Water Waste Treatment Operator Certification Exam: 1000+ Questions and Answers, Exams of Nursing

Download Water Waste Treatment Operator Certification Exam: 1000+ Questions and Answers and more Exams Nursing in PDF only on Docsity! 1 WATER WASTE TREATMENT OPERATOR CERTIFICATION EXAM 2023-2024 ACTUAL EXAM 1000+ QUESTIONS AND CORRECT DETAILED ANSWERS WITH ALREADY GRADED A The Safe Drinking Water Act was adopted in 1974 to protect? Both ground and surface drinking water EPA allows the State of Indiana to administer and enforce drinking water regulations because: A. Indiana has applied for Primacy from EPA B. Indiana has been granted Primacy by EPA C. Indiana's regulations are at least as stringent as federal regulations D. All of the above D. All of the above A factory provides drinking water from its well for 35 employees Monday through Friday most weeks of the year. What kind of public water supply is it? A. Community B. Non-community C. Non-transient Non-community D. None of the above C. Non-transient Non-community A community of 1,500 people pumps water directly from 2 wells into a 25,000- gallon standpipe. How would IDEM classify the distribution system? A. DSS B. DSM C. DSL D. WT-6 A. DSS A community of 1,500 people pumps water directly from 2 wells into a 25,000- gallon stand pipe decides to add Chlorine for disinfection of its water. How would IDEM classify the water treatment system? A. WT1 B. WT2 2 C. WT5 D. DSS B. WT2 How does an operator become an operator-in-responsible-charge? A. The operator petitions the Commissioner of IDEM B. The operator is designated by the owner or governing body of a water treatment plant or water distribution system C. The operator is appointed by the IDEM field inspector D. None of the above B. The operator is designated by the owner or governing body of a water treatment plant or water distribution system An Operator-in-Training (OIT) may serve as operator in responsible charge. A. True B. False B. False A grandparented operator must fulfill the same continuing education requirements as an operator who has received certification by examination. A. True B. False A. True Wellhead protection is mandatory for which type of public water system? A. Community B. Noncommunity C. Both of the above D. None of the above A. Community IDEM will issue a Notice of Violation if a water system operator, or other official, contacts the agency too frequently. A. True B. False B. False What is the minimum number of coliform samples all water systems must collect each month? A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4 A. 1 A foot of head (water height) produces how many pounds per square inch of pressure? 5 C. 8 years D. 10 years D. 10 years A 2-inch water meter is more accurate at very low flows than a 5/8"x3/4" meter. A. True B. False B. False Nutating and piston disk water meters are examples of displacement meters. A. True B. False A. True Turbine water meters are generally a better choice for very high flows than displacement meters. A. True B. False A. True What is the minimum desired water flow velocity when flushing a distribution system? A. 1 foot per second B. 2.5 feet per second C. 10 feet per second D. 25 feet per second B. 2.5 feet per second A water system's Sample Site Plan should be: A. Kept on file at the water system and available for review by IDEM field personnel B. Sent to the Drinking Water Branch for review and filing C. Updated regularly to reflect actual practices D. All of the above D. All of the above An open distribution system booster pumps to a higher-pressure zone that is closed to the atmosphere. A. True B. False B. False A back-siphonage backflow is caused by: A. A drop in upstream pressure B. An increase in downstream pressure C. A negative (vacuum or partial vacuum) pressure D. Both A and B, above 6 C. A negative (vacuum or partial vacuum) pressure What is the best backflow control device? A. Air gap B. Double check valve C. Reduced pressure principle D. Pressure vacuum breaker A. Air gap A waist belt and rope are the best safety equipment when climbing a water tank. A. True B. False B. False Which is the best method for a thorough tank inspection? A. Microwave active radio B. Dry C. Remotely-operated vehicle D. Diver B. Dry What causes corrosion in a water tank? A. Radio frequency leakage from cell phone systems B. Chipped paint on the exterior of the tank C. Poor electrical grounding of the tank base D. Electrical current flow between dissimilar materials D. Electrical current flow between dissimilar materials What is a snubber? A. The valve that controls the height of the water in the tank B. A small fitting that prevents rapid pressure changes C. A grease fitting D. Part of a cathodic protection system B. A small fitting that prevents rapid pressure changes Ponding near a tank overflow pipe can cause a cross connection. A. True B. False A. True When leasing antenna space on your water tank, which of the following should you do? A. Never accept the radio system's "standard agreement" B. Always employ a qualified engineer to review plans and inspect construction C. Never allow cables to interfere with climbing and safety systems D. All of the above D. All of the above 7 The "3 Ds" of security are: A. Deter, detect, delay B. Detect, disable, detain C. Disinfect, discolor, drain D. None of the above A. Deter, detect, delay What is ground water? A. The water found in an aquifer B. The water found in lakes and streams C. The water contained in a ground-level storage tank D. The water contained in an elevated storage tank A. The water found in an aquifer What is the first step in developing a Wellhead Protection Plan? A. Establish a Local Planning Team B. Develop a management plan for potential sources of contaminants C. Hire a certified professional engineer D. Apply to IDEM for a Wellhead Protection permit A. Establish a Local Planning Team What is the maximum average daily pumpage allowed for a water system to use the fixed-radius wellhead protection delineation method? A. 25,000 gallons per day B. 50,000 gallons per day C. 75,000 gallons per day D. 100,000 gallons per day D. 100,000 gallons per day The standard isolation area (sanitary setback) for a well without automatic disinfection is: A. 50 feet B. 100 feet C. 200 feet D. 500 feet C. 200 feet With most ion exchange water softeners, what happens to sodium levels in the finished water? A. Sodium levels increase B. Sodium levels decrease C. Sodium levels stay about the same D. Sodium is exchanged for copper A. Sodium levels increase 10 B. Lead