Courses
The Georgia Water and Wastewater Institute is a subsidiary of the Georgia Association of Water Professionals, dedicated to improving professional ability through training. Courses are State Certification Board approved for basic training, advanced training and re-certification points. Not all courses are offered continually. Please check our course schedule for current course offerings.
Course Descriptions
Activated Sludge Part I
12 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (2-day) advanced course for operators of activated sludge plants. It is designed to help operators understand the basic operations and control of activated sludge processes.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Overview of Suspended Media Treatment
- Modifications of Activated Sludge Processes
- Unit Processes & Their Functions
- Long Term Process Control
- Math Application to System Operation
Activated Sludge Part II
12 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (2-day) advanced course for operators of activated sludge plants. It is designed to build on the Introduction to Activated Sludge Processes course and give more in depth detail on process control methods.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Short Term Process Control
- Oxygen Uptake Rate
- Sludge Quality
- Practical Application of Data
Advanced Pipeline
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & MT)
Objectives: During this (1-day) course students will identify and discuss various system appurtenances, proper installation, routine maintenance, and correct utilization. The students will also learn about public health concerns related to potable and non-potable water through identification and elimination of cross connections.
Topics:
- Chemical selection for corrosion/root control
- Hydraulics
- Valves
- Cross Connection Control
- Storage Tanks (elevated and wet well)
Backflow 1-Day Renewal
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & BF)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) workshop is intended to review individuals on the fundamental knowledge of how backflow occurs and how backflow/cross connection hazards can be identified and corrected. This course is designed as a refresher for individuals preparing for backflow tester recertification, and is best suited only for individuals currently holding an active Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers Certificate.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- New Equipment
- Cross Connection Theory
- Refinements in Testing Techniques
- Discussion of Problems
- Hands-on practice in the lab.
Backflow For Program Administrators
Water & Wastewater – 12 Hours – 12 Credits (W & WW & BF)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (2-day) discussion based workshop designed for Backflow Program Administrators, which will focus on developing, implementing, and maintaining a local backflow program.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Standard Plumbing Codes
- Performing a Cross-Connection Survey
- Results of Non-Compliance
- Cross Connection Control Terminology
- Public Water Supplier’s Legal Responsibilities
Backflow Prevention Assembly Repair
6 Hours – 6 Points (BF)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This 1-Day course examines the core responsibilities of the tester as related to failing backflow devices. A laboratory session is included to allow for teh diagnostic evaluation, disassembly, and repair of on-site devices.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Causes of failures
- Repair criteria
- Use of repair parts
- Device troubleshooting
- Reporting requirements
- Repair safety
- Tester ethics
Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Training
32 Hours – 12 Points (W & WW & BF)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) workshop will give individuals the fundamental knowledge of how backflow occurs and how backflow/cross connection hazards can be identified and corrected. This is a hands-on workshop where the students will learn to test a variety of devices in preparation for the Georgia Backflow Certification Exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Causes of Backflow Occurrences
- Protective Backflow Prevention Measures
- Proper Installation of Backflow Preventers
- RPZ, DC, & PVB Testing Procedures
- When and Where to Use Backflow Devices
Basic Chemistry for Treatment Operators and Laboratory Analysts
12 Hours – 12 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is a 2-Day fundamental course that introduces basic chemistry concepts to Water & Wastewater Treatment Operators and Laboratory Analysts. Its purpose is to reinforce and improve the chemistry knowledge that is acquired in Basic Treatment and Analyst Courses. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of chemical reactions, mathematical solution chemistry and water chemistry
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Introduction to Chemistry
- Measurements
- Atomic Structure, Elements, Compounds
- Chemical Equations
- Acids & Bases
- Colloids and Coagulation
- Organic Chemistry
- Gases
- Chemistry of Water Treatment
Basic Maintenance Technologist
24 Hours – 12 Points (W & WW & MT)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (3-Day) course.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Basic Hydraulics
- Cross Connection
- Water Quality, Sampling, & Analysis
- Backflow Device Troubleshooting
- Pumps
- Level Control and Flow Recording
- Engines, Motors, & Drives
- Lubrication
- Valves
- Electrical, Breakers, & Fuses
- Confined Space
Basic Pipeline
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & MT)
OBJECTIVES: This (1-day) course will Introduce the student to basic pipeline construction, design, operation, and maintenance techniques. Students will learn major system components and appurtenances, the role of each in proper operation, installation guidelines, and troubleshooting, as well as industry standard safety practices.
