When faced with a licensing exam, don't struggle with test anxiety! Use the question below and others from our Exam Study Guide series to study and prepare for exam questions. Take a look at this sample water treatment licensing question along with an explanation of the correct answer.

Sample question:

How should a lead and copper sample be collected?

A) Always collect a first-draw sample where the water has been in the pipes for at least six hours
B) After the kitchen faucet has been flushed for one minute
C) After the bathroom faucet has been flushed for five minutes
D) Always collect from a tap that is never used and flush the line for five minutes

Answer: Always collect a first-draw sample after the water has been in the pipes for at least six hours and from a faucet that is frequently used for consumption. If the water is corrosive, it will have time to dissolve the lead or copper that might be in the distribution system.

So, the correct answer is A.

Reference: Water Treatment Plant Operation. 5th Edition, Volume ll, California State University, Sacramento. Page 570

About the author
Drew Hoelscher is the program director of drinking water operations at the Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC) in Edwardsville, Illinois.