# First Nations Operator Certification Standards **Created by** **The First Nations Operator Certification Council** **July 2025** # Foreword This document outlines the standards for the classification of centralized water and wastewater systems, the requirements for qualification and process for certification of First Nations operators under the First Nations Operator Certification Council (FNOCC). The FNOCC oversees the implementation of The Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association’s (SFNWA) customized operator certification program. These standards are intended for use by operators, consultants, and other persons involved with the operation of water and wastewater treatment facilities in Saskatchewan, and other, First Nations. The FNOCC (Council) bases their decisions on these standards and will revise this document and subsequent processes as needed to align with First Nations-specific water regulations, as well as changes in water technology and Water Professionals International (WPI) best practices for certification. These standards apply to facilities owned by SK First Nations bands. The benefits of the SFWNA Certification Program are: - Customized curriculum and content that reflect the realities of SK First Nations water systems; - Standards that promote reconciliation and understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing; - Assurance of drinkable, healthy water; - Protection of the ecosystem; and - Recognition of water systems operators as integral to the health of the communities they serve. Please forward inquiries concerning these standards to: > The First Nations Operator Certification Council > Suite 101, 103B Packham Avenue > Saskatoon, SK > S7N 4K4 > (306) 952-0402 > info@FNOCC.ca **Background** First Nations water systems are unique, as are the roles and responsibilities of the water systems operators within those communities. These water systems utilize some of the processes and technology used in small or large municipalities, alongside alternative processes and technologies. Additionally, First Nations water systems are often run by one or two operators who perform all of the job tasks which are typically distributed across a larger crew in municipal treatment plants. First Nations operators are required to know all of the components of the systems’ operations including maintenance, management, and safety requirements. The operator certification program implemented by the Saskatchewan government (i.e. Water Security Agency) follows the standardized Water Professionals International (WPI) certification exams, which do not fully align with the knowledge that First Nations operators in SK need to know to operate and manage their systems effectively. Following conversations with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and WPI, the SFNWA has fulfilled its membership’s call for a customized certification program. The FNOCC works in partnership with the SFNWA for the customized certification program. The SFNWA is a membership-driven non-profit charity. Its goal is to assist First Nations water professionals with the creation of programs for training and certification, and to promote the essential role of these roles within nations. The SFNWA gathered Circuit Rider Trainers from across SK to form a working group (CRTWG) to provide guidance on the creation of customized curriculum and content for water systems operation certification. With the assistance of the CRTWG and other water professionals familiar with SK nation systems, the SFNWA created detailed job task analyses for each type of system for both drinking water and wastewater treatment. The classification of SK First Nations water systems currently follows that of the SK Water Security Agency, but the classification rubric will be adapted to follow the detailed job task analyses in subsequent years. The FNOCC certification program has been vetted by Water Professionals International (WPI) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). WPI has developed a customized exam from the SFNWA Operator Certification Program curriculum and content. # Table of Contents Foreword i Table of Contents 4 1.0 Definitions 1 2.0 Responsibilities 2 2.1 Operator Responsibilities 2 2.2 Facility Owner Responsibilities 2 3.0 Certification and Recertification Process 3 3.1 Application Process 3 3.2 Appeals 4 4.0 Obtaining/Qualifying for Certification 5 4.1 Facility Classifications 5 4.1.1 Small Systems 5 4.1.2 Classes 1 to 4 5 4.2 Certificate Types 5 4.2.1 Certification by Reciprocity 6 4.2.2 Restricted/Conditional Certification 7 4.2.3 Certification One Level Above Facility Classification 8 4.2.4 Direct Responsible Operator 8 4.3 Certification Requirements 9 4.3.1 Operator-in-Training (OIT) 9 4.3.2 Small Systems Certification 10 4.3.3 Class 1 Certification 10 **4.3.4** Class 2 Certification 10 **4.3.5** Class 3 Certification 11 5.0 Examinations 11 5.1 Qualifying To Write A Certification Exam 11 5.2 Exam Formats 12 5.2.1 Operator-in-Training 12 5.2.2 Small Systems 12 5.2.3 Class 1 and 2 12 5.2.4 Class 3 12 5.3 Rewrites of Certification Exams 12 6.0 Certification Renewals 13 6.1 Initial Certificates 13 6.2 Maintenance of Certification 13 6.2.1 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) 13 6.2.2 Changes in Certification Requirements and Classification 14 6.2.3 Expired and Lost Operators 14 6.3 Revocation of Certification 15 6.4 Enforcement 15 7.0 First Nations Operator Certification Council Terms of Reference 17 Appendix A: Centralised Water Treatment Definitions 20 Appendix B: Centralized Water Treatment/Distribution Systems Classification Rubric 23 Appendix C: Centralised Wastewater Treatment System Definitions 27 Appendix D: Centralised Wastewater Treatment/Collection System Classification Rubric 29 Appendix E: Education and Experience Requirements for Certification 32 Appendix F: Continuing Education Unit Specifics 35 # Definitions **Canadian Adult Education Credential** qualifies as an equivalency for a high school diploma, replacing the GED diploma. A **Certified Operator** is an individual who holds the qualifications of operator certification and performs day-to-day activities, including operations, maintenance, management, and administrative tasks, for the quality and control of water systems in the nation or nations. A **Continuing Education Unit (CEU),** equates to ten hours of participation in an organized education or training experience relevant to requirements for the successful and safe operation and maintenance of water systems. The CEU classes are guided by a capable and qualified instructor(s) as determined by the First Nations Operator Certification Council. One unit is represented as 1.0; classes can provide fractional units based on their length (e.g. a 1 hour class provides 0.1 CEUs). **Direct Responsible Operator (DRO)** is the title for an experienced, certified operator who has supervisory responsibilities of the water system(s)’s operations and management and other operating staff. The facility owner must designate an individual or individuals to this position. **First Nations Operator Certification Council (Council)** oversees the certification of water systems operators taking part in the customized certification program in Saskatchewan and other regional nations; facilitates and approves the creation of water and wastewater system classification in Saskatchewan nations; and follows the certification standards outlined in this document. **General Education Development (GED)** is a General Educational Development Certificate and is an adult education diploma taken to qualify for a high school equivalency certificate or diploma. GEDs are issued by the educational authority of any Canadian province and/or territory. **Operating Experience** means the time spent working at a water or wastewater system in satisfactory performance of operating duties as approved by the Council. **The Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association (SFNWA)** is a nonprofit charity, guided by its membership of First Nations water professionals in Saskatchewan, that aims to strengthen the capacity of water systems operators in SK First Nations to operate, maintain, and manage their water systems. See https://sfnwa.ca/ for more information. **Water Professionals International (WPI)**, formerly Associated Boards of Certification (ABC), is the international certifying body that creates and facilitates operator certification exams, both standardized and customized. **Water Systems Operator (Operator)** is a person who performs the routine activities required to properly operate and maintain water and wastewater systems, which can include drinking water treatment, drinking water distribution, wastewater treatment, and/or wastewater collection. # Responsibilities ## Operator Responsibilities Operators are responsible for adhering to the following: - Understand the terms and conditions in the licensure/approval for their facilities; - Understand the operator certification requirements for their facilities; - Establish and implement contingency plans for their facilities to ensure that operator certification registration requirements are met. ## Facility Owner Responsibilities First Nations are ultimately responsible for the following: - Ensure that facility operators have the required level of certification for the water facility; - Ensure that these certifications are maintained at all times; - Develop a program to ensure that competent personnel are available in the case an alternative is needed. Operators and facility owners (First Nations) will have the assistance of the Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association (SFNWA) to meet these requirements. # Certification and Recertification Process There are two types of certification in Saskatchewan: 1) Customized certification for First Nations: created for the unique systems and working environments of First Nations water systems. 2) Standardized certification for Saskatchewan: intended to train operators on all systems across Canada and the United States. The certification and recertification process described throughout these standards are for customized certifications recognised by the FNOCC. Standardized certification must be sought through the Saskatchewan Operator Certification Board (SK OCB). ## Application Process The process to become a certified operator includes the following steps and considerations: 1) Understand the classification of the facility in which you will/do operate (see 4.1 Facility Classification). This is the type of certification that you will need to obtain to be compliant with these standards (see 4.2 Certificate Types). 