OAR 340-049-0005: Preface

(1) The purpose of these rules is to help protect public health, the environment, and the water resources of Oregon by establishing requirements regarding certification of wastewater system (sewage treatment works) operators. The principal objectives of the rules are to: (a) Establish criteria for classifying wastewater treatment and collection systems; (b) Define the requirements and fees for wastewater system owners whose systems must be supervised by an operator certified under these rules; (c) Define the minimum qualifications for certifying wastewater system operating personnel and supervisors; (d) Define the requirements and fees for persons who apply for certification, including examination requirements, renewal certification and certification through reciprocity; (e) Establish criteria for variances; (f) Establish penalties for violations of these rules; (g) Establish fees for operator certification; and (h) Encourage an adequate number of qualified wastewater system operators that are certified to operate and maintain wastewater treatment or wastewater collection systems in Oregon. (2) All persons who meet the minimum qualifications for certificate types and grades can be certified under these rules. All wastewater system personnel are encouraged to apply for certification at the highest grade consistent with their qualification. Maintenance and laboratory personnel in wastewater systems are encouraged to participate in the respective voluntary certification programs.