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RE: Regulated Minimum Number of Operators

D Shulmister — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:43:03 GMT

Wiff P (11/16/2007)

This is a very complex issue and difficult to fairly regulate in my view as each facility and owner's organization can be quite different in staffing needs and approach. Ultimately needs are very site, operations organzation, and system specific.

This is absolutely true!!

I have a plant which is designed for 11 mgd, but the flow is only 4 mgd. I'd hate to think that the EPA or state regulators would want to direct the staffing level for that plant based on the design, especially since (nearly) no one with EPA nor the state has a clue about plant operations. The state should set a mininum number of operators, e.g., one licensed operator per shift. The utility should then have the latitude to add to that minimum, not be forced to add personnel which are not needed. On the other hand, utilities need to be responsible in setting staffing levels, not based on budget constraints.

RE: Regulated Minimum Number of Operators

Wiff P — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 15:02:47 GMT

This is a geat question to take to ABC (Associated Boards of Certification) as state certification authorities typically get involved in this issue. You can find them on the web.

To my experience it seems each state handles a bit differently. Massachusetts for example indexes staffing to the O&M Manual prepared by the plant designer while recent efforts at many plants have focused on becoming more cost efficient which typically also involves looking at plant organization, shift schedules, outsourcing some services, etc. for larger plants. NEIETCC, here in New England, is currently working with EPA to update their wastewater system staffing manual and they are due to finish that effort this winter or spring. That will give you some guidance in your efforts when it is done.

RE: Regulated Minimum Number of Operators

D Shulmister — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:21:11 GMT

In Florida there is a staffing and time requirement for plants. Typically, one minimum Class C operator is required per required operating shift. That is, in a very small plant, one operator may be required for one hour per day five days per week. In a very large plant, one operator may be required for every shift, 24/7. The Chief Operator class requirement may be C, B, or A depending on the plant capacity. There are no requirements for multiple operators on a shift.

Regulated Minimum Number of Operators

kroush — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 12:40:22 GMT

The State of New Mexico is developing regulations that will require a minimum number of operators for water and wastewater facilities. I was wondering if other states have or are considering similar regulations.