2) To meet that certification’s requirements, you must have certain levels of education and experience (see 4.3 Certification Requirements), verified by a supervisor/educational institution. 3) Write and pass the appropriate certification exam, in the case of initial certification (see 5.0 Examinations). If applying for recertification, this step will be omitted (move to step 4). 4) Submit the appropriate application form with relevant, verified documentation and any required payment to the First Nations Operator Certification Council (FNOCC) (www.FNOCC.ca) through one of the following ways: **In person at, or by mail to:** > The First Nations Operator Certification Council > Suite 101, 103 B Packham Avenue > Saskatoon, SK S7N 4K4 **By email to:** certification@FNOCC.ca **Through the SFNWA Learning Management System portal:** https://learn.sfnwa.ca Note: Applicants must submit completed applications, forms, payments and all relevant documents in full. Only verifiable documentation will be accepted. Applications will be delayed if partially complete. These applications will be moved to pending status. 5) The FNOCC will review your application during scheduled board meetings and a response will be provided to the applicant within 7 to 10 working days of the board meeting. The FNOCC database will be updated with the results of the application. ## Appeals Every applicant/certificant has the right to appeal any decision made by the FNOCC. #### Application appeals: If not satisfied with the FNOCC decision, an applicant may request a second review of their application to be conducted within 90 days of the initial request. If the results remain unsatisfactory, the applicant can make a request, with proper payment, within 90 days of the second decision, for an appeal process whereby the Council will meet with the applicant and any other relevant individuals (i.e. Direct Responsible Operator, nation leadership or manager, and/or the Circuit Rider Trainer) to discuss the situation and to determine the path forward. If, after the appeal process, the application continues to not meet expectations and requirements, the Council will provide a list of requirements for the operator to be granted their re/certification. The recommendations will include a deadline for the requirements to be met. If this deadline is not met, the certification or recertification application will be destroyed. #### Examination appeals: Candidates who fail the examination and believe this was due to an error in electronic scoring may request to have their examination scored by hand at the discretion of the Council. A request charge will be issued, that will be refunded if an error in grading is found. #### Enforcement appeals: In a situation whereby the operator is disciplined due to alleged or proven misconduct, the operator may request an appeal process within 90 days of the decision by the Council. The Council will enlist the assistance of a third party to provide an unbiased review of the evidence against the operator before issuing a final decision. This decision will not be reversed. The appeal process will be documented and available to the applicant/operator upon request. # Obtaining/Qualifying for Certification ## Facility Classifications Water systems are classified by a scoring system that assigns points based on source water characteristics, the complexity and associated risks of the treatment processes occurring withing a particular treatment, distribution, or collection system, and size of population served. Facilities can be classified as a Small System, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, or Class 4. ### Small Systems #### Drinking Water A small system will have a Class 1 water treatment or water distribution facility but serve a population of 500 or less. This system must be a groundwater system as all surface water systems are, at a minimum, Class 2 systems. #### Wastewater A small wastewater system will be a Class 1 treatment or collection system and serve a population of 500 or less. The treatment system must be non-mechanical. ### Classes 1 to 4 The FNOCC currently utilizes the SK Provincial Government (Water Security Agency) facility classification point system. Water treatment (WT), wastewater treatment (WWT), water distribution (WD), and wastewater collection (WWC) facilities are classified in accordance with a point system, based on indicators of population and system complexity, as illustrated below (Table 1). The rating rubrics for the facility classifications are provided in Appendices B & D. Table 1: Facility Classification Point System for Class I to IV (Water Security Agency, Dec 2016) | Facility | Units | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |----------|-------------------|-------------|------------|-------------|------------| | WT | Range of points | up to 30 | 31-55 | 56-75 | 76 & up | | WD\* | Population served | up to 1,500 | 1501-15000 | 15001-50000 | 50001 & up | | WWT | Range of points | up to 30 | 31-55 | 56-75 | 76 & up | | WWC\* | Population served | up to 1500 | 1501-15000 | 15001-50000 | 50001 & up | \*In-line treatment (such as booster pumping, chlorination, fluoridation, sequestering agent, or odour control) is considered part of a distribution or collection system. ## Certificate Types There are two certificate types recognised by the FNOCC. 1) Customized certification for First Nations: created for the unique systems and working environments of SK First Nations water systems, including for water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection, and wastewater treatment. 2) Standardized certification for Saskatchewan: intended to train operators on all systems across Canada and the United States. Customized certification can be obtained through the First Nations Operator Certification Council (FNOCC). The SFNWA can facilitate standardized exams by request. A progressive certification process is available to water systems operators in First Nations, ranging from: - Operator-in-Training (OIT): One certification that includes WT, WD, WWT, and WWC - Small Systems: Two certifications: WT & WD and WWT & WWC - Class 1: Certification for each of WT, WD, WWT, WWC - Class 2: Certification for each of WT, WD, WWT, WWC - Class 3: Certification for each of WT, WD, WWT, WWC To be fully certified, the operator must meet the prerequisites, training, experience, and examination requirements congruent to the classification of their system and certification type (see Section 4.3). The customized certification program provided by the SFNWA and overseen by the FNWA may be eligible for reciprocity through provincial certification bodies. (see Section 4.2.1). ### Certification by Reciprocity The FNOCC will grant reciprocity of certification for anyone holding a valid standardized certification of the same level. Other certification types (i.e. other customized certification programs) will be examined on a case-by-case basis according to the water system technology of the region in which the certification is held. #### Reciprocity within Canada When an operator certified in a non-Saskatchewan province/territory applies for reciprocity through the FNOCC, the following criteria must be met: 1) The operator currently holds a valid operator certificate by a provincially or territorially recognised authority; 2) There are no disciplinary, enforcement actions, or sanctions against the operator; 3) The operator’s certificate is not conditional, restricted, or expired; Operators must disclose to the FNOCC if they are knowingly under disciplinary action from another jurisdiction. If approved, the certification will be renewed for the remaining period in the original certification to the maximum of the FNOCC recertification period (2 years). All operators applying for reciprocity of certification must submit an application for reciprocity. To ensure consistent decision-making, procedures and policies for issuing reciprocal certifications to operators from other jurisdictions will be documented. The procedures and policies state which type of equivalency certification will be issued and if any additional criteria must be met within certain circumstances. As reciprocity applications accrue, the material differences between programs will be documented and assessed to assist with the issuing of consistent certification. #### Reciprocity outside of North America As classification and certification criteria are different outside of Canada (CA) and the United States (USA), no equivalent certifications will be issued for international (outside of CA and USA) operators. If the operator has relevant and verified education and experience outside of CA and the USA, they will be permitted to attempt the Level 1 certification exam for that certification type. ### Restricted/Conditional Certification A restricted or conditional certification may be issued to a water systems operator (Classes 1 through 3) in special circumstances. The certificate will be restricted to the individual’s place of employment. This certification may be issued to an operator who has been able to meet some but not all of the requirements. Additionally, if a nation is undergoing staffing changes and/or implementing a new water system whereby the new facility classification exceeds the existing facility classification, that operator, or Direct Responsible Operator (DRO), may be issued a restricted/conditional certification. This certification limits the operator’s ability to operate and maintain their own system and is non-transferable. In addition, this operator is not eligible for reciprocity in other jurisdictions according to the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. The FNOCC will review restricted/conditional certification applications on a case-by-case basis. Restricted certifications will be considered in the following situations: 1) Exam Score Insufficient - An operator has the required experience for certification but scores 1 to 5 percent lower on the certification exam than what is required (e.g., if 70% is required for a pass, the operator achieves anywhere from 65% to 69%). The conditional certificate will expire three years after it is issued. - Prior to obtaining the next highest classification type, the conditional status of the certification must removed (i.e. the operator rewrites the exam and achieves a passing grade of 70%). 