All community and non-transient non-community water systems, including those that provide no treatment of their water, are required to have a certified distribution operator (H&SC ยง 106885)
The Department of Health Services has indicated that it has come to their attention, due to recent inspections, that a number of public water systems are not properly maintained as per the California Code of Regulations, section 63770.
It is imperative to the well being of these water systems they acquire the services of a responsible and reliable certified distribution operator to service and maintain the water system.
Responsibilities for day to day operations of the water system*
- A contracted certified operator should spend approximately 1 hour on-site daily, however, certified operators can supervise the water system without being present daily if working with a person (manager, etc.) who is responsible for the system on a daily basis.
- Routine visual inspections of the following:
- Source
- Source Water Protection
- Storage Facilities
- Chemical Treatment
- Develop and maintain site plan of source and distribution.
- Responsible for chemical supplies/addition.
- Calculate and test disinfectants.
- Collect or oversee collection of specified water samples.
- Maintain a sample monitoring schedule
- Maintain distribution system and storage facilities.
- Conduct adequate flushing programs
- Inspect water system within 24 hours of fecal/second Total Coliform positive result or other water system failures.
- Issue public notices when required in conjunction with system owner
- Monitor and record quantity of water pump from source.
- Attend all inspections by regulator agencies.
- Respond to consumer complaints and maintain a complaint log.
- Oversee/monitor all repairs performed on the system.
- Eliminate/protect distribution system against cross connections.
- Attend required training programs for certification and remain current in drinking water regulations and safety regulations.
- Notify owner or responsible person of state regulation violations.
Notes: List compiled from the publication of Public Health Department, Environmental Health Division. For follow-up questions regarding this information contact: Elaine McSpadden at: (530) 538-6773 or email: emcspadden@buttecounty.net