Major TOPICS:
- System Design
- Various types of Pipes
- Joints
- Pipe Protection
- Pipe Installation Procedure & Maintenance
- Mathematics
BOD Workshop
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Procedure for Dechlorinating B.O.D. Samples
Class II Drinking Water Laboratory
24 Hours – 12 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) course is designed to educate and assist those people currently working in water treatment operations and preparing for the Class II Water Treatment Plant Operator certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Plant Operation
- Sampling
- Process Control vs. Regulatory Reporting
- Solution Chemistry
- Calibration
- QA/QC
- Safety
- Hands on Procedures
Class II Drinking Water Treatment
24 Hours – 12 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) course examines water treatment facilities with an emphasis on water analysis, treatment optimization, and current and proposed regulations. It builds on information learned in the Fundamentals class related to processes required to treat potable water and the importance of maintaining each unit process to maintain water quality.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Water Chemistry
- Preliminary Treatment Chemicals
- Coagulation/Flocculation
- Jar Testing
- Filter Optimization
- Disinfection
- Water Plant Safety
Class III Drinking Water Treatment
40 Hours – 12 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (5-day) course contains information on water sources and characteristics, factors influencing water demand, and the development of water sources. It examines the operations and problems associated with water treatment and the importance of optimizing each unit process to maintain water quality.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Water Sources & Characteristics
- Aeration, Chemical Oxidation, & Taste & Odor Control
- Water Quality, Sampling, & Analysis
- Coagulation/Flocculation
- Filtration
- Disinfection & Chlorination
- Distribution Systems Overview
- Fluoridation
Class IV Drinking Water Treatment
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) course contains information on Georgia’s groundwater sources, including types of aquifers and wells, groundwater protection, water treatment, and proper operation of a small water plant under state and federal guidelines.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Groundwater Resources in Georgia
- The Safe Drinking Water Act
- Monitoring Requirements
- Basic Mathematics
Class II Wastewater Laboratory
24 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) course is designed for people currently working in wastewater treatment operations and preparing for the Class II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Plant Operation
- Sampling
- Process Control vs. Regulatory Reporting
- Solution Chemistry
- Calibration
- QA/QC
- Safety
- Hands on Procedures
Class II Wastewater Treatment
24 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) course builds on “Fundamentals of Wastewater Treatment” It includes more in-depth review of wastewater processes and operations.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Suspended Media Treatment
- Mathematical Calculations
- Secondary Treatment
- Sludge Treatment
- Disinfection
Class III Wastewater Treatment
40 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (5-day) introductory course on wastewater, with an overview of the operation and maintenance of wastewater plants and different treatment processes.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Wastewater Mathematics
- Activated Sludge Process
- Natural Treatment Systems
- Disinfection
- Solids Handling
Class IV Small Wastewater Treatment
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (1-day) introductory course on wastewater, with an emphasis on biological pond systems.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Wastewater Characteristics
- Pond Life (Bacteria/Algae)
- Pond Sampling
- Pond Operation & Maintenance
- Troubleshooting
Collection System Operation and Maintenance
27 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (4-day) entry level course designed to teach the student about various aspects of operating a wastewater collection system.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Collection System Math
- Collection System Components
- System Maintenance
- Safety
- Pumps & Pumping
Confined Space Entry
6 Hours – 6 Points (M&S & MT)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) course will introduce class participants to the definition of a confined space.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Osha Standards
- Identifying hazards
- Entry permits
- Safety procedures
Distribution Systems Operation and Maintenance
27 Hours – 12 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) course examines the system facilities and procedure used to distribute treated water to consumers. Desired outcome of this course is a working understanding of why procedures are performed and facilities are used within a distribution system.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Pipe Materials
- Pipe Installation
- Fire Hydrants
- Valves
- Cross Connection Control
- Water Storage
- Services & Meters
- Pumps
- Water Quality & Sampling
Distribution Systems Review
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (1-day) review on basic distribution system construction, design, operation, and maintenance techniques. Students will identify and discuss various distribution system pipes and appurtenances, proper installation, routine maintenance, and correct utilization. The students will also learn about public health concerns related to potable and non-potable water through identification and elimination of cross connections.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Distribution System Components