2) New Facility/Facility Classification Change/Staffing Changes - A nation is replacing or upgrading their existing water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, or wastewater collection system which will increase the system’s classification, and they do not employ an operator with the matching certification level. So long as the existing operator is already fully certified to the classification of the existing facility, they could be granted a restricted certification that allows them to complete the certification level required by the updated system. > Note: Restricted certification is valid for 18 months from the start-up of the facility if moving from Class 1 to Class 2 certification. The restricted certification is valid for 36 months from the start-up of the facility if moving from Class 2 to Class 3 certification. > > Note: The facility owner(s) must make every effort to acquire an operator with or train existing operators to the required level of certification required for the new facility. The owner(s) must provide documentation to the FNOCC detailing a plan to have a fully certified operator within the specified period. ### Certification One Level Above Facility Classification The following qualifications will allow an operator operating a plant that matches their current certification level to obtain the next highest level of certification without moving to a facility with the next highest classification level. This is only applicable for achieving certification one level higher than the currently held certification. All of the following requirements must be met: - Grade 12 or GED equivalent or additional experience equivalent (see section 4.3 Certification Prerequisites); - The required experience of the higher classification certification; - Completion of a mandatory preparatory course taken prior to attempting the Certification Exam; - Earning the required CEUs for the higher classification level. ### Direct Responsible Operator A Direct Responsible Operator (DRO) is a designation, not a certification. This person is the lead operator with supervisory responsibility for the other operating staff. They are also responsible for ensuring that the facility meets regulatory requirements, including monitoring and reporting. DRO experience can only be gained after an operator obtains Class 2 certification. An operator will gain DRO experience when they have been authorized to perform, on a daily basis, the following duties: - Review and establish operational parameters for the system; - Control the on-site operations of the facility/system including monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of the system or process; and/or - Provide on-site supervision of operators performing either or both of the previous points. The owner of the water facility must designate one or more operator(s)—certified for the appropriate class and type of system—as being a DRO. Where a community does not have an operator certified to the class of the system, the nation may assign a temporary local DRO, with a formalized plan to provide the temporary DRO with the required training to reach the minimum certification level required. Designation of an operator as a DRO and recording their experience as a DRO is important because documentation of this experience is required for Class 3 certification. An operator working shifts alone will earn DRO experience credit. ## Certification Requirements Certification prerequisites are based on the following principles: - To perform duties as a competent water systems operator, basic levels of education and experience are required; - There are many ways of learning outside of the formal education system; practical experience is valued and therefore work equivalencies may be considered in lieu of education; - Work experience and related training are relevant learning, and therefore they will be considered in the certification process. The applicant is required to ensure that the proper documentation and credentials have been met for the desired certification level. Please see Appendix E: Education and Experience Requirements for Certification for more information. ### Operator-in-Training (OIT) The Operator-in-Training designation (OIT) is an optional certification that allows an individual to explore whether becoming a certified operator is their desired career path. It is a generic water and wastewater program, including a one-week training program followed by an exam. It assists individuals in the development of their career path and preparing for higher levels of certification. This certification may be pursued by individuals whether they have experience with a water system or not. There are two paths to acquire this certification: 1) No experience: Enroll in the program, complete the training, and take the exam. If successful, the individual will have the designation of an OIT. 2) Currently employed in a water system: challenge the exam without enrolling in the program. If successful, they will be granted OIT Certification. An OIT certification is available for individuals who do not yet meet all of the requirements for certification in higher classes. An OIT can fill a vacant position without concerns of non-compliance with standards. The OIT certification cannot be renewed or will expire after a maximum of three years. An OIT employed in a water system will: - Meet the education requirements of Small Systems, Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 certification. - Be under the supervision of an experienced, certified operator (i.e. Direct Responsible Operator and/or Circuit Rider Trainer). ### Small Systems Certification - Grade 10 education or equivalent - 6 hours of continuing education units (0.6 CEUs) - Grade of 70% or higher on the exam; and - Current employment as a water systems operator in SK in a facility with a small classification or higher. ### Class 1 Certification - Grade 12 education or equivalent - Entry level training (70 hours) - 1 year (1,800 hours) of operating experience completed - Grade of 70% or higher on the exam; and - Current employment as a Water or Wastewater System Operator in SK in a Class 1 or higher water or wastewater system. The OIT must work under the supervision of a certified operator and they may not be designated as a Direct Responsible Operator (DRO). ### Class 2 Certification - Grade 12 education or equivalent and Class 1 certification - 3 years (5,400 hours) of operating experience completed - Grade of 70% or higher on the exam; and - Current employment as a Water or Wastewater System Operator in SK in a Class 2 or higher water or wastewater system. ### Class 3 Certification - Grade 12 education/equivalent, Class 2 certification, and 2 years (900 hours) post-secondary - 4 years (7,200 hours) of operating experience completed - 2 years (3,600 hours) in a Class 2 or higher facility/system of being Direct Responsible Operator - Grade of 70% or higher on the exam; and - Current employment as a water/ or wastewater system operator in SK in a Class 3 or higher classification water or wastewater system. Operating experience will be verified by a Director Responsible Operator (DRO), a Circuit Rider Trainer, or owner representative, supported by a job description and list of operational job duties. # Examinations ## Qualifying To Write A Certification Exam An operator must meet the minimum education requirements and at least 50 percent[^1] of the required operational experience to qualify for the certification exam for a specific classification and type. The operator will be considered certified once they have gained the necessary experience operating and maintaining the water system. If the operator does not have the full experience requirements prior to writing an exam, the operator has a time limit from the date when they pass the certification exam to gain this experience, dependent on the level of classification. Specifically, - Class 1: 9 months - Class 2: 1.5 year - Class 3: 2 years Additionally, the operator must sign examination and professional codes of conduct prior to writing an examination. Application forms for each type and category of exam are available through the SFNWA website (www.sfnwa.ca) or by calling the office (309-952-0402). The form outlines the specific requirements that must be met to qualify to write each exam. ## Exam Formats ### Operator-in-Training The optional Operator-in-Training (OIT) program and exam is a generic water and wastewater exam designed to educate and test an operator’s general knowledge of the core competencies required for the water industry. There are 30 multiple choice questions focused on six subject areas including: basic science, mathematical calculations, due diligence, health and safety, operation and maintenance, and water and wastewater. The pass mark for the exam is 70%. ### Small Systems Small System exams for water treatment/distribution and wastewater collection/treatment each include 50 questions. The exams test the student on the operations of small water treatment or wastewater treatment systems. The pass mark for each exam is 70%. ### Class 1 and 2 The exams for WT, WD, WWT, and WWC in Classes 1 and 2 consist of 100 questions each. The questions include those on calculations, recall, and application in multiple areas (i.e. safety, laboratory, operations, etc.). The pass rate for these exams is 70%. ### Class 3 The exams for WT, WD, WWT, and WWC in Class 3 consist of 100 questions each. The questions include those on calculations, recall, and application in multiple areas (i.e. safety, laboratory, operations, etc.). The pass rate for these exams is 70%. NOTE: The applicant may request that they take part in an oral exam, rather than a written. The applicant must indicate this on the application form. ## Rewrites of Certification Exams If an applicant does not pass a certification exam the first time, they have the option to rewrite the exam after a 30-day waiting period. This waiting period allows for additional preparation time for the student to study the exam