At a facility dedicated to processing wastewater and protecting water supplies, a water treatment specialist keeps an eye on things. Inspections of businesses, homes, and other structures that discharge into a treatment plant can also be part of this work to ensure that their systems are up to code and operating properly. Working conditions can be difficult because people are frequently required to work outside, often in inclement weather, and the environment can contain strong odors and chemicals. Water treatment specialists can work for both government and private companies.
When a new facility is being built, this job may include site preparation and setup. Although civil engineers are important in the process of site inspection and selection, as well as facility design, a water treatment specialist can also be involved. Specialists may be trained to set up and break down facilities on their own to support operations in settings such as the military, where temporary water treatment may be required for projects and installations. These individuals must consider the best location after taking into account factors such as transportation costs and human health.
A water treatment specialist inspects equipment at a facility on a regular basis to ensure it is in good working order. Workers can adjust settings to accommodate changing conditions. They also look for mechanical obstructions that could obstruct processing and other indicators that something is wrong at a facility. Chemical test kits can also be used by the water treatment specialist to test the water. These tests reveal whether the water has been properly processed and can also reveal the presence of contaminants of concern.
Inspections of grease traps and drains in facilities such as biological research labs can be part of a water treatment plant’s site inspections for customers. The water treatment expert wants to make sure everything is up to code and working properly. If they are not, they may cause problems at the plant; for example, grease from restaurant drains may disrupt bacterial populations, cause clogs, and emit offensive odors. Hazardous medical waste in the system, on the other hand, could contaminate water supplies.
Water treatment specialists also look after supplies of fresh, potable water. They keep an eye on the water’s quality, control the flow of supplies, and keep an eye on any potential dangers. Biological contaminants introduced by accident during processing, as well as deliberate interference with the water supply, are examples.