Pipes
Couplings
Pipe installation
Hydrants
Valves
Backflow prevention storage
Services
Meters
Pumps
Sampling - Distribution System Safety
Drinking Water Math Part I
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) course involves practices in applying basic math skills in calculations used in water treatment operations. This is an introductory course designed to guide students in preparation for learning and applying more advanced mathematics.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Solving Math Problems
- Solving for an Unknown
- Linear, Area, & Volume Measurements
- Conversions
- How to Solve Word Problems
- The Pounds Formula
- Calculated Dosages
Drinking Water Math Part II
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) course involves practices in applying basic math skills in calculations used in water treatment operations. This is an applied course designed to guide students in preparation for learning and applying advanced mathematics both in the water treatment plant as well as during examination situations.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Math Review
- Coagulation Math
- Chemical Feeders (Liquid & Dry)
- Clarification (SOR, WOR, DT)
- Chlorination Calculations
- Fluoride Math
- Filtration
- Pipes & Flow Rates
- Hydraulics/Motors & Pumps
Drinking Water Laboratory Analyst
30 Hours – 12 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (5-day) course is designed to educate and assist those people currently working in a water laboratory or for certification exam preparation.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Plant Operation
- Sampling
- Process Control vs. Regulatory Reporting
- Solution Chemistry
- Calibration
- QA/QC
- Safety
- Hands on Procedures
Drinking Water Laboratory Methods Plus Jar Testing
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Laboratory method Introduction
- Process control tests
- Jar testing
Drinking Water Microbiology
18 Hours – 12 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (3-day) course is designed for people currently working in a microbiology laboratory analyzing drinking water or those who have previous laboratory experience.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Lab Facilities & Equipment
- General Lab Practices
- Analytical Methodology
- Sample Collection, Handling & Preservation
- Quality Assurance
- Record Keeping
- Response to Results
- Approved Coliform Testing Procedures will be Performed in the Lab
Drinking Water Regulations and Compliance
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Safe Drinking Water Act Regulations
- Georgia Surface Water MOR
Drinking Water Sampling
6 Hours – 6 Points (W)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Sampling Methods and Practice
- Contamination Detection & Prevention
- Sample Collection Equipment
- Statistical Understanding of Sampling
- Sampling Procedures & Documentation
Electrical Concepts
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & MT)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) class designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Introduction to Electrical Components
- Circuit Design and Evaluation
- Assessment Tools
- Electrical & Signaling Processing
FOG Program and SSO Reporting
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a of 1-Day class designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Theory
- Process
- Operation
- Equipment
- Chemicals
- Maintenance
- Safety
- Troubleshooting
Fundamental Laboratory Techniques
18 Hours – 12 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (3-day) entry level course designed for people with little or no laboratory experience.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Analytical Standards & Reagents
- Balances
- Laboratory Ware
- Volumetric Devices
- Temperature Measurement
- Preparing Solutions & Dilutions
- Calibration
Industrial Wastewater Treatment
27 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (4-day) introductory course on industrial wastewater treatment, with an overview of basic and advanced treatment technologies and operations.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Wastewater Mathematics
- Pretreatment Standards
- Chemical Treatment
- Metals Removal
- Safety
Instrumentation and Calibration
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & MT)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (1-Day) class designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Basic Electronics
- Process Instrumentation & Control System Overview
- Water Measurement
- Level Controls
Laboratory Quality Assurance
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) course is designed to explain topics related to Quality Assurance and to assist in better understanding a working Quality Assurance program.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- QA/QC
- Lab Organization
- Sampling
- Analytical Methodology
- Calibration
- Preventative Maintenance
- Data Quality Objectives
- Corrective Action
Laboratory Mathematics
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-day) course is designed to expand on math and chemistry subjects related specifically to laboratory functions.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Step by step approaches to math problems
- Conversions
- Basic Chemistry
- Sample Problems
- Review of Sample Problems & Correct Approach of Those Problems
PM Program and Lubrication for Operators
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & MT)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Preventative Maintenance & Lubrication for Operators & Mechanics
- What is Preventive Maintenance?