material. An applicant may attempt to write an exam three times (initial and rewrites). If the applicant is unable to pass on the third attempt, they must complete training to the satisfaction of the FNOCC (i.e. providing proof to the Council) before being allowed to write a fourth or subsequent times. The area(s) of training will be determined by summary results of the first three exams. # Certification Renewals ## Initial Certificates Once an operator has met the minimum experience and education requirements of the FNOCC Program and has successfully passed the appropriate certification exam, the FNOCC will issue a certificate to the operator and update the FNOCC database. The certificate will include the name of the individual, the date of the initial certification, and the class and type of certification. ## Maintenance of Certification ### Continuing Education Units (CEUs) To remain certified, the operator must be active in each field in which they hold certification. Positions such as management/supervisor, instructor, inspector, etc. in the water/wastewater profession are considered as being active in the field. To continue to qualify for certification, an operator must participate in education and training that advances their skills and knowledge for the operation and maintenance of their systems. In every three-year re-certification cycle, operators must accrue a specific number of Continuing Education Units (CEUs), depending on their level of certification, and submit their application, along with the appropriate certificates, to the FNOCC for recertification. One hour of training equates to 0.1 CEU. - A Small Systems Operator requires 1.5 CEU per recertification cycle (3 years) - A Class 1 Operator requires 2.4 CEU per recertification cycle (3 years) - A Class 2 Operator requires 2.4 CEU per recertification cycle (3 years) - A Class 3 Operator requires 2.4 CEU per recertification cycle (3 years) Please see Appendix F for more information on CEUs. Approved CEUs are available from several sources and organizations. A comprehensive list can be found through SK OCB (www.saskocb.ca). CEUs specific to First Nations water systems can be found on the SFNWA website (https://sfnwa.ca/ceu-classes) or through the SFNWA Learning Management System (https://learn.sfnwa.ca). Additional CEU hours accumulated beyond what is required for a specific certification level cannot be carried over into the next three-year recertification cycle. To ensure their certification is maintained, operators must submit verification of the CEUs attained by completing the Certification Renewal Form and providing copies of the CEU certificates in which they participated. The operator must also adhere to the FNOCC code of conduct as a condition of recertification. The CEU renewal deadline will follow a three-year cycle congruent with the original certification date. All renewal documentation should be submitted at least one month prior to the certification deadline. ### Changes in Certification Requirements and Classification When program changes occur that are not related to the classification of water systems (i.e. education or experience requirements for their current level of certification), operators will be granted exemption (i.e. grandfathering). When program changes occur specifically related to water system classifications (i.e. Class 1 facility has changed to Class 2; Class 2 to Class 3), operators will be granted exemption for a period of time based on their level of certification (i.e. A currently held Class 2 certification will be considered Class 3). They will have the time listed below to update their education and/or experience requirements in line with the changes made to the classification level. After this period, their certification will revert to the previously held level, rendering them non-compliant with regulations. - Class 1 to upgrade to Class 2: 2 years - Class 2 to upgrade to Class 3: 3 years ### Expired and Lost Operators Operators whose certifications have not been renewed by the recertification or expiry date will be categorized as expired operators until their renewal process has been completed. If the operator exceeds one renewal/recertification term (i.e. three years), they will be updated in the database as a Lost Operator. If a Lost Operator has exceeded one or more renewal terms but has relevant operating experience during that time and wishes to renew their certification, they will be required to complete the appropriate number of CEUs for each renewal term missed. If a Lost Operator has exceeded one or more renewal terms and does not have the relevant operating experience during that time and wishes to renew their certification, they will be required to complete the appropriate number of CEUs for each renewal term missed and write and pass the appropriate class and type of exam previously held. To maintain certification, an operator must remain active in each field for which they hold certification. Managers, supervisors, inspectors, instructors, etc. within the profession of water and wastewater are understood as being active in their field. In all cases of Lost Operators in which documented extenuating circumstances have occurred, such as military service or illness, special consideration will be given. The FNOCC will document these special circumstances to be as consistent in their decision-making as possible. ## Revocation of Certification An operator will be under review and may have their certification revoked or suspended if one or more of the following conditions exist: 1) The operator has contravened the various acts or regulations within the profession; 2) The individual has cheated to aid themselves or another(s) to pass a certification exam including copying or removing exam materials; 3) The operator has committed fraud or deception with regard to their certification, recertification, examinations, or during the operation, maintenance, and/or management of their system; 4) Reasonable care, judgement, or the application of their knowledge or ability was not used in performing operational or management duties; 5) The person is unable or unwilling to perform prescribed duties properly (i.e. incompetent) which may or may not have put undue risk on human or ecosystem health; 6) The operator has breached examination or professional codes of conduct, including that of the FNOCC; 7) The operator failed to comply with or meet any conditions set out in their certificate. ## Enforcement The FNOCC has the authority to discipline certificants regardless of the location in which the misconduct occurred, or of disciplinary action taken by other entities. Certificants have the right to appeal decisions made by the FNOCC (see Section 3.2). The level of severity of the misconduct, including the impact and potential risk to public health, the natural environment, and the integrity of the certification process, will be considered when determining the duration and severity of the disciplinary action. Some examples of disciplinary actions include, but are not limited to: 1) Reprimand 2) Censure 3) Probation 4) Suspension 5) Revocation 6) Fines and other administrative penalties 7) Civil and/or criminal action To ensure consistency in application of enforcement procedures, the FNOCC documents enforcement proceedings and compliance with enforcement action. These records will be maintained and shared with other certifying authorities upon request and in keeping with privacy legislation. If a certified operator has been subject to disciplinary action, all conditions of the disciplinary action must be satisfied prior to recertification, if applicable. # First Nations Operator Certification Council Terms of Reference #### PURPOSE The First Nations Operator Certification Council (FNOCC) provides oversight of water systems operator certification for First Nations communities, and others within Canada (forthcoming), who follow the First Nations Operator Certification Standards to determine the suitability of operators. #### AUTHORITY The Council is overseen by the national First Nations Water Association (FNWA) and is vetted by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). #### ROLE The Council will derive representation from current or past water systems operators, including Circuit Rider Trainers, who are familiar with the operation, maintenance, and management of water systems in First Nations. As a collective group, the Council will provide guidance to ensure that certification standards and guidelines are met in accordance with the regional legislation as it relates to water systems operations and standards, and Water Professionals International (WPI) Model Standards of Operator Certification and testing standards. The Council will ensure that regional representatives of Indigenous Services Canada are continually kept apprised of the changes in the First Nations Operator Certification Program. #### RESPONSIBILITIES The Council is responsible to: - Ensure operators meet the First Nation certification standards in all areas including exam scores, experience, and education—including required Continuing Education Units (CEUs); - Ensure that CEU classes and certification programs are congruent with WPI and FNWA frameworks and stipulations; - Oversee CEU and certification program instructor and exam proctor eligibility; - Determine the validity of appeals and challenges to the results of examinations and provide advice on the next steps to move forward towards certification; - Update and provide certification documentation to operators when applicable, according to most recent policy and standards; - Entertain appeals of its own decisions; - Approve water system classifications that have been prepared by a third party, licensed professional engineer; - Review, and provide advice on, the certification standards to FNWA every two years for the first ten years of the Council’s formation for adjustment as required. The Council will review these standards every five years (at a minimum) following this period. #### COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP The Council will be made up of six persons, including a Chairperson, from representative geographical and political areas of the region/province. Prospective Council members will apply for the position, be interviewed by the current Council, and be appointed to serve on the Council. The