MS Water Operator study plan

Define the full treatment train sequence (source, coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, storage) and state the purpose of each step in writing

Calculate chemical feed rates in mg/L and lb/day using the lb/day = mg/L × MGD × 8.34 formula, working at least 15 problems without notes

Identify the source water types (surface, groundwater, groundwater under direct influence) and list the contaminants each typically carries

Explain how raw water turbidity, alkalinity, and pH drive coagulant dose selection

Describe coagulation and flocculation jar testing procedure and interpret which dose and pH produce the best settled turbidity

Explain sedimentation basin theory: detention time, surface overflow rate, and short-circuiting causes

Distinguish conventional, direct filtration, and membrane treatment trains and when each is permitted

Calculate detention time, weir loading, and filter loading rate from given dimensions

Explain filtration mechanics including media types, backwash triggers, filter-to-waste, and turbidity limits

Describe disinfection with chlorine, chloramine, ozone, and UV, including CT concept and DBP formation tradeoffs

Summarize the Surface Water Treatment Rule and Disinfection Byproduct Rules: what each requires an operator to monitor and report

Match each treatment process to the specific regulatory limit it protects (turbidity, TTHM, HAA5, nitrate, lead)

Trace water from source through transmission, storage, and distribution to the customer meter

Describe groundwater aquifer types, well construction components, and the meaning of static and pumping water levels

Calculate specific capacity, drawdown, and well yield from given test data

Explain distribution system pressure requirements, storage sizing, and the role of elevated and ground storage tanks

Identify pipe materials, joint types, valves, hydrants, and meters and state the function and failure mode of each

Explain the causes of water hammer, corrosion, and tuberculation and the corrective actions for each

Describe cross-connection control, backflow prevention assemblies, and air gap requirements

Calculate head loss using given friction data and determine pump duty points from a simple system curve

Outline main break response: isolation, notification, repair, disinfection, flushing, and bacteriological sampling

Describe distribution monitoring for chlorine residual, pressure, and coliform and the action taken when a sample is positive

Explain source water protection, wellhead protection areas, and contamination pathways for both surface and groundwater

Summarize groundwater under the influence determination and why it changes treatment requirements

List the operator certification requirements, renewal cycle, and continuing education expectations for the state

Summarize the monitoring and reporting obligations that apply to a small community system, including sample frequency and public notice tiers

Describe confined space entry, chlorine and other chemical handling, and lockout/tagout procedures

Explain recordkeeping, sanitary survey findings, and how violations escalate

Complete a timed 100-question practice exam across all four domains and score each domain separately

Review every missed item and write the underlying concept and correct reasoning for each

Re-drill calculation types (feed rate, detention time, loading rate, well yield, head loss) until each is solved cold

Build a one-page final review sheet of limits, formulas, and procedures