Distribution Operator Certification
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

In 1998, the US EPA released Guidelines for the Certification and Recertification of Operators of Community and Nontransient Noncommunity Public Water Systems. Based on these guidelines, state regulations governing the certification of potable water treatment operators were revised to include distribution operators. These regulations became effective on January 2001.  The new distribution grades are designated D1 through D5.

FAQ - General Questions:

Q.    What water systems will need certified treatment operators as well as a Distribution Operator?

A.  All Public Water Systems with or without water treatment facilities must have certified distribution operators

Q.  What do the “Ts” and “Ds” mean on the operator certificate, distribution system classification, and treatment facility classification?

A.  A “T” prefix is used to indicate treatment and a “D” prefix is used to indicate distribution.

Q.  Does a certified distribution operator need to be on-site?

A.   If the certified operator can make an informed decision based only on remote information, without actually being on-site to gather the information, then that operator does not need to be on-site.

These are examples of questions and are intended as a guide to the applicable law and regulations, which apply to all operators. Please consult the requirements in health and Safety Code and California Code of Regulations.

For more information go to: Operator Certification FAQ