majority, if not all, of the Council members will be of First Nations decent. Ideally, the Council will include a representative (ex-officio or not) from the SFNWA and the FNWA. If desired, non-voting representatives of other regions will be invited to serve on the Council. Appointments will be for a two-year term, to a maximum of three terms. Initially, individuals will be vetted by the SFNWA Board of Directors and appointed by the FNWA thereafter. #### RESPONSIBILITIES – INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Individual Council Members are expected to: - Understand the purpose of operator training and certification; - Prepare for and contribute to discussions at Council meetings; - Apply current standards and policy in consideration of certification at all times; - Evaluate their own personal effectiveness and contribution as a member. #### RESPONSIBILITIES – CHAIR The Council Chair is expected to: - Chair and lead Council meetings; - Understand and support individual Council Members; - Oversee and direct the execution of Council activities; - Serve as point of contact between the Council and the SFNWA and for any questions directed to the Council. #### REPORTING The Council communicates its decisions and activities to FNWA, the SFNWA, and its membership through the SFNWA. The FNOCC provides financial and deliverable reports to Indigenous Services Canada. #### MEETINGS The Council will meet approximately every two months and as needed; meetings and decisions can be made via email with majority approval. The Chairperson or designate will prepare and distribute the agenda and meeting materials so members can make informed decisions. The SFNWA will set-up and facilitate virtual meetings if required. If available, honoraria for meetings will be provided. The Council will either directly or indirectly solicit opinions of and involve First Nations groups, communities, and committees associated with the operation of water systems, operator certification, and operator training to improve the administration and content of the certification program. #### REVIEWS **Internal review** The Council will review the certification program annually. **External review** The program will be reviewed externally at least once every five years. The review must be conducted by those who have experience with operator certification processes, and by entities without a conflict of interest and no direct reporting responsibilities to the FNOCC. The evaluation should also include membership and associated stakeholder feedback. **Review specifics** Both internal and external reviews shall include an assessment of adequacy along with identified issues and recommendations for improvement in the areas listed below: 1) A program summary documenting the certification program’s strategic plan and how the mission aligns with the organization; 2) Resources, including credentials of both the Council and SFNWA staff, and staff sufficiency; 3) Budgetary, cost, and revenue analysis; 4) The exam process; 5) An identification of training needs; 6) The programs’ enforcement process and past activities; 7) Internal business processes and regulations; 8) External regulations and operator certification program best practices; 9) A continuing education review process, including relevancy (regarding recertification); 10) Initial certification and recertification processes; 11) Data management processes and integrity; 12) Responses to previous program reviews; 13) Stakeholder/membership involvement; 14) The status of operators and statistical trends; 15) Outreach efforts and reach. # Appendix A: Centralised Water Treatment Definitions[^2] **Aeration** is the process of adding air to water. Air can be added to water by passing air through water or passing water through air. **Biological drinking water treatment** is a process that uses naturally occurring or engineered microorganisms (like bacteria) to remove contaminants from water, making it safe for human consumption. **Diatomaceous Earth Filtration** is a technology using a thin layer of diatomaceous earth (a fine, siliceous material) that is deposited on a porous plate to serve as a filter. Mainly used in smaller systems because of the relative simplicity of the treatment units and maintenance requirements. **Direct Filtration** is a process where the sedimentation stage of conventional filtration is omitted. Filtration is performed directly after the flocculation stage of treatment. Filter aid is usually added before filtration. **Dissolved Air Flotation** is the process of solids removal where dissolved air is added to the clarifier from the bottom of the basin and the air raises suspended particles to the top of the water where the particles are removed by skimming. **Electrodialysis** is a process where brackish water flows between alternating cation-permeable and anion-permeable membranes. A direct electric current provides the motive force to cause ions to migrate through the membranes and either react to create a gas or remain in a separate solution as brine wastewater. **Horizontal-flow** refers to the flow of water in a horizontal direction through a rectangular or round sedimentation/clarification basin as opposed to a vertical or upward flow that would be found in a solids-contact clarifier. **Ion Exchange** is a chemical process involving reversible interchange of ions between a liquid and a solid but no radical change in structure of the solid. **Injection Mixers** is a process that uses perforated tubes or nozzles to disperse the coagulant into the water being treated. It provides uniform distribution of the coagulant over the entire basin. Generally sensitive to flow changes and may require frequent adjustments to produce the proper amount of mixing. **In-line Blender Mixers** are used for coagulant mixing where coagulant is added directly to water being treated through a diffuser in a pipe. Provides rapid dispersion of the coagulant without significant head loss. Energy consumption is less than a comparable mechanical mixer. **Mechanical Dewatering** is the use of mechanical devices such as centrifuges and rotational mechanisms to force the separation of solids (sludge) from liquids (water). **Mechanical Mixers** use paddles, turbines, and propellers, generally in coagulation facilities. They use electrical energy for mixing the coagulant with the water being treated. **Microfiltration** is a pressure-driven membrane filtration process. The membranes typically operate at about 34.5 to 207 kPa (5 to 30 psi) of transmembrane pressure and can be used to remove particulates such as turbidity, Giardia and Cryptosporidium protozoa, and bacteria. **Mixed-media Filters** are filtering media of different particle size or density. **Nanofiltration** is a pressure-driven membrane filtration process used to remove dissolved organic matters and multivalent ions such as calcium and magnesium hardness ions. The membranes typically operated at about 352 to 880 kPa (50 to 125 psi) of transmembrane pressure. **pH Adjustment** is the alteration of the pH of the raw water or prefinished water by mechanical or chemical procedures to enhance the performance of the treatment process. **Recarbonation** is the process of introducing carbon dioxide as a final stage in the lime-soda ash softening process in order to convert carbonates to bicarbonates and thereby stabilize the solution against precipitation of carbonates. **Reverse Osmosis** is the passage of water from a concentrated solution through a semipermeable membrane to fresh water with the application of pressure. **SCADA Instrumentation** refers to the Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition system, a computer-based system that monitors and controls remote water facility sites. A SCADA master control is typically located in a dedicated control center or treatment plant control room. Remote sites are equipped with remote terminal units to gather information and issue controls from the master station. **Solids Composting** refers to the process of mixing sludge with decaying organic material for eventual use as fertilizer. **Stability or Corrosion Control** is the removal of dissolved gases, treatment of the finished water to make it noncorrosive and building of protective coating inside the pipe. **Tube Sedimentation** is the process whereby tube settlers or high rate settlers are placed in rectangular or circular basins. Water enters the inclined settler tubes and is directed upward through the tubes. Each tube functions as a shallow settling basin. Particles collect on the inside surfaces of the tubes or settle to the bottom of the basin. **Ultra-Filtration** is the process of removing colloidal and dispersed particles from a liquid by passing the liquid through a membrane under high pressure. Ultrafiltration membrane typically operated at about 138 to 517 kPa (20 to 75 psi). **Up-flow Solid-Contact Sedimentation** is a unit which combines the coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation processes into a single basin, which is either rectangular or circular in shape. Flow is in an upward direction through a sludge blanket or slurry of flocculated, suspended solids. **Urban Runoff** occurs when materials accumulated on paved/other surfaces during dry periods, such as oil, grease, gasoline, and other residues are washed into local receiving water when storms begin, from roadway storm drainage systems in urban areas. Urban runoff may also contain animal droppings from pets and fertilizers used for landscaping. # Appendix B: Centralized Water Treatment/Distribution Systems Classification Rubric[^3] | **Classification** | | |--------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | Small System | 30 points or less & serving less than 500 people | | Class 1 | 30 points or less & serving a population greater than 500 | | Class 2 | 31 - 55 points | | Class 3 | 56 – 75 points |
Item Points Possible Points
Size
Design flow average day, or peak month's average day, whichever is larger (1 point per 1900 m3/day [round up]). Design flow: Consider this to be the design capacity of the plant. Ex. 34960 m3/day = 19 points 17860 m3/day = 10 points (20 max.). 1 - 20
Water Supply Sources (Rating based on public health significance)
Seawater/saltwater 0
Groundwater 0
Groundwater under direct influence of surface water (GWI) 8
Surface water 10

