Sampling for Water/Wastewater Treatment Operators: Concepts, Procedures, and Plant Application

Overview:

This session provides a comprehensive overview of water and wastewater sampling practices using Standard Methods, regulatory requirements (NPDES, CWA, SDWA), and field-tested techniques. Learn how to minimize sampling errors, ensure defensible data, and apply plant-specific sampling plans for better process control and compliance

• Sampling types: grab, composite, flow/time proportionate
• Procedures for chlorine, ammonia, nitrates, and solids
• Sampling equipment and calibration terms
• Chain of custody, logbooks, and analysis sheets
• Lab safety, interferences, and audit readiness
• Real-world case studies on poor vs. proper sampling

Why you should Attend:

• Want to avoid permit violations due to improper sample handling?
• Need to train new operators on grab vs. composite sampling?
• Unsure which tools, reagents, and techniques are best for nutrient or chlorine testing?
• Looking to improve lab readiness for DEP, EPA, or state audits?

This training blends technical instruction with practical case studies from drinking water and wastewater plants alike.

Areas Covered in the Session:

• Grab vs. composite sample strategies
• Nutrient testing: ammonia, nitrites, nitrates
• Chlorine testing methods and residual concepts
• Solids inventory (TSS, VSS, MLSS, MLVSS)
• pH, alkalinity, and turbidity protocols
• Lab tools: spectrophotometers, burets, pipettes, meters
• Chain of custody and sample documentation
• Equipment cleaning, calibration, and storage best practices
• Tips for daily sampling plans and internal audits

Who Will Benefit:

• Water and Wastewater Operators (Class A, B, C)
• Drinking Water and Distribution Operators
• Environmental Lab Technicians & Analysts
• Utility Supervisors and Water Quality Managers
• Apprentices and Operator Certification Candidates
• Public Works & Municipal Utility Staff