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Course Overview:
The Subsurface Operator School is a comprehensive 3-day training program designed for individuals involved in inspecting and maintaining subsurface wastewater systems that require a Subsurface Wastewater Operator. This course aims to equip participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to effectively manage and operate these systems. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from ethical and legal issues to advanced system components, ensuring a thorough understanding of subsurface wastewater treatment.
Eligibility Requirements for Certification (Anyone can take the class):
An applicant for certification as a Subsurface Water Pollution Control System Operator shall have successfully
completed approved training for subsurface water pollution controls system operators and shall have met one of the following:
(1) have one year of actual experience in the operation of a subsurface water pollution control system;
(2) be a graduate of a two or four-year college or university and have taken and passed six courses in the basic sciences;
(3) be a private homeowner who intends to operate only his or her own domestic subsurface water pollution control system; or
(4) hold a valid Grade II or higher biological water pollution control system operator certification.
AGENDA
Day 1: Introduction, Legal Framework, and Safety
Ethical and Legal Issues of Operator Certification
Professional ethics and integrity in subsurface system operation
State and local regulations for obtaining and maintaining operator certification
Roles and responsibilities of certified operators, ORCs, and system owners
Disciplinary actions and consequences for non-compliance
Introduction to Wastewater
Types of wastewater: domestic, high strength, and industrial process wastewater
Major constituents in wastewater and their environmental impacts
Quantitative measurements and standards for wastewater constituents
Safety in Subsurface System Operation
Health and safety hazards associated with subsurface systems
Precautions, procedures, and equipment to minimize risks
Basic electrical and plumbing safety concerns
Subsurface Wastewater Systems Overview
Types of subsurface wastewater systems
Site conditions warranting the use of subsurface systems and innovative approvals
Day 2: System Components and Advanced Topics
Subsurface System Components: Collection and Primary Treatment
Evaluation and maintenance of collection systems
Operation and maintenance requirements for various tank types (grease, septic, pump tanks)
Advanced or Secondary Pretreatment
Types of advanced pretreatment systems permitted in NC
Operation, maintenance, sampling, and repair protocols for pretreatment systems
Distribution Methods in Subsurface Systems
Types and use of distribution methods: distribution boxes, pressure manifolds, drip irrigation
Flow control and distribution components: valves, pipes, pumps
Dispersal and Soil Treatment
Types of trenches and dispersal media
Effects of weather and human actions on soil and system performance
Soil properties and hydrologic processes affecting subsurface systems
Practical Session
Hands-on operation and maintenance of various system types
Field demonstrations of flow control and distribution methods
Day 3: Monitoring, Maintenance, and Records
Monitoring and Sampling
Sampling requirements and protocols
Interpreting results to ensure proper system function
Groundwater monitoring and other required monitoring types
Math for Subsurface System Operators
Basic mathematical functions for system calculations
Practical exercises on tank volume, flow rates, and system performance data
System Operation and Maintenance
Reading and understanding system plans, specifications, and permits
Routine preventative and special system inspections
Developing management plans for existing systems
Records, Reports, and Contracts
Importance of maintaining system permits and documents
Scheduling inspections, filing reports, and executing contracts
Proper execution of contracts with system owners
Final Review
Comprehensive review of course material
Final Q&A session
Distribution of certificates
Course Highlights
Hands-On Operation and Maintenance:
Throughout the course, participants will engage in hands-on operation and maintenance activities for various types of subsurface wastewater systems. These practical sessions, including field demonstrations, will provide real-world experience and enhance the learning process, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to handle the challenges of subsurface system operation and maintenance.
Field Demonstrations:
Field demonstrations will be conducted to illustrate key concepts and provide practical experience in system evaluation, flow control, and distribution methods. These demonstrations will reinforce theoretical knowledge and allow participants to observe and participate in the operation and maintenance of subsurface systems in a controlled environment.