Average Raw Water Quality Variation - Applies to all sources (surface and groundwater). Key is the effect on treatment process changes that would be necessary to achieve optimized performance.

  • Little or no variation - no treatment provided except disinfection (0 points)

  • Minor variation - e.g. "high quality" surface source appropriate for slow sand filtration (1 point)

  • Moderate variation in chemical feed, dosage changes made: monthly (2 points), weekly (3 points), or daily (4 points)

  • Variation significant enough to require pronounced and/or very frequent changes (5 points)

  • Severe variation - source subject to non-point discharges, agricultural/urban storm runoff, flooding (7 points)

  • Raw water quality subject to agricultural or municipal waste point source discharges (8 points)

  • Raw water quality subject to industrial waste pollution (10 points)

 0 - 10

Raw water quality is subject to:

  • Taste and/or odor for which treatment process adjustments are routinely made (2 points)

  • Color > 15 CU (not due to precipitated metals). (3 points)

See Note 1 exceptions at end of table.

  • Iron and/or manganese > MCL: Fe (2 points), Mn (3 points)

Maximum 3 points allowed. See Note 1 exceptions.

  • Algal growths for which treatment process adjustments are routinely made (3 points)

 0 - 11
Chemical Treatment/Addition Processes
Fluoridation 4

Disinfection/Oxidation (Note: Points are additive to a maximum of 15 points allowed for this category.)

Chlorination:

  • Hypochlorites (5 points)

    • If generated on site (add 1 point)

  • Chlorine gas (8 points)

  • Chloramination (10 points)

  • Chlorine dioxide (10 points)

Ozonation (10 points)

UV Irradiation (2 points)

Iodine, Peroxide, or similar (5 points)

Potassium permanganate (4 points) (If used with greensand filtration no points)

 0 - 15
pH adjustment for process control (e.g. pH adjustment aids coagulation) 4
Stability or Corrosion Control (If same chemical is used for both Corrosion Control and pH adjustment, count points only once) 4
Coagulation/Flocculation & Filter Aid
Primary coagulant addition 6
Coagulant aid / Flocculant chemical addition (in addition to primary coagulant use) 2
Flocculation 2
Filter aid addition (Non-ionic/anionic polymers) 2
Clarification/Sedimentation
Sedimentation (plain, tube, plate) 4
Contact adsorption 6
Other clarification processes (air flotation, ballasted clarification, etc.) 6
Upflow clarification ("sludge blanket clarifier") 8
Filtration
Granular media filtration (Surface water/GWI) < 3 gpm/sq ft 10
Granular media filtration (Surface water/GWI) > 3 gpm/sq ft 20
Groundwater filtration 6

Membrane filtration

  • For compliance with a primary regulation (10 points)

  • For compliance with a secondary regulation (6 points)

 6-10
Diatomaceous earth (pre-coat filtration) 10
Cartridge/bag 5
Pre-filtration (staged cartridges, pressure sand w/o coagulation, etc.): add 1 point per stage to maximum of 3 points 1 - 3
Slow sand 5
Other Treatment Processes
Aeration 3
Air stripping (including diffused air, packed tower aeration) 5
Ion-exchange/softening 5
Greensand filtration 10
Lime-soda ash softening (includes: chemical addition, mixing/flocculation/ clarification/filtration - do not add points for these processes separately) 20
Granular activated carbon filter (do not assign points when included as a bed layer in another filter) 5
Powdered activated carbon 2

Blending sources with significantly different water quality

  • To achieve MCL compliance (4 points)

  • For aesthetic reasons (2 points)

 2 - 4
Reservoir management employing chemical addition 2
Electrodialysis 15

Other: Certification authority may assign 2 to 15 additional points for processes not listed elsewhere in this document. Please specify the processes here:

 2 - 15
Residuals Disposal

  • Discharge to surface, sewer, or equivalent (0 points)

  • On-site disposal, land application (1 point)

  • Discharge to lagoon/drying bed, with no recovery/recycling – e.g. downstream outfall (1 point)

  • Backwash recovery/recycling: discharge to basin or lagoon and then to source (2 points)

  • Backwash recovery/recycling: discharge to basin or lagoon and then to plant intake (3 points)

 0 - 3
Facility Characteristics

Instrumentation - Use of SCADA or similar instrumentation systems to provide data, with:

  • Monitoring/alarm only, no process operation - plant has no automated shutdown capability (0 points)

  • Limited process operation - e.g. remote shutdown capability (1 point)

  • Moderate process operation - alarms and shutdown, plus partial remote operation of plant (2 points)

  • Extensive or total process operation - alarms and shutdown, full remote operation of plant possible (4 points)

 0 - 4
Clearwell size less than average day design flow 5
Laboratory control
Bacteriological/biological Table 0 – 5
Chemical/Physical Table 1 – 10
Total Points

Notes:

1 Raw water quality is subject to:

  • Taste and/or odor (T&O) for which treatment process adjustments are routinely made (2 points):

1) T&O issue has been identified in a pre-design report, etc.,

2) a process has been installed to address, and

3) operational control adjustments are made at least seasonally.

Do not give points for T&O when there is no specific additional impact on operation. E.g. if a system is already pre-chlorinating for disinfection, give no points for T&O.

  • Color > 15 CU (not due to precipitated metals) (3 points) with following exceptions. Color will be considered elevated and points assigned when levels exceed 75 Color Units (CU) for conventional filtration, 40 CU for direct filtration, or 15 CU for all other technologies, except reverse osmosis (no points given for color for reverse osmosis).

  • Iron and/or manganese > MCL: Fe (2 points), Mn (3 points) (3 points maximum allowed) with following exceptions. Iron and manganese levels will be considered elevated and points assigned if they are greater than the MCL, except for applications of manganese greensand filters. For applications of manganese greensand filters, iron and manganese levels will be considered elevated when their combined level exceeds 1.0 mg/L (3 points allowed).

  • Algal growths for which treatment process adjustments are routinely made (3 points): Raw water will be considered subject to algae growths when treatment processes are specifically adjusted due to the presence of high levels of algae on at least a weekly basis for at least two months each year.

2 Upflow clarification ("sludge blanket clarifier”), also known as sludge blanket clarification. Includes such proprietary units as Super-Pulsator. These units include processes for flocculation and sedimentation. Important note: these are not the same as adsorption clarifiers. (8 points)

Laboratory control

The key concept is to credit laboratory analyses done on-site by plant personnel under the direction of the operator in direct responsible charge (points from 0 to 15).

Bacteriological/biological (0 - 5 max.)

  • Lab work done outside the plant (0 points)

  • Membrane filter procedures (3 points)

  • Use of fermentation tubes or any dilution method; fecal coliform determination (5 points)

Chemical/physical (0 min. - 10 max.)

