Free Online One-Day Basics Course for SWS Operators
The course is designed for SWS operators, this free one-day course covers the basics of water system operation and maintenance, water testing and other regulations, waterborne disease, water treatment for small systems and recordkeeping. The class also reviews the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments, the State Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund, and water system security issues.
You must complete the one day course and pass the exam, with a 70% or better, in order to apply for a SWS certificaiton.
Note: Distribution or Treatment operators who are certified at Levels 1-4 can be the operator for a small water system and do not need to complete the one day course or the exam. The water system still needs to complete a new SWS operator application form every 3 years and submit it to the State.
Course Schedule
The Oregon Association of Water Utilities (OAWU) is currently offering the course virtually several times a year.
Exams
Effective August 1, 2022, tests are required for anyone seeking to be eligible for assignment as DRC for a small water system. Certificates for a passing exam score of 70% or higher will be provided by email.
Exams are in person and are offered at several locations around Oregon. You can schedule your exam by using our
online form. Certificates for a passing exam score of 70% or higher will be provided by email.
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Schedule your SWS exam
Course Credit
Upon course completion, attendees receive a certificate of attendance showing 0.6 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).