- Maintenance Execution & Shutdowns
- Maintenance & Renewal of Water, Sewer, & Storm Water Systems
- The Basics of Lubricants & Lubrication
- Bearings
Process Control Review
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Activated Sludge Modifications
- Overview of Activated Sludge Treatment
- Process Control Overview
- Operator Measurements
Pumping Systems
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW & MT)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Pumps & Prime Movers
- Valves
- Levels Control
Sampling Procedures for Wastewater
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Sampling Methods and Practice
- Sample Collection Equipment
- Statistical Understanding of Sampling
- Industrial Wastewater Sampling
- Sampling Documentation
Solids Handling
6 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam. This is an overview of several different methods of dewatering solids from the wastewater treatment process.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Biosolids Treatment, Disposal, & Remediation
- Dewatering
- Coagulant Selection and Use
- Sludge Thickening
Wastewater Collection Systems Review
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Introduction to Collection Systems
- Collection System Design
- General Maintenance and Repair
- Components of a Wastewater Collection System
- Collection System Safety
Wastewater Laboratory Analyst
30 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (5-day) course is designed to educate and assist those people currently working in a wastewater laboratory or for certification exam preparation.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Plant Operation
- Sampling
- Process Control vs. Regulatory Reporting
- Solution Chemistry
- Calibration
- QA/QC
- Safety
- Hands on Procedures
Wastewater Math Part I
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a (1-day) introductory course on wastewater math with an overview of basic arithmetical skills to include some elementary algebra and geometry.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Solve for Area
- Solve for Volume
- Basic Conversions
- Interpretation of Written Problems
- Process Control Application
Wastewater Math Part II
12 Hours – 12 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (2-day) course is designed to teach students to apply basic math skills to calculations used in operating wastewater treatment plants.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Activated Sludge Math
- Trickling Filter Math
- Digestion & Dewatering Math
- Collection System Math
- Pumping Math
Wastewater Regulations and Compliance
6 Hours – 6 Points (WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (1-Day) class is designed to refresh the operator who is already certified or is preparing to take a certification exam.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Signatory and Certification Requirements
- Regulations
Water Utility Inspection Part I
15 Hours – 6 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (2 1/2-day) course is an introductory course on the inspection of distribution and collection system piping and connections with an overview of basic system design parameters. It examines the problems associated with improper installations and the importance of maintaining quality to maintain system integrity.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Basic Construction Concepts
- Rules & Regulations
- Contractor Relations
- Job Site Safety
- Basic Site Plan Reading
Water Utility Management
24 Hours – 12 Points (W & WW)
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This (4-day) course is designed to cover management concepts for the front-line supervisor as well as the utility manager of water and wastewater systems. The course is centered around common examples and situations experienced in the water and wastewater industry.
MAJOR TOPICS:
- Planning
- Organizing
- Directing
- Communication
- Problem Solving