ABC Wastewater Collection Class IV study plan

Map Domain 1 into a checklist of O&M subtopics (preventive maintenance, odor/ corrosion control, root control, grease control, cleaning methods) and rate your confidence 1-5 on each

Define and write out the purpose and typical frequency of the four main pipe-cleaning methods (hydraulic flushing, mechanical rodding, bucket machine, jetting) from memory

Explain how flow velocity, pipe slope, and debris type determine which cleaning method and frequency to select

List the routine maintenance tasks for manholes, force mains, and gravity lines and note the failure each task prevents

Sketch and label the components of a gravity collection system from a single building service to the treatment plant headworks

Compare the design purpose and typical application of vitrified clay, PVC, ductile iron, concrete, and HDPE pipe

Describe the function of manholes, drop manholes, cleanouts, lampholes, and lift station wet wells and where each belongs

Identify common structural defects (cracks, joint offset, infiltration, root intrusion, sags) and the component each affects

Trace the flow path through a lift station from influent to discharge and identify the role of each component (wet well, pumps, check and isolation valves, controls, force main, vents)

Compare wet well and dry well configurations, submersible vs. self-priming pumps, and constant vs. variable speed control

List the steps to safely place a lift station pump in and out of service, including lockout/tagout and valve sequencing

Explain pump cavitation, air binding, and clogging symptoms and the corrective actions for each

Outline the confined space entry permit process and the roles of entrant, attendant, and entry supervisor

Distinguish inflow from infiltration and give at least three sources of each

Describe the methods used to quantify I/I (flow monitoring, smoke testing, dye testing, CCTV, rainfall-derived infiltration analysis)

Calculate flow using the continuity equation (Q = A x V) and Manning's equation for a partially full pipe

Explain how capacity, slope, velocity, and roughness relate, and identify minimum self-cleaning velocity targets

Describe how excessive I/I reduces system capacity and can cause sanitary sewer overflows

Describe the purpose and limitations of CCTV inspection, smoke testing, dye testing, air testing, and deflection testing

Explain how to read a CCTV inspection log and classify defects by severity

Compare rehabilitation methods (CIPP, pipe bursting, slip lining, spot repair, chemical grouting) by application and limitation

Summarize the key requirements of the Clean Water Act, NPDES permitting, and SSO reporting obligations

Identify the permit and reporting requirements that apply to collection system operation in your jurisdiction

Design a simple asset register with fields for location, condition, install date, and maintenance history

Explain how condition assessment data feeds into a capital improvement and rehabilitation prioritization plan

Describe the records and reports a collection system operator must maintain and how they support compliance

Outline a training plan for new operators covering safety, equipment, and job-specific skills

List the elements of an emergency response plan for a sanitary sewer overflow, pump failure, and confined space rescue

Re-review all previously missed or low-confidence items from Domains 1-3 and correct your notes

Complete at least 40 practice questions across Domains 1-3 and record your score and missed topics

Re-derive the cleaning method decision logic and the lift station procedure without notes

Identify remaining knowledge gaps and assign each a review action

Complete at least 40 practice questions across the remaining domains and record your score and missed topics

Re-derive the hydraulic calculations and confined space entry checklist without notes

Review the regulatory and reporting summary and confirm accuracy against your jurisdiction's requirements

Finalize a one-page quick-reference sheet of key formulas, limits, and procedures for exam day