C. Calcium Carbonate D. Iron D. Iron Corrosion is: A. The buildup of crystalline mineral formations B. The accumulation of copper and lead in a water heater C. The migration of metal ions into water from surrounding pipes D. The primary cause of mud balls in a pressure filter C. The migration of metal ions into water from surrounding pipes Water filtration removes impurities by what means? A. Adsorption B. Mechanical C. Ion exchange D. Both A and B above D. Both A and B above Anthracite (coal) cap layers are used in water filters to assist in the removal of what? A. Oxygen (O2) B. pH (0-14) C. Hydrogen (H) D. Iron (Fe) D. Iron (Fe) Media expansion is the best guide for backwashing pressure filters. A. True B. False B. False Lime-soda softening lowers the pH of water it treats. A. True B. False B. False Reverse osmosis can reduce levels of: A. Arsenic B. Lead C. Pesticides D. All of the above D. All of the above Semipermeable membranes are used in reverse osmosis because they are tough and can take a lot of abuse. 11 A. True B. False B. False Your water system water is very hard (>40 GPG). Which is not a good choice for softening the water? A. Reverse osmosis B. Ion exchange C. Lime-soda D. None of the above A. Reverse osmosis In normal operation (treatment mode), a household water softener, work by: A. Exchanging salt for hardness B. Exchanging hardness for salt C. Filtering out hardness D. All of the above A. Exchanging salt for hardness High dissolved oxygen in the raw water improves the operation of ion exchange water softeners. A. True B. False B. False Reading tea leaves can be fun. Can you learn anything about your water quality from your customer's tea? A. Yes B. No A. Yes Characteristics of surface water include: A. Temperature changes B. pH changes C. Water level changes D. All of the above D. All of the above Surface waters are subject to both point source and non-point source pollution. A. True B. False A. True Cold water usually speeds up chemical reactions. A. True B. False B. False 12 Giardia lamblia is found in your well water. Your water source may be: A. Suffering from iron bacteria infestation B. Under the direct influence of surface water C. In need of chlorination D. Polluted with pesticides B. Under the direct influence of surface water Flocculation creates coagulants. A. True B. False B. False Which of the following is a coagulant? A. Aluminum sulfate (alum) B. Ferric chloride C. Neither A nor B above D. Both A and B above D. Both A and B above pH refers to: A. Particles of Helium B. Pounds of Hydrogen C. Percentage of Hydrogen D. Potential of Hydrogen D. Potential of Hydrogen Pure water has a neutral pH of: A. 0 B. 5 C. 7 D. 14 C. 7 This device is a jar tester. What is it used for? A. Evaluating water treatment chemicals before adding them to the water system B. Biological assay C. Meeting IDEM laboratory control regulations D. Mixing chemicals at 25% concentration A. Evaluating water treatment chemicals before adding them to the water system What is a cross connection? A cross connection is defined as any physical arrangement whereby a public water supply is connected, directly or indirectly, with any secondary water supply system, sewer drain, conduit, pool, storage reservoir, plumbing fixture, boilers or other device which contains or may contain any water, contaminated liquid, or other waste of 15 refuse dumps, animal feedlots, septic tanks, and decaying plant debris. Wells closer to sources of nitrate and shallow wells are more likely to experience nitrate contamination. Monitoring Frequency for Nitrate Community and Nontransient Noncommunity Public Water Systems Ground Water Systems: Base nitrate monitoring for community and nontransient noncommunity public water systems using ground water is required annually. If any result is greater than or equal to 5 mg/l (50% of the MCL for nitrate), the system must conduct quarterly monitoring. Quarterly monitoring must be continued for at least four consecutive quarters. If results are determined to be "reliably and consistently below" the nitrate MCL (10 mg/l), the system may be returned to annual monitoring. Future annual samples must then be taken in the quarter which previously yielded the highest result. Surface Water Systems: Base monitoring for community and nontransient noncommunity public watersystems using surface water is required quarterly. The nitrate monitoring frequency for surface water systems may be reduced to annual if four consecutive quarterly monitoring results for the system are below 5 mg/l. Future annual samples must be taken in the quarter which previously yielded the highest result. Transient Noncommunity Public Water Systems Base monitoring for transient noncommunity public water systems (supplied by either ground or surface water) is required annually. If the average of any annual sample result and a confirmation sample is greater than 20 mg/l, the system is required to conduct quarterly monitoring for nitrate (see MCL exceedance discussion below). When was the Safe Drinking Water Act Adopted? 1974 What is Action Level? The level of a contaminant which, if exceeded, requires treatment or other action that a water system must follow What is Acute Contaminant? A harmful substance that has a rapid effect on humans and/or animals. What are Aesthetic Qualities of water? The taste, odor and appearance of drinking water. What is an Air Gap? The unobstructed vertical distance between the discharge end of a pipeline supplied from a public water supply and the overflow rim of the receiving portion of the customer's water system. What is Alkalinity? The capacity of water to neutralize acids; that is, the measure of how much acid can be added to a liquid without causing a significant change in pH. What is Anthracite? A dense, shiny coal that has high carbon content and little volatile matter and is often used on top of sand water treatment filters for iron removal. 