  • Lab work done outside the plant (0 points)

  • Push-button or visual methods for simple tests such as chlorine, iron, manganese, turbidity (3 points)

  • Additional procedures such as filtration, jar tests and alkalinity (5 points)

  • More advanced determinations such as numerous inorganics (7 points)

  • Highly sophisticated instrumentation such as atomic absorption, gas chromatography (10 points)
# Appendix C: Centralised Wastewater Treatment System Definitions[^4] **Activated sludge** is wastewater treatment by aerating suspended organisms followed by clarification, including extended aeration, Intermittent Cycle Extended Aeration System (ICEAS), and other similar processes. A sequencing batch reactor with the purpose of providing this form of treatment would be rated under this category. **Biological or chemical/biological advanced waste treatment** is the advanced treatment of wastewater for nutrient removal including nitrification, denitrification, or phosphorous removal utilizing biological or chemical processes or a combination. If the facility is designed to nitrify based solely on detention time in an extended aeration system, only the points for nitrification by designed extended aeration should be given. **Chemical addition** is the addition of a chemical to wastewater at an application point for the purposes of adjusting pH or alkalinity, improving solids removal, dechlorinating, removing odors, providing nutrients, or otherwise enhancing treatment, excluding chlorination for disinfection of effluent and the addition of enzymes or any process included in the Tertiary Chemical/Physical Processes. The capability to add a chemical at different application points for the same purpose should be rated as one application; the capability to add a chemical(s) to dual units should be rated as one application; and the capability to add a chemical at different application points for different purposes should be rated as separate applications. **Chemical/physical advanced treatment following secondary** is the use of chemical or physical advanced treatment processes following (or in conjunction with) a secondary treatment process. This would include processes such as carbon adsorption, air stripping, chemical coagulation, and precipitation, etc. **Chemical/physical advanced treatment without secondary** is the use of chemical or physical advanced treatment processes without the use of a secondary treatment process. This would include processes such as carbon adsorption, air stripping, chemical coagulation, precipitation, etc. **Effluent treatment and disposal** is the ultimate treatment and disposal of the effluent onto the surface of the ground by rapid infiltration or rotary distributor or by spray irrigation. Subsurface treatment and disposal would be accomplished by infiltration gallery, injection, or gravity or pressurized drain field. **Fixed-film reactors** use biofiltration by trickling filters or rotating biological contactors followed by secondary clarification. **Imhoff tanks (or similar)** are septic tanks, spirogester, clarigester, or other single unit for combined sedimentation and digestion. **Land application of biosolids by contractor** refers to the application of beneficial reuse of biosolids to the land by a contractor outside of the control of the operator in direct responsible charge of the wastewater treatment facility. **Mechanical dewatering** is the removal of water from sludge by any of the following processes and including the addition of polymers in any of the following: vacuum filtration; frame, belt, or plate filter presses; centrifuge; or dissolved air flotation. **Mechanical post-aeration** is the introduction of air into the effluent by mechanical means such as diffused or mechanical aeration. Cascade aeration would not be assigned points. **Media filtration** refers to the advanced treatment of wastewater for removal of solids by sand or other media or mixed media filtration. **Solids composting** is the biological decomposition process producing carbon dioxide, water, and heat. Typical methods are windrow, forced air-static pile, and mechanical. **Solids stabilization** are the processes to oxidize or reduce the organic matter in the sludge to a more stable form. These processes reduce pathogens or reduce the volatile organic chemicals and thereby reduce the potential for odor. These processes would include lime (or similar) treatment and thermal conditioning. Other stabilization processes such as aerobic or anaerobic digestion and composting are listed individually. **Waste Stabilization Ponds or Lagoons** are open basins or reservoirs designed to treat or store wastewater. # Appendix D: Centralised Wastewater Treatment/Collection System Classification Rubric[^5] | **Classification** | | |--------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | Small System | 30 points or less & serving less than 500 people | | Class 1 | 30 points or less & serving a population greater than 500 | | Class 2 | 31 - 55 points | | Class 3 | 56 – 75 points | | **Item** | **Points Possible** | **Points** | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------|------------| | Size: Maximum population or part served, peak day (1 point min to 10-point max) | 1 per 10,000 or part | | | Size: Design flow average day or peak month's flow average day, whichever is larger (1 – point min to 10-point max) | 1 pt per 1.0 MGD or part | | | Variation in raw waste (See a. in notes below) | 0 - 6 | | | Impact of septage or truck-hauled waste | 0 - 4 | | | **Preliminary treatment** | | | | Plant pumping of main flow / Lift stations / Modified | 3 | | | Screening, comminution | 3 | | | Grit Removal | 3 | | | Equalization | 1 | | | **Primary treatment** | | | | Primary clarifiers | 5 | | | Imhoff tanks or similar | 5 | | | **Secondary treatment** | | | | Fixed film reactor, e.g. RBC with secondary clarifiers | 10 | | | Activated sludge w. sec clarifiers (including ext aeration & oxidation ditch) | 15 | | | Stabilization ponds/lagoons/storage cells, no aeration | 5 | | | Stabilization ponds with aeration/Aerated lagoons | 8 | | | **Tertiary treatment** | | | | Polishing ponds for advanced waste treatment | 2 | | | Chemical/physical advanced waste treatment w/o secondary | 15 | | | Chemical/physical advanced waste treatment after secondary | 10 | | | Biological or chemical/biological advanced waste treatment | 12 | | | Nitrification by designed extended aeration only | 2 | | | Ion exchange for advanced waste treatment | 10 | | | RO, EDR and other membrane filtration techniques | 15 | | | Advanced waste treatment chemical recovery, carbon regeneration | 4 | | | Media filtration | 5 | | | **Additional Treatment Process** | | | | Chemical addition (2 points for a maximum of 6 points) | 0 - 6 | | | Dissolved air flotation (for other than sludge thickening) | 8 | | | Intermittent sand filter | 2 | | | Recirculating intermittent sand filter | 3 | | | Microscreens | 5 | | | Generation of oxygen | 5 | | | **Solids Handling** | | | | Solids stabilization | 5 | | | Gravity thickening | 2 | | | Mechanical dewatering | 8 | | | Anaerobic digestion of solids | 10 | | | Utilizing digester gas for heat or cogeneration | 5 | | | Aerobic digestion of solids | 6 | | | Evaporative sludge drying | 2 | | | Solids reduction (incl. incineration, wet oxidation) | 12 | | | On-site landfill for solids | 2 | | | Solids composting | 10 | | | Land application of biosolids by contractor | 2 | | | Land application of biosolids under direction of facility DRO | 10 | | | **Disinfection (min. 0 to max. 10)** | | | | Chlorination or UV radiation | 5 | | | Ozonation | 10 | | | **Effluent disposal (min. 0 – max. 10)** | | | | Direct recycle and reuse | 6 | | | Continuous discharge into water body | 6 | | | Controlled or intermittent discharge into a receiving water body | 4 | | | Controlled or intermittent discharge - Overland / Wetlands | 2 | | | Effluent irrigation | 4 | | | Evaporation | 2 | | | Subsurface | 4 | | | **Facility Characteristics** | | | | Instrumentation (see b. in table below) | 0 - 6 | | | **Laboratory Control** | | | | Bacteriological/biological (see c. in notes below) | 0 - 5 | | | Chemical/physical (see d. in notes below) | 0 - 10 | | | **Total Points** | | | **Notes:** 1. **Points for variation in raw waste quality (0 – 10 points)** > The key concept is the frequency and/or intensity of deviation or excessive variation from normal or typical variations. Such variations can be in terms of strength , toxicity, shock loads, I/I, with points from 0 – 6. Of the raw water source. Suggested point values are: > > 0 - Variations do not exceed those normally or typically expected 2 - Recurring deviations or excessive deviations of 100 – 200% in strength and/or flow > > 4 - Recurring deviations or excessive deviations of more than 200% in strength and/or flow > > 6 - Raw wastes subject to toxic waste discharges > > **b. Facility Characteristics Instrumentation** **(0 – 6 points)** > > 0 - The use of SCADA or similar instrumentation systems to provide data with no process operation > > 2 – The use of SCADA or similar instrumentation systems to provide data with limited process operation > > 4 – The use of SCADA or similar instrumentation systems to provide data with moderate process operation > > 6 – The use of SCADA or similar instrumentation systems to provide data with extensive or total process operation > > **Laboratory control (0 – 15 points)** Laboratory analyses done on-site by plant personnel under the direction of the DRO 3. **Bacteriological/biological (0 – 5 points)** > 0 - Lab work done outside the plant > > 3 - Membrane filter procedures > > 5 - Use of fermentation tubes or any dilution method; fecal coliform determination 4. **Chemical/physical (0 – 10 points)** > 0 **-** Lab work done outside the plant 3 - Push-button or visual methods for simple tests such as pH, settleable solids 5 - Additional procedures such as DO COD, BOD, gas analysis, titrations, solids, volatile content 7 - More advanced determinations such as specific constituents; nutrients, total oils, phenols 10 - Highly sophisticated instrumentation such as atomic absorption, gas chromatography # Appendix E: Education and Experience Requirements for Certification[^6]
Class Education Required Experience Required Substitutions

