Title of Regulation: 18VAC160-20. Board for Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators Regulations (amending 18VAC160-20-10, 18VAC160-20-90, 18VAC160-20-95, 18VAC160-20-106, 18VAC160-20-109, 18VAC160-20-120 through 18VAC160-20-150; repealing 18VAC160-20-85).

Statutory Authority: §§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Hearing Information:

April 15, 2009 - 10 a.m. - Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, 9960 Mayland Drive, 2nd Floor, Richmond, VA

Public Comments: Public comments may be submitted until April 17, 2009.

Agency Contact: David E. Dick, Executive Director, Board for Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA 23233-1485, telephone (804) 367-2648, FAX (804) 527-4297, or email waterwasteoper@dpor.virginia.gov.

Basis: Section 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia states that the board has the power and duty "to promulgate regulations in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) necessary to assure continued competency, to prevent deceptive or misleading practices by practitioners and to effectively administer the regulatory system administered by the regulatory board. The regulations shall not be in conflict with the purposes and intent of this chapter or of Chapters 1 (§ 54.1-100 et seq.) and 3 (§ 54.1-300 et seq.) of this title."

Section 54.1-2301 B of the Code of Virginia states that the board shall examine operators and issue licenses. The licenses may be issued in specific operator classifications to attest to the competency of an operator to supervise and operate waterworks and wastewater works while protecting the public health, welfare and property and conserving and protecting the water resources of the Commonwealth.

Purpose: The technology used to treat water and wastewater continues to evolve over time. For this reason, the board decided that a thorough review of its existing regulations in light of current industry practice is necessary. That need is best illustrated by the college degrees and degree programs designed to prepare students to work in the environmental protection field. Many, if not most, of these degree fields did not exist or were very new when the board last conducted a general review of its regulations. The same is true of the facility classification standards in the current regulations. A review will identify any necessary modifications to reflect current practice and assure operation by competent individuals.

Substance: 18VAC160-20-10 is amended to clarify definitions that differentiate between waterworks and wastewater works licensees as well as expand on the definition of "structured training activity."

18VAC160-20-85 is repealed because the time period affecting restricted Class VI waterworks licenses has expired.

18VAC160-20-90 is amended to include all specific qualifications for licensure of both waterworks and wastewater works operators. The amendments replace Roman numerals with Arabic numerals, specify the requirements for experience verification, expand education to included master’s degrees as well as related science degrees, and modify the experience and experience substitution requirements.

18VAC160-20-95 is amended to emphasize that only nonclassified facility operation experience is applicable to provisional licensure.

18VAC160-20-106 is amended to specify that the regulant’s act of submitting to renew a license is the equivalent of an implied declaration that he has already fulfilled the board’s continued professional education (CPE) requirement.

18VAC160-20-109 is amended to include CPE for all regular and provisional licensed facility operators. The amendments also specify that CPE must be appropriate to the license held and safety subjects may not count for more than one-half of the CPE requirement. The amendments extend the amount of time a regulant is required to maintain CPE completion records, eliminate the possibility of using the same CPE course for credit more than once during a license cycle, and provide CPE credit for course instructors.

18VAC160-20-120 is amended to replace Roman numerals with Arabic numerals and to specify the particular type of waterworks facilities that may be operated by a Class 1 waterworks licensee.

18VAC160-20-130 is amended to replace Roman numerals with Arabic numerals and to specify the particular type of wastewater works facilities that may be operated by a Class 1 wastewater works licensee.

18VAC160-20-140 is amended to clarify the scope of the board’s disciplinary authority over fraudulent attempts to obtain or renew a license.

18VAC160-20-150 is amended to replace Roman numerals with Arabic numerals, remove self-assessment as a course completion requirement, and specify that other assessment techniques must be similar to the aforementioned assessment techniques within the section.

Issues: The primary advantage to the public is the assurance that, as the relevant technology continues to advance, waterworks and wastewater works facilities in Virginia will continue to be operated by individuals whose education and experience includes the relevant changes in technology. These changes are best illustrated by the need for some $1.4 billion in upgrades to approximately 120 wastewater facilities located in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed to meet EPA water quality improvement standards. Therefore, minimally competent individuals will continue to operate those facilities assuring the continued protection of the health and welfare of the citizens of the Commonwealth.

The primary advantage to the Commonwealth will be the continued successful regulation of competent and licensed individuals operating waterworks and wastewater works facilities throughout Virginia. No disadvantage has been identified.

The proposed amendments allow applicants to meet the licensing educational requirements with degrees in specific as well as related science fields pertinent to the waterworks and wastewater works industry. This may expand the scope of potential applicants while simultaneously ensuring competent applicants and licensees.