16 What is an Aquifier? The saturated underground formation that will yield usable amounts of water to a well or spring. The formation could be sand, gravel, limestone or sandstone. The water in an aquifer is called groundwater. • Confined aquifer is the saturated formation between low permeability layers that restrict movement of water vertically into or out of the saturated formation. Water is confined under pressure similar to water in a pipeline. In some areas confined aquifers produce water without pumps (flowing artesian well). • Unconfined aquifer (water table aquifer) is the saturated formation in which the upper surface fluctuates with addition or subtraction of water. The upper surface of an unconfined aquifer is called the water table. Water, contained in an unconfined aquifer, is free to move laterally in response to differences in the water table elevations. What is Arsenic? A poisonous metallic element that comes from erosion of natural deposits, found primarily in rocks, soil, water, and plants. Also comes from runoff of glass and electronics production wastes. Arsenic exposure has been linked to skin damage, circulatory system problems, and an increased risk of cancer. What is the Arsenic Rule? U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a rule that applies to all community water systems and non-transient, non-community water systems, which sets the maximum contaminant level of arsenic at 10 milligrams per liter. What are AS-Built Maps? Maps or drawings depicting the actual installation of pipes and equipment. Also called record drawings. As-builts often differ from original plans. What is Asbestos? Inorganic contaminant from old insulation, the decay of asbestos cement in water mains and the erosion of natural deposits. Potential health effects include increased risk of lung tumors and intestinal polyps. What is Backflow? The flow of water or contaminants into the public water supply distribution system from a source other than the public water supply. Two acts are necessary for backflow to occur. (1) There must be a link between potable water and another source. This physical arrangement is called a cross connection; and (2) There must also be a pressure difference between the two sources. As water follows the path of least resistance, it will always flow from a higher to a lower pressure. Therefore, a decrease in system pressure or an increase in pressure from the customer side could cause backflow. What is backflow prevention? The best defense for backflow is a proactive backflow prevention program requiring backflow preventers in areas where backflow can occur. What is a Backflow Prevention Device? 17 Installed at the water meter, will reduce water pressure and will change the hydraulics of the customer's water system. What is Backwash? The up flow or counter-current flow of water through a filter or ion-exchange medium, lifting the mineral bed and flushing away to the drain the particles of foreign matter that have been filtered from the water supply during the filter cycle. What are bacteria? Single-cell microorganisms that typically reproduce by cell division. Although usually classed as plants, bacteria contain no chlorophyll. Many different types of bacterial organisms are often found in drinking water. Most municipally treated water is generally free of bacteria due to the addition of chlorine. Some forms of cyst type viruses have a degree of immunity to chlorine due to the cocoonlike shell around the virus. These types of organisms such as Cryptosporidium, Giardia Cyst and Giardia Lamblia, and have a physical size of three to seven microns and can be effectively removed by sub-micron filtration. Some bacteria are helpful to humans, others harmful. What are Beta particles and photon emitters? A radionuclide from the decay of natural and manmade deposits. Can cause an increased risk of cancer. What are Biological activity reactions tests (BART)? Gives an indication or biological fouling, including iron bacteria, slime forming bacteria, and sulfate reducing bacteria. What is a Boil order (Advisory)? A directive issued to water system users to boil their water because of known or suspected bacteriological contamination. What is a Booster pump? A pump installed on a pipeline to increase water pressure or flow. What is Bromate? A byproduct of drinking water disinfection. Can cause an increased risk of cancer. What is Capacity development? The process of determining the managerial, financial and technical capacities of a water system. What is Chain of Custody? A written record that shows who handled a sample over what periods of time from the beginning to the end of the sampling and testing process. What is a Check valve? The check valve in a backflow preventor will close the system. What are Chloramines (as CI2)? Comes from a water additive used to control microbes. Can potentially cause eye/nose irritation, stomach discomfort, and anemia. What is Chlorine (as CI2)? 20 four test cocks, one upstream of the four valves, and one between each of the four check and shut-off valves. What is Downstream? The direction of flow when only the public water supply is supplying water through the customer water system and backflow is not occurring. What is an Action Level? The level of a contaminant which, if exceeded, requires treatment or other action that a water system must follow. What is Acute Containment? A harmful substance that has a rapid effect on humans and/or animals.. What are the Aesthetic qualities of water? The taste, odor and appearance of drinking water. What is an Air Gap? The unobstructed vertical distance between the discharge end of a pipeline supplied from a public water supply and the overflow rim of the receiving portion of the customer's water system. What is Alkalinity? The capacity of water to neutralize acids; that is, the measure of how much acid can be added to a liquid without causing a significant change in pH. What is Anthracite? A dense, shiny coal that has high carbon content and little volatile matter and is often used on top of sand water treatment filters for iron removal. What is an Aquifer? The saturated underground formation that will yield usable amounts of water to a well or spring. The formation could be sand, gravel, limestone or sandstone. The water in an aquifer is called groundwater. What are the two types of Aquifers? Confined and Unconfined What is a Confined Aquifer? The saturated formation between low permeability layers that restrict movement of water vertically into or out of the saturated formation. Water is confined under pressure similar to water in a pipeline. In some areas confined aquifers produce water without pumps (flowing artesian well). What is an Unconfined Acquifer? (water table aquifer) is the saturated formation in which the upper surface fluctuates with addition or subtraction of water. The 21 upper surface of an unconfined aquifer is called the water table. Water, contained in an unconfined aquifer, is free to move laterally in response to differences in the water table elevations. What is Arsenic? A poisonous metallic element that comes from erosion of natural deposits, found