*This is a license receiving class accounting for eight (8) hours of CEU.
Monday, 7:45AM - 5PM Session, 5PM - 6PM Test
(There will be a break for lunch - not provided)
Explore a detailed agenda here: 2022 NAWT Inspector Course Agenda.docx.pdf
This course introduces the participant to Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) and how they function for the purpose of assessing their operation. In addition, it presents the NAWT protocol to complete a Systems Operations Inspection of the OWTS. It establishes a systematic procedure for how to evaluate the different components, identify issues and complete an inspection report.
OBJECTIVES:
As a result of this course the participant will be able to:
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Define what an onsite wastewater treatment system is and how it operates
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Describe wastewater flows into and through the OWTS
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Explain the difference between a conventional OWTS and an advanced treatment OWTS
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Explain the importance of proper maintenance of OWTS to ensure a fully functioning system
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Describe the different components of an OWTS and their function
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Complete a Systems Operation Inspection by evaluating and analyzing the different components of an OWTS
REQUIRED TEXT:
NAWT Introduction to Proper Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Practices and
NAWT Inspection Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems
The National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT), was formed in April of 1985. The purpose of the organization was to provide an effective voice at the national level for the industry to provide a diverse set of services to maintain a healthful environment. The association also expressed the desire to “disseminate information and service as a communication and education conduit for the industry.”
As a result of this purpose NAWT developed and launched a successful national Certificate of Completion program for individual onsite wastewater treatment (septic) system inspection. The inspection education program incorporated the USEPA proposed five management levels to provide the rationale and basis for inspecting onsite wastewater treatment systems. Over the past six years this has resulted in the training and examination of over 3,000 inspectors. Currently there are over 1,400 inspectors registered on the NAWT website.
As a part of this EPA supported project, NAWT trainers conducted “train the trainer” sessions, which resulted in establishment of trainers in California, Texas, Colorado, and Iowa. Continuing series of inspection education programs using the NAWT approach are required in Arizona, Delaware and New Mexico. Other states are working to establish education and Certificate of Completion programs for time of sale inspections.
The NAWT level of inspection is at the operation level. It requires the inspector to locate and identify all parts of the onsite treatment system. Then the inspector needs to assess the condition of each part and determine whether it is operating properly or if there are system deficiencies to be corrected. To do this requires that all parts of the system be accessible and opened for inspection. This includes septic tanks, pump chambers, pretreatment media filters, aerobic treatment units and soil treatment units.
The NAWT program requires inspectors to complete 8 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their Certificate of Completion. There is an annual fee for maintenance of this credential.