Secondary

(Note 1)

Post Secondary

(Note 2)

 Operating DRO Education Experience
OIT Grade 12 or equivalent N/A N/A N/A Note 3 N/A
Small Systems Grade 10 or equivalent N/A 50 hours over 6 months N/A Note 3 N/A
1 Grade 12 or equivalent Entry level training (70 hrs) 1 year N/A Note 3 Note 4
2 Grade 12 or equivalent N/A 3 years N/A Note 3 Note 4
3 Grade 12 or equivalent 2 years or 90 CEUs 4 years Class 2 or higher 2 years Class 2 or higher Note 3 Note 4
One year of experience equates to the following: - 46 weeks; or - 230 days; or - 1800 hours **Notes:** 1. Grade 12 equivalence: the following are accepted as equivalent to high school graduation: 1. The Canadian Adult Education Credential[^7] or GED diploma. 2. Post secondary assessment by a professional qualified to assess education status; 3. Successful completion of relevant trades program (trade qualified); 4. Successful completion of post-secondary degree program from a recognised institution; or 5. Successful completion of diploma program from a recognised institution; or 6. Operational experience in a water facility: 1. Small Systems: 0.5 years of experience for every grade level below grade 10 completed (e.g., 0.5 years for grade 9, 1 year for grade 8, etc.) 2. OIT, Classes 1 – 3: One year of experience for each grade level below grade 12 completed to a maximum of 2 years (i.e., 1 year for grade 11 completion; 2 years for grade 10 completion). 2. Post Secondary Education: the following are acceptable for post-secondary requirements: 1. Successful completion of a relevant trades program (if not used for Grade 12 equivalency); 2. Successful completion of post-secondary degree program from a recognised institution; 3. Successful completion of diploma program from a recognised institution; 4. Partial completion of relevant trades, post-secondary degree, or diploma programs or completion of relevant short courses; or 5. Correspondence courses from a recognised institution Post secondary course work will be broadly related to the duties of a water systems operator. Acceptable programs for post-secondary requirements include the following: - Degree programs including, but not limited to: Science, Engineering, Biology, Agriculture, Chemistry, Laboratory Studies, Mathematics, Hydrogeology, Physics; - Diploma programs including, but not limited to: Environmental Technician/Technologist, Applied Science and Technology, Laboratory Studies; - Academic portion of applicable trades, including, but not limited to: Plumbing, Electrical, Instrumentation, Mechanics, Millwright, Power Engineering; - Relevant course work related to the treatment, delivery, and collection of water and collection of wastewater; - Completion of other 4-year degree programs may be accepted (maximum of 450 hours). 3. Substitutions: Experience for Education 1. OIT, Small Systems, Class 1 & 2: refer to Note 1. f) 2. Class 3: Up to 50 percent of the post-secondary requirements can be substituted with Direct Responsible Operator (DRO) experience, in addition to the experience required for that level. DRO experience may only be gained after an operator obtains Level 2 Certification. 4. Substitutions: Education for Experience 1. Class 1: No substitutions are allowed to meet the experience requirements 2. Class 2 & 3: Valid education credits can be used for 50 percent of the experience requirement for that class. 1. Class 2: maximum of 675 contact hours (68 CEUs) or 45 semester credits may be substituted for a maximum of 1.5 years of experience. 2. Class 3: maximum of 900 contact hours (90 CEUs) or 60 semester credits may be substituted for a maximum of 2 years of experience. # Appendix F: Continuing Education Unit Specifics[^8] **Criteria for CEU Acceptance** Courses accepted for CEUs shall meet the following criteria: 1) Attendance recorded by training provider 2) Formal certificate or completion letter by the training provider 3) Students complete some form of evaluation (test, practical demonstration, verbal confirmation) 4) Content of course is linked to FNOCC (SFNWA’s customized exams) Need-to-Know Criteria and FNOCC relevancy/approved topics lists 5) Learning objectives completed 6) Course evaluation forms completed 7) Instructors meet certain criteria (experience or other) Water and wastewater industry conferences or workshops may be exempt from some or all of these criteria. **Determination of CEU Value** One (1.0) CEU shall equal 10 contact hours of participation in organized continuing education/training experience under the direction of a responsible, qualified instructor. Breaks and non-supervised or organized activities that do not meet the CEU acceptance criteria will not count towards the CEU value. A maximum of 0.7 CEUs can be issued for each full day of training. **Course Auditing** CEU courses will be audited by the FNOCC according to the criteria listed above. Course evaluation forms are to be submitted to the FNOCC through the organization website. **Acceptance of Training Completed Out of Province** Courses approved by other provinces/territories following these best practices shall be accepted at the same CEU value (subject to the same restrictions which may apply for similar training in that province or territory). **Stipulations** The FNOCC does not award CEUs for the following: - Mass media programs that are not part of an educational program - On-the-job training, apprenticeships and work experience - Writing or presenting articles or research papers - Association nomination and election sessions - Work related staff and committee meetings - Association business meetings and reports - Announcements and welcoming speeches - Self-directed study without verification - Assigned reading and study time - Entertainment and recreation - Trade shows and exhibitions - Coffee and meal breaks - Tours and travel time - Report writing A minimum of 75 percent of training taken by an operator must be on core subject matter related to the operation and maintenance of the water system for which the certification was issued. Up to 25 percent will be on related knowledge and skills such as management, safety, etc. not directly related to operations. Mandatory safety training courses (WHMIS, TDG, First Aid, Confined Space, etc.) can be used for continuing education units (CEUs) for renewal of certification, but only up to 25 percent of required CEUs. Training will only be accepted if the operator successfully completes or passes the course. Courses taken more than once (including safety training) shall only be approved once per renewal period. [^1]: The FNOCC recommends that an operator or operator-in-training meet the full certification requirements, including operating experience, prior to challenging an examination. [^2]: Adapted from Water Security Agency. Dec 2016. Saskatchewan Water and Wastewater Works Operator Certification Standards. [^3]: Adapted from Water Security Agency. Dec 2016. Saskatchewan Water and Wastewater Works Operator Certification Standards [^4]: Adapted from Water Security Agency. Dec 2016. Saskatchewan Water and Wastewater Works Operator Certification Standards. [^5]: Adapted from Water Security Agency. Dec 2016. Saskatchewan Water and Wastewater Works Operator Certification Standards. [^6]: Adapted from Newfoundland & Labrador Canada. No date. Operator Education and Experience Requirements for Certification, Environment and Climate Change. Accessed Feb 28, 2025 from https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/waterres/training/operator-certification/requirements/ [^7]: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/jobs-working-and-training/job-training-and-financial-support-programs/canadian-adult-education-credential#further-information [^8]: Adapted from Water Security Agency. Dec 2016. Saskatchewan Water and Wastewater Works Operator Certification Standards.