DC Water Operator study plan

Map the full water treatment train from source intake to finished-water storage, labeling each unit process and its purpose

Explain coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection in sequence, including what each step removes and how upstream performance affects downstream steps

Define the core water-quality parameters operators monitor (turbidity, pH, alkalinity, disinfectant residual, temperature) and state why each is regulated

Identify the primary wastewater treatment stages (preliminary, primary, secondary, disinfection) and the contaminants each targets

Compute basic unit-conversion and dosage problems (mg/L, lb/day, gpd to MGD) without a reference sheet

Describe jar-test procedures and interpret results to select coagulant dose and pH adjustment

Calculate chlorine dose, demand, and residual, and distinguish free from combined chlorine

Explain filter operation including backwash triggers, media types, and headloss monitoring

Interpret a hypothetical finished-water monitoring result set and decide whether it meets typical turbidity and residual targets

List the operational responses to a turbidity exceedance or loss of disinfectant residual

Explain the secondary treatment biological process (activated sludge or trickling filter) and the role of mixed liquor, return sludge, and waste sludge

Calculate solids retention time, food-to-microorganism ratio, and sludge wasting rates from given operating data

Describe the purpose and control points of disinfection and dechlorination in wastewater effluent

Interpret common wastewater lab results (BOD, TSS, ammonia, DO, settleability) and identify which indicate process upset

Outline typical responses to a bulking sludge, low DO, or effluent TSS exceedance

Identify the components of a distribution system: mains, valves, hydrants, meters, service lines, storage tanks, and backflow prevention

Explain the purpose and operation of booster disinfection and residual maintenance in the distribution system

Describe collection system components including gravity sewers, manholes, lift stations, force mains, and the role of infiltration and inflow

Calculate pipe flow, velocity, and detention time using given diameter and flow data

Explain the hydraulic grade line concept and how it affects pressure and service at points of use

Describe the causes and consequences of water hammer and the protective devices used to control it

Explain cross-connection control and backflow prevention device testing requirements

Outline a distribution system flushing and sampling program, including how sample sites are chosen

Interpret distribution monitoring data for disinfectant residual, pressure, and bacteriological results

Identify the steps in main repair and disinfection after a break, including shutdown, isolation, and sampling before return to service

Explain the purpose and operation of sewer cleaning methods (hydraulic, mechanical, root control) and how to select a method for a given condition

Describe inspection techniques including CCTV and smoke testing, and what each reveals about system condition

Identify safety hazards specific to collection systems: confined spaces, hydrogen sulfide, methane, traffic, and trenching

Outline the steps of a confined-space entry program including atmospheric testing, ventilation, and attendant duties

Describe lift station operation including wet well level control, pump cycling, and emergency response to a pump failure

Complete a timed 100-question mixed practice exam spanning all four domains and score it by domain

Review every missed question and write the underlying rule or formula in your own words

Re-derive the ten calculations you missed most often until you can do them from memory

List the regulations and reporting obligations that apply to each domain and identify which you are least confident about

Re-test your three weakest topics from week 7 and confirm improvement with a short self-quiz

Summarize each domain on a single index card of key formulas, limits, and process steps for final review

Complete a second timed practice exam and compare domain scores to week 7

Review safety and emergency-response procedures across all four domains one final time