Welcome back to TPO magazine's Exam Study Guide Series, which offers a pair of water/wastewater study questions with in-depth explanations of the answers. Last time, we covered a set of wastewater and drinking water treatment questions on the topics of activated sludge treatment parameters and chlorine dioxide. This time you can test your knowledge about excessive odors and identifying illegal water usage from hydrants.

Wastewater Treatment Sample Question

While using sand beds to dry sludge, what is the probable cause of excessive odors when sludge is applied, and what is the best solution?

A. Clogged wedge wires in underdrain, and high pressure spray at discharge point
B. Over-digested sludge, and change digester temperature settings
C. Inadequate digestion of sludge, and correct digestion problem
D. Inadequate polymer mixing, and allow more mixing before sludge application

Water Treatment Sample Question

What assembly will protect the water main from a fire suppression system and identify illegal water usage from the fire suppression waterline?

A. DCV
B. RPZ
C. AVB
D. RPDA 

To see answers for both of the above questions, click this link.

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About the authors: Rick Lallish is the Water Pollution Control program director at the Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC) of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. He provides training for entry-level operators in the wastewater field and operators throughout the state looking to further their education. Lallish was also named the 2017 Illinois Operator of the Year and 2018 president of the Illinois Association of Water Pollution Control Operators.

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