primarily in rocks, soil, water, and plants. Also comes from runoff of glass and electronics production wastes. Arsenic exposure has been linked to skin damage, circulatory system problems, and an increased risk of cancer. What is the Arsenic Rule? U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a rule that applies to all community water systems and non-transient, non-community water systems, which sets the maximum contaminant level of arsenic at 10 milligrams per liter. What are AS-Built-Maps? Maps or drawings depicting the actual installation of pipes and equipment. Also called record drawings. As-builts often differ from original plans. What is Asbestos? Inorganic contaminant from old insulation, the decay of asbestos cement in water mains and the erosion of natural deposits. Potential health effects include increased risk of lung tumors and intestinal polyps. What is Backfilling? To refill an excavated area with removed earth; or the material itself that is used to refill an excavated area. What is Backflow? The flow of water or contaminants into the public water supply distribution system from a source other than the public water supply. Two acts are necessary for backflow to occur. (1) There must be a link between potable water and another source. This physical arrangement is called a cross connection; and (2) There must also be a pressure difference between the two sources. As water follows the path of least resistance, it will always flow from a higher to a lower pressure. Therefore, a decrease in system pressure or an increase in pressure from the customer side could cause backflow. What is Backflow Prevention? The best defense for backflow is a proactive backflow prevention program requiring backflow preventers in areas where backflow can occur. What is a Backflow Prevention Device? 22 Installed at the water meter, will reduce water pressure and will change the hydraulics of the customer's water system. What is Backwashing? The up flow or counter-current flow of water through a filter or ion-exchange medium, lifting the mineral bed and flushing away to the drain the particles of foreign matter that have been filtered from the water supply during the filter cycle. What is Bacteria? Single-cell microorganisms that typically reproduce by cell division. Although usually classed as plants, bacteria contain no chlorophyll. Many different types of bacterial organisms are often found in drinking water. Most municipally treated water is generally free of bacteria due to the addition of chlorine. Some forms of cyst type viruses have a degree of immunity to chlorine due to the cocoonlike shell around the virus. These types of organisms such as Cryptosporidium, Giardia Cyst and Giardia Lamblia, and have a physical size of three to seven microns and can be effectively removed by sub-micron filtration. Some bacteria are helpful to humans, others harmful. What are Beta Particles and Photon Emitters? A radionuclide from the decay of natural and manmade deposits. Can cause an increased risk of cancer. What is the BIological Activity Reactions Test (BART)? Gives an indication of biological fouling, including iron bacteria, slime forming bacteria, and sulfate reducing bacteria. What is a Boil Order (Advisory)? A directive issued to water system users to boil their water because of known or suspected bacteriological contamination. What is a Booster Pump? A pump installed on a pipeline to increase water pressure or flow. What is Bromate? A byproduct of drinking water disinfection. Can cause an increased risk of cancer. What is Capacity Development? The process of determining the managerial, financial and technical capacities of a water system. What is Chain of Custody? A written record that shows who handled a sample over what periods of time from the beginning to the end of the sampling and testing process. What is a Check Valve? The check valve in a backflow preventor will close the system. What are Chloramines (as CI2)? 25 danger or health hazard to customers of the public water supply should backflow occur. What is Cryptosporidium? A microorganism found in human and animal fecal waste. Can cause gastrointestinal illness (e.g. diarrhea, vomiting, cramps). What is a Customer Service Line? The pipeline from the public water supply to the: (1) First tap, fixture, receptacle, or other point of customer water use; or (2) Secondary source of supply or pipeline branch in a building. What is a Customer Water System? All piping, fixtures, and appurtenances, including secondary sources of supply, used by a customer to convey water on his premises. What is the Disinfectant By Products Rule (DPBR)? The purpose of this rule is to reduce public exposure to three chemical disinfectants (chlorine, chloramines, and chlorine dioxide) and many disinfection by- products (total trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids, chlorite, and bromate). What is Disinfectant Residual? Lingering disinfectant in the water distribution system to kill any other bacteria that might enter the distribution system later. What are Displacement Meters? These are used for measurement of low and intermediate flows, like domestic use applications. They are typically available in sizes from 5/8" through 2". What is a Double Check Valve Assembly? A type of backflow prevention device. This device or assembly is composed of two tightly closing shut-off valves surrounding two independently acting check valves, with four test cocks, one upstream of the four valves, and one between each of the four check and shut-off valves. What does Downstream refer to? The direction of flow when only the public water supply is supplying water through the customer water system and backflow is not occurring. What is a Drainage Basin? Area of land surface, which slopes down and receives water from rivulets, books, creeks, and streams. What is Drawdown? The lowering of the groundwater surface caused by withdrawal or pumping of water from a well. It is the difference 26 between the static water level and the pumping water level in a well pumped at a constant flow rate. What is the Drinking Water Branch (IDEM)? There are four (4) sections within the Drinking Water Branch, which perform functions related to monitoring and compliance with regulations, and technical assistance to public water systems. What are Drinking Water Standards? Drinking water standards apply to all public water systems, which provide water to at least 15 connections or 25 persons at least 60 days out of the year. What is E. Coli? E. coli microorganisms come from human and animal fecal waste. Can cause gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps). What are Emergency Orders? IDEM enforcement tool which calls for immediate action to stop activities that threaten human or environmental health. This is a temporary order that expires 90 days from its issuance. What does EPA stand for? Environmental Protection Agency What is Evaporation? The conversion of water from a liquid into a gas. What is Feasible defined as in the Safe Drinking Water Act? The level that may be achieved with the use of the best technology, treatment techniques, and other means which U.S. EPA finds (after examination for efficiency under field conditions) are viable, taking cost into consideration. What is Fecal Coliform? Fecal coliform microorganisms come from human and animal fecal waste. Can cause gastrointestinal illness (e.g. diarrhea, vomiting, cramps). What is the FIFRA? Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act What is the Filter Backwash Recycle Rule (FBRR)? The purpose of this rule is to require system to review their recycle practices and, where appropriate, work with the State to make any necessary changes to recycle practices that may compromise microbial control. This FBRR applies to all public water systems that (1) use surface or ground water under the direct influence of surface water; (2) utilize direct or conventional filtration processes; and (3) recycle spent filter backwash water, sludge thickener supernatant, or liquids from dewatering processes. What is Filter Profile? 27 Graphical representation of an individual filter performance. What is a Fire Service Meter? These meters are used to measure water from fire lines. There are several types of fire line meters. Some measure all of the water going through the fire line in the event of a fire - these are typically large turbo meters. Some only measure a portion of the water going through the fire line -- this is called proportional metering. Some only measure low flows of water used when there isn't a fire - these are called detector meters. There are also fire meters available that can measure both low flow domestic use and high flow fire fighting use. These are really large, parallel type compounds. They consist of a large turbo meter, a change over valve, and a 1-1/2" or 2" displacement or turbo meter to measure the domestic use. What is the Fixed Radius Wellhead Protection Plan? A 3,000 foot radius Wellhead Protection Area delineation that may be used by qualifying water systems that pump less than 100,000 gallons of water per day. What is Fluoride? Inorganic contaminant which comes from a water additive that is used to promote strong teeth, erosion of natural deposits, and discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories. Can cause dental fluorosis (staining) and skeletal fluorosis (bone damage). What is Flushing? To run large quantities of water through an item (e.g., water main). What is Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)? Media often placed on top of filter to help remove taste and odor from the water. What is Giardia Lamblia? A microorganism found in human and animal fecal waste. Can cause Gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps). What is the Ground Water Rule (GWR)? U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rule to protect public health from waterborne microorganisms present in ground water sources (i.e., sources unaffected by surface water). The GWR specifies the appropriate use of disinfection in ground water and establishes a strategy to identify ground water systems at high risk for contamination. What does GWUDI stand for? Groundwater Under Direct Influence (of Surface Water) What is Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC)? Measures a range of bacteria that are naturally present in the environment. HPC has no health effects, but can indicate how effective treatment is at controlling microorganisms. 30 The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goals do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants. What is Meter Maintenance Program? Scheduled program whereby meters are tested and repaired before there is a noticeable drop in consumption. What is Milligrams Per Liter (Mg/L) Equivalent to? Parts Per Million (PPM) What does MRO stand for? Monthly Report of Operations of Water Systems. What does MSDS stand for? Material safety data sheets; on hazardous products at site. It is available to all employees. What are Multi-Jet Meters? These are used for measurement of low and intermediate flows, like domestic use applications. They are typically available in sizes from 5/8" through 2". What is a municipally owned water system? A municipally owned water system is a public water system that is owned and operated by a local government or urban political unit with corporate status. Normally the mayor or water board is the policy making body. What is the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR)? These are legally enforceable standards that apply to public water systems. Primary standards protect public health by limiting the levels of contaminants in drinking water. What are National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (NSDWR)? These are non-enforceable guidelines regulating contaminants that may cause cosmetic effects (such as skin or tooth discoloration) or aesthetic effects (such as taste, odor, or color) in drinking water. U.S. EPA recommends secondary standards to water systems, but does not require systems to comply. However, states may choose to adopt them as enforceable standards. What is Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU)? The unit that measures turbidity. What is Nitrate? Inorganic contaminant from runoff from fertilizer use, leaching from septic tanks and sewage systems, and erosion of natural deposits. Converts to Nitrite that can cause Methemoglobinemia. What is Nitrite? Inorganic contaminant from runoff from fertilizer use, leaching from septic tanks and sewage systems, and erosion of 31 natural deposits. Can cause Methemoglobinemia ("blue baby syndrome") in infants less than 6 months in age. This is life threatening without immediate medical attention. Symptoms: infant looks blue and has shortness of breath. What is a Noncommunity Water System (NCWS)? A public water system that serves the public, but does not serve the same people year- round. There are two types of noncommunity systems: Nontransient Noncommunity Water Systems and Transient Noncommunity Water Systems. What