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 F/M Ratios and Chemical Concentrations. This time you can test your knowledge about soil amendment regulations and the UCMR 5.
Wastewater Treatment Sample Question
According to U.S. EPA Part 503 regulations, which type of sludge may be used as soil amendment and/or fertilizer for growing various crops (with some restrictions)?
A. Class A biosolids
B. Class B biosolids
C. Both/either
D. Neither
Water Treatment Sample Question
What contaminant(s) does the fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) focus on and when is the sampling period?
A. Nanomaterials, 2023-2025
B. PFAS and Lithium, 2023-2025
C. Legionella bacteria, 2024-2025
D. Nitrosamines, 2025-2026
To see answers for both of the above questions, click this link.
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.