The Department of Planning and Budget's Economic Impact Analysis:

Summary of the Proposed Amendments to Regulation. The Board for Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals (Board) propose to: 1) add continuing professional education (CPE) as a requirement for wastewater works operator license renewal; 2) limit safety subjects to at most half of qualifying CPE (for both waterworks operator licenses and wastewater works operator licenses); 3) allow the teaching of CPE courses to apply toward CPE credit; 4) allow the development of CPE courses to apply toward CPE credit; 5) add distance learning to the definition of “Structured training activity"; 6) repeal obsolete, repetitive, and contradictory language; and 7) make clarifying changes.

Result of Analysis. The benefits likely exceed the costs for all proposed changes.

Estimated Economic Impact. In order to comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements waterworks operators have been required to complete CPE via these regulations since 2001. According to the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), since 2001 it has been anticipated that EPA would make the same requirement for wastewater works operators. EPA has yet to do so.

Nevertheless, the technology associated with wastewater management has been advancing and is expected to continue to advance at a rapid pace. According to DPOR, $1.4 billion dollars in upgrades to approximately 120 wastewater facilities located in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed are now needed to meet EPA water quality improvement standards. Wastewater works operator license holders will need additional training in order to assure continuing operator competency to operate the new technology and, thereby, protect the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and the public. Not all of Virginia is in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, but wastewater works in other parts of the Commonwealth will likely upgrade their technology as well eventually, even if it is not as soon as in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Thus, the Board proposes to require that wastewater works operators complete CPE during each two-year renewal cycle in order to renew their license.

For each class of licensure, the proposed required amount of CPE per two-year renewal cycle is the same for both waterworks operators and wastewater works operators: 16 contact hours for Class 4, and 20 contact hours for Classes 1, 2, and 3. DPOR states that waterworks and wastewater facilities may conduct and document their own CPE training to meet the needs of their facility, and that training can apply toward the CPE contact hours required for license renewal. The agency also reports that for licensees taking outside CPE "The typical cost of continuing education is from $30 to $90 per contact hour." This works out to $480 to $1,440 for Class 4 licenses, and $600 to $1,800 for Classes 1, 2, and 3. The potential consequences of not requiring CPE for wastewater works operators include the contamination of public and private waters through inadequate work due to ignorance of proper procedures in use of new technology. A significant portion of wastewater works operators would likely keep up with the necessary knowledge to competently practice without the CPE requirement. The proposed requirement for CPE will likely increase that portion though. The increase in number of licensees who remain competent and the increase in depth of relevant knowledge for those who would have been competent anyway is not known; but the benefits from the reduced risk to water quality likely exceeds the costs.

The Board also proposes to limit safety-themed subjects to at most half of qualifying CPE (for both waterworks operator licenses and wastewater works operator licenses). The apparent reasoning is that there has been and should remain a significant emphasis on the important subject of safety, but that other areas that are necessary for competent practice may be overlooked if CPE is dominated by safety instruction. To the extent that this proposal encourages greater education in advancements in non-safety areas of waterworks and wastewater works operations without compromising safety, this proposal should create a net benefit.

Though the Board proposes to limit the amount of safety-themed qualifying CPE, it also proposes three additional methods of obtaining qualifying CPE: distance learning, the development of license-relevant CPE courses, and the teaching of license-relevant CPE courses. Currently Internet-based courses and other methods of distance learning are not accepted for CPE credit. Under the proposed regulations distance learning can qualify for CPE credit as long as it is determined that it meets all other CPE criteria. This proposed change is clearly beneficial in that it has the potential to reduce travel and time costs for licensees, and may allow relatively isolated licensees greater opportunity to take relevant courses. Developing a course and teaching a class both involve adding depth of understanding. Given that CPE courses developed and/or taught must be pertinent to the license in question to qualify for CPE credit, developing and teaching these courses add depth of knowledge in license-relevant topics. Thus, giving CPE credit for developing and teaching these courses increases knowledge relevant for protecting the public and the proposal creates net benefit.

Businesses and Entities Affected. The proposed amendments affect the 2,583 licensed wastewater works operators in the Commonwealth,¹ wastewater works facilities, colleges that offer instruction relevant to waterworks and wastewater works operations, and the public.

Localities Particularly Affected. The proposed amendments do not disproportionately affect particular localities.

Projected Impact on Employment. The proposal to require CPE for wastewater works operator license renewal may moderately increase employment for providers of such instruction.

Effects on the Use and Value of Private Property. The proposed amendments are unlikely to significantly affect the use and value of private property.

Small Businesses: Costs and Other Effects. As most waterworks operator licensees and wastewater works operator licensees work for public entities, and most license-relevant CPE courses are provided by public entities, the proposed amendments are unlikely to significantly affect small businesses.

Small Businesses: Alternative Method that Minimizes Adverse Impact. As most waterworks operator licensees and wastewater works operator licensees work for public entities, and most license-relevant CPE courses are provided by public entities, the proposed amendments are unlikely to significantly affect small businesses.

Real Estate Development Costs. The proposed amendments are unlikely to significantly affect real estate development costs.