are Nontransient Noncommunity Water Systems (NTNCWS)? A public water system that serves the same 25 or more people more than six months per year, but not year-round. For example, a school with its own water supply is considered a nontransient noncommunity system. What is a Notice of Violation (NOV)? Issued to a public water system in violation. Invites the system to attend a settlement conference to discuss solutions. After receiving the Notice of Violation, the violator has a 60-day settlement period to enter into an Agreed Order with IDEM. What does O&M stand for? Operations and Maintenance What is the Office of Enforcement (OE)? If initial investigation does not resolve a violation, then IDEM's Office of enforcement issues a Notice of Violation (NOV) to the public water system inviting them to attend a settlement conference to discuss solutions. What is the Office of Environmental Adjudication? If a violator appeals an IDEM Commissioner's Order, then this department reviews the case prior to a hearing. What is an Operator Certification? U.S. EPA finalized minimum national guidance for operator certification in February 1999, with additional requirements proposed in July 2000. Prior to the development of national guidelines, certification of drinking water system operators had been required only at the state level, with standards varying widely from state to state and many programs exempting small water systems. The recent national standards apply to all community water systems and nontransient, noncommunity water systems, regardless of system size. What is Outlet Structure? Controls the release of stored water. 32 What is a Pathogen? An agent that causes disease, especially a living microorganism such as a bacterium. What does Pentachlorophenol mean? Organic contaminant from wood preserving factories discharge. Can cause damage to liver and kidneys, have adverse affects on the reproductive system, and an increased risk of cancer. What is a Perennial Stream? Continuously flowing streams that are supplied both by surface runoff and springs, and by ground water seepage. What is pH? A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, numerically equal to 7 for neutral solutions, increasing with increasing alkalinity and decreasing with increasing acidity. The pH scale usually ranges from 0 to 14. What is a Picloram? Organic contaminant from herbicide runoff. Can cause damage to liver and kidneys. What is a Pitot Gauge used for? Measures the pressure of flowing water. What is Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB's)? Organic contaminant from landfill runoff and discharge of waste chemicals. Can cause skin changes, thymus gland problems, immune deficiencies, reproductive difficulties, nervous system problems, and an increased risk of cancer. What is Parts Per Million (PPM)? A measure of concentration of a dissolved material in terms of a mass ratio (milligrams per kilogram, mg/kg). One part of a contaminant is present for each million parts of water. For water analysis, parts per million often is presented as a mass per unit volume (milligrams per liter, mg/l). There are one million milligrams of water in one liter. What is a Pressure Vacuum Breaker? A type of backflow prevention device. A device or assembly containing an independently operating internal loaded check valve and an independently operating loaded air inlet valve located on the downstream side of the check valve for relieving a vacuum or partial vacuum in a pipeline. What is Primacy? Primary enforcement authority granted by U.S. EPA to states that meet certain requirements, including setting regulations that are at least as stringent as U.S. EPA's. Indiana has been granted primacy. What is a Privately Owned Water System? 35 Federal funds program available to states for water system infrastructure improvements for regulatory compliance. What is the Safe Drinking Water Act? This law established national drinking water standards that were to be administered and enforced by State agencies. The SDWA was originally passed by Congress in 1974 to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. The law was amended in 1986 and 1996 and requires many actions to protect drinking water and its sources. The 1996 amendments greatly enhanced the existing law by recognizing source water protection, operator training, funding for water system improvements, and public right- to-know as important components of safe drinking water. The SDWA applies to every public water system in the United States. What is a Sanitary Survey? On-site IDEM review to inspect the water source, facilities, equipment, wellhead protection information, operation, maintenance, monitoring compliance and other important aspects of a public water system. What is a Secondary Source of Supply? Any well, spring, cistern, lake, stream, or other water source, intake structure, pumps, piping, treatment units, tanks, and appurtenances used, either continually or intermittently, to supply water other than from the public water supply to the customer, including tanks used to store water to be used only for firefighting, even though the water contained therein is supplied from the public water supply. What is Shock Chlorination? The addition of chlorine for disinfecting a water supply system including the well, and all distribution pipelines. Shock chlorination is recommended when coliform bacteria are detected, or after system repairs. Treated water, with a concentration of at least 200 ppm, is pumped throughout the distribution system and allowed to set for at least 24 hours before flushing with untreated water. What is Shoring Equipment? Equipment installed in trenches to prevent the collapse of the trench. What is a Significant Water Withdrawal Facility? Any groundwater supply with a withdrawal capacity of more than 100,000 gallons per day. This supply must be registered with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. What is Specific Capacity? Expresses the productivity of a well. Specific capacity is obtained by dividing the well discharge rate by the well drawdown while pumping. It is calculated by dividing the 36 production of the well in gallons per minute by the feet of drawdown between the static water level and the pumping water level. Water levels need to stabilize before measurements are made. The gallons per minute should be the normal production rate of the well and pumping equipment. A 1,000gpm well has a 40 foot drawdown so its specific capacity is 25gpm per foot of drawdown. What is Static Water Level? The water level in a well located in an unconfined aquifer when the pump is not operating. The static water level is the surface of the water-bearing formation and typically is synonymous with the water table. What are Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs)? Environmental improvement projects that violators can perform to further offset penalties. What is a Supplier of Water? Any person who owns or operates a public water supply. What is Toluene? Organic contaminant from petroleum factories discharge. Can cause damage to kidneys, liver, nervous system, and circulatory system. What is Total Coliform? Coliforms are naturally present in the environment. Fecal Coliforms and E. Coli come from human and animal fecal waste. Total Coliform are used as in indicator that other potential harmful bacteria may be present. What is a Transient Noncommunity Water System (TNCWS)? Serves the public, but not the same individuals for more than six months. For example, a rest area or campground may be considered a transient noncommunity water system. What is Transmissivity? The capacity of an aquifer to transmit water. It is dependent on the water-transmitting characteristics of the saturated formation (hydraulic conductivity) and the saturated thickness. For example, sand and gravel formations typically have greater hydraulic conductivities than sandstone formations. The sand and gravel will have a greater transmissivity if both formations are the same thickness. What is Transpiration? The evaporation of water from plants. What does Treatment Technique refer to? A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water. What are Trihalomethanes (TTHM)? A byproduct of drinking water disinfection. Can cause liver, kidney, or central nervous system problems, as well as increase the risk of cancer. What is Turbidity? 37 A measure of the cloudiness of water. It is used to indicate water quality and filtration effectiveness. Higher turbidity levels are often associated with higher levels of disease-causing microorganisms such as viruses, parasites, and some bacteria. These microorganisms can come from soil runoff. They can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. What are Turbine Meters? These meters are used to measure intermediate and high flows like commercial user with high volumes of water, or to measure the water leaving the water plant. They are typically available in sizes from 2" through 20". What is Underground Injection Control (UIC)? Program to control the injection of wastes into ground water. What is Uni-Directional Flushing? A method of water main flushing wherein valves are closed to create artificial dead ends, thereby forcing water to flow from only one direction. (Dead End Flushing) What are Viruses? Microorganisms found in human and animal fecal waste. Can cause gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, cramps). What is the Water Table? The upper level of a saturated formation where the water is at atmospheric pressure. The water table is the upper surface of an unconfined aquifer. What is Wellhead Protection Area (WHPA)? The land surface and subsurface area surrounding a wellfield through which water, or contaminants, can enter the ground and move toward the wellfield within a specified time period. What is Wellhead Protection Plan? A written plan to protect wellhead from reasonably foreseeable potential sources of contaminants. What is Wilson's Disease? A disease caused by the body's inability to metabolize Copper. What is The PRIMARY health risk associated with volatile organic chemicals (VOCs)? Cancer A public water system (PWS) is required to monitor for vinyl chloride if what? The system is groundwater. What is the best available technology (BAT) for removal of all regulated volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) from drinking water? Packed Tower Aeration 40 Within the first 1 to 5 Seconds When should a filter be backwashed? High head, turbidity breakthrough, or designated hours What does CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate) do? Decreases Corrosion What is the Most Important test to indicate proper sedimentation? Turbidity Test What is considered and excellent zeta potential? -1 to -4 What test is used for Residual Chlorine> DPD Test What is a major part of a turbidimeter? Light Source What parameter is used to indicate clarity of water? Turbidity What does pH measure? The concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. Free chlorine residual includes what? OCL- and HOCL How many log removal for viruses? 4 log 99.99% & 3 log 99.9% for Giardia Highest concentration of hypochlorous acid occurs at what PH? pH of 5 What fluoride comes in solution form? Fluorosilic Acid What is the chemical formula for bicarbonate? HCO-3 Capability of water to resist change in PH is called______? Buffering Capacity In a coliform presence-absence test a sample should be: The sample should be incubated for 24 and 48 hours at 35 C or 95 F Optimal fluoride concentration in drinking water is set in relation to the _______? Annual average maximum daily air temp What test is used to determine optimal coagulant dosage? Jar Test Giardia cysts range in size from 8 to 20 microns Quantity of oxygen that can be dissolved in water is directly related to _______? Temperature (Hot temperature dissolves more oxygen in water) What is apparent color? 41 color in sample before it is filtered Grease lubricated bearings should be regreased at what frequency? Every 3 - 6 Months Packing joints should be _______? Staggered When should Check Valves be present? When water is flowing in two directions What is the primary function of couplings? To compensate for alignment changes. How do you determine watts? (amps)x(volts) What are the different types of pumps? Centrifugal, positive displacement, and turbine What does a hypochlorinator do? Feed a liquid chlorine solution into a water supply. When should a positive displacement pump be operated? When suction and discharge valves are open. Pumps seals are classified how? Packing ring or mechanical What is the main purpose of priming? To replace air with water inside the pump. What is the purpose of a vacuum regulator? Stop flow of chlorine gas if a leak develops. Mechanical seals are appropriate for pumps operating under _________? High Suction Head What valve is most suitable for a throttling application? Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) Valve installed at the end of the suction pipe on a centrifugal pump is called? A foot valve . Opening the discharge valve one full turn on a chlorine cylinder will? Permit maximum discharge The two most important factors impacting the effectiveness of chlorination are? concentration of chlorine and contact time (Pump efficiency) x (Motor efficiency): Wire to water efficiency The treatment process that controls corrosion or scaling is known as? Stabilization Tubercles form on what kind of pipe? Ductile Iron What is the "C Value"? 42 Number that describes smoothness of the interior of a pipe Organism that causes illnesses and is the hardest to kill Cryptosporidiosis What indicates bearing failure? noise from pump Disinfection of water wells with free chlorine requires exposure for ______ hours at a concentration of ______mg/L 12-24 hours; 50 mg/L Permanganate reactions are highly dependent upon? pH Detention time in flocculation basins are usually designed to provide for 15-45 minutes What has little effect on colloidal particles since they are so small? Gravity Natural electrical force that keeps colloidal particles apart in water treatment Zeta Potential Alum works best in a Ph range of? 5.8-7.5 The zeta potential measures the number of excess ________ found on the surface of all particulate matter. Electrons How often should sedimentation basins with mechanical sludge removal equipment be drained and inspected? Once a Year What is the most important reason to reduce turbidity? To remove pathogens What is the filtration flow rate through a manganese greensand pressure filter at 10 degree centigrade? 2-3 gpm/ft The device that collects the settled water as it leaves the sedimentation basin? Effluent Launder Virgin greensand can be regenerated by soaking the filter bed for several hours in a solution of chlorine containing what? 100 mg/l c What role does the action of straining of suspended particles play during filtration? Minor The turbidity of settled water before it is applied to the filters (post sedimentation process) should always be kept below? 1-2 ntu 45 Reverse Osmosis Adding chlorine can cause what? Trihalomethanes Precipitative softening water treatment plants try to end up with distribution system water that is? Slightly scale forming Usually the best disinfectant to use in large-diameter pipes or very long pipelines is? Chlorine Gas A horizontal load, parallel to a pump shaft is called a? Thrust load Which type of chlorine gas feeder is most commonly used? Vacuum Which method for controlling nitrification problems in a distribution system would result in a temporary increase in trihalomethanes? Super chlorinating reservoirs and storage tanks The bearings that maintain the radial positioning of a shaft are called? Radial Bearings Why are altitude valves used on water storage tanks? To stop the flow of water into the tank when it is full Which valves can be used to throttle flow for only a short period of time? Butterfly valve Which is the main purpose of the meter yoke? Proper alignment and support for meter Which type of valve operates similar to a diaphragm valve? Globe Valve Which valve can go from fully open to fully closed with 1/4 turn? Plug valve Pressure gauges connected to both suction and discharge sides of a pump should be connected? To the pressure taps supplied on the pump Which valve would be best to use to precisely throttle flow? Needle Valve Inspection of the shaft and coupling alignment should be performed every ___ or immediately if problem signs develop? 6 months What is the maximum contaminant level for total trihalomethanes (TTHM) in the United States? 0.080 mg/l Bearings should NOT be lubricated with this type of oil? 46 Animal oil Iron can cause "red water" and thus customer complaints when its concentration is above its secondary maximum contaminant level of? 0.30 mg/L Sacrificial anodes are also called? Galvanic Anodes When a metal is galvanized, it is coated with? Zinc What is the action level for lead in first-draw samples taken from customer taps? 0.015 mg/l The highest degree of protection for the exterior of a coating steel pipe is? Cathodic Protection What term refers to the process by which organic compounds pass through plastic pipe? Permeation Compression fittings used with copper or plastic tubing seal by means of? a compressed beveled gasket When fully opened, which type of valve will have the highest head loss? Globe Valve SCADA systems consist of what distinct components? RTUs, communications, master station, and HMI What forces pull particles together during coagulation and flocculation? Van Der Waals Foot valves are a special type of? Check Valves True / False? Low turbidity can make it more difficult to form a proper floc? TRUE Packing is designed to? wear and deteriorate with normal use what is the action level for copper? 1.3 mg/l What are the 2 parts of a solution? solvent and solute What is the MCL for HAA5? .060 mg/l What is the MCLg for suspected carcinogens? 0 Optimal pH range for removal of particulate with alum? 5.8-6.5 47 Gravel displacement in filter beds is normally due to what backwash condition and what is the effect? Backwash rates that are too high, sand boil What is the filtration rate through a high rate mixed media filter? 3-8gpm/sqft Dissolved air flotation is good for removal of? Algae What would be the immediate effect if virgin greensand was not skimmed of fines after initial backwashing? shorter run times due to void clogging Max weir loading for light alum floc in a solids-contact basin? 10 gpm/ft Greensand is regenerated using? Potassium permanganate backwashing What is the granular medium and coating on greensand? Glauconite sand coated in manganese dioxide A fluoride saturator requires what minimum depth of chemical at all times? 6 inches What can be used as an oxidant for iron and manganese, organics precursors and T&O control? Potassium permanganate What is the typical backwash rate for greensand? 10-12 gpm/sqft Where should fluoride be injected? After complete treatment Corrosion can be accelerated by bacterial organisms because they produce what chemicals? CO2, H2S - hydrogen sulfide Which chemical would be best to use for corrosion inhibition if the water is low in alkalinity and calcium concentration Polyphosphates What chemicals are commonly used to increase both pH and alkalinity? lime CaO, Ca(OH)2, soda ash (sodium carbonate, Na2CO3), caustic soda (sodium hydroxide, NaOH To reduce noncarbonate hardness soda ash must is added to form what? calcium carbonate What metal is most likely to corrode? Magnesium, but lead and copper would be the more commonly used most corrodable metals