Legal Mandate. The Department of Planning and Budget (DPB) has analyzed the economic impact of this proposed regulation in accordance with § 2.2-4007.04 of the Administrative Process Act and Executive Order Number 36 (06). Section 2.2-4007.04 requires that such economic impact analyses include, but need not be limited to, the projected number of businesses or other entities to whom the regulation would apply, the identity of any localities and types of businesses or other entities particularly affected, the projected number of persons and employment positions to be affected, the projected costs to affected businesses or entities to implement or comply with the regulation, and the impact on the use and value of private property. Further, if the proposed regulation has adverse effect on small businesses, § 2.2-4007.04 requires that such economic impact analyses include (i) an identification and estimate of the number of small businesses subject to the regulation; (ii) the projected reporting, recordkeeping, and other administrative costs required for small businesses to comply with the regulation, including the type of professional skills necessary for preparing required reports and other documents; (iii) a statement of the probable effect of the regulation on affected small businesses; and (iv) a description of any less intrusive or less costly alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the regulation. The analysis presented above represents DPB’s best estimate of these economic impacts.

_____________________

¹ Data Source: Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation

Agency's Response to the Department of Planning and Budget's Economic Impact Analysis: The agency agrees with the Department of Planning and Budget’s economic impact analysis.

Summary:

The proposed amendments (i) add continuing professional education (CPE) as a requirement for wastewater works operator license renewal; (ii) specify that safety subjects may not count for more than one-half of the CPE requirement for both waterworks operator licenses and wastewater works operator licenses; (iii) allow the development and teaching of CPE courses to apply toward CPE credit; (iv) clarify the scope of the board’s disciplinary authority over fraudulent attempts to obtain or renew a license; (v) delineate the types of waterworks and wastewater works facilities that may be operated by a Class 1 license holder; (vi) add distance learning to the definition of "structured training activity"; (vii) repeal the restricted Class VI waterworks license provisions; and (viii) make other changes for consistency and clarification purposes.

Part I
Definitions, Licensing and Classification Requirements

18VAC160-20-10. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Board" means the Board for Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals.

"Category" means the two divisions of waterworks and wastewater works operators' licenses, one being waterworks and the second being wastewater works.

"Classification" means the divisions of within each category of waterworks and wastewater works operators' licenses into classes where Class "I" "1" represents the highest classification.

"Classified facility" means a waterworks that has been granted a classification by the Virginia Department of Health or a wastewater works that has been granted a classification by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

"Contact hour" means 50 minutes of participation in a structured training activity.

"Continuing Professional Education (CPE)" means participation in a structured training activity that enables a licensed waterworks operator licensee to maintain and increase the competence required to assure the public's protection.

"Department" means the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.

"Experience" means time spent learning how to physically and theoretically operate the waterworks or wastewater works as an operator-in-training or time spent operating a waterworks or wastewater works for which the operator is currently licensed.

"Licensed operator" means an operator with a license in the category and with a classification equal to or higher than the classification of the waterworks or wastewater works being operated.

"Licensee" means an individual holding a valid license issued by the board.

"Licensure" means a method of regulation whereby the Commonwealth, through the issuance of a license, authorizes a person possessing the character and minimum skills to engage in the practice of a profession or occupation that is unlawful to practice without a license.

"Nonclassified facility" means a facility located in Virginia that has not been classified by the Virginia Department of Health or a facility that has not been classified by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

"Operate" means any act of an individual, which that may impact on the finished water quality at a waterworks or the plant effluent at a wastewater works.

"Operating staff" means individuals employed or appointed by an owner to work at a waterworks or wastewater works.

"Operator" means any individual employed or appointed by any owner, and who is designated by such owner to be the person in responsible charge, such as a supervisor, a shift operator, or a substitute in charge, and whose duties include testing or evaluation to control waterworks or wastewater works operations. Not included in this definition are superintendents or directors of public works, city engineers, or other municipal or industrial officials whose duties do not include the actual operation or direct supervision of waterworks or wastewater works.

"Operator-in-training" means an individual employed by an owner to work under the direct supervision and direction of an operator holding a valid license in the proper category and classification for the purpose of gaining experience and knowledge in the duties and responsibilities of an operator of a waterworks or wastewater works. An operator-in-training is not an operator.

"Owner" means the Commonwealth of Virginia, or any political subdivision thereof, any public or private institution, corporation, association, or any other entity organized or existing under the laws of this Commonwealth or of any other state or nation, or any person or group of persons acting individually or as a group, who own, manage, or maintain waterworks or wastewater works.

"Provisional licensee" means an individual holding a valid provisional license issued by the board.

"Provisional licensure" or "provisional license" means a method of regulation whereby the Commonwealth recognizes an individual as having met specific standards but who is not authorized to operate a classified facility until he has met the remaining requirements for licensure and has been issued a license.

"Renewal" means continuing the effectiveness of a license for another period of time.

"Responsible charge" means the designation by the owner of any individual to have the duty and the authority to operate a waterworks or wastewater works.

"Structured training activity" means a formal educational process designed to permit a participant to learn a given subject or subjects through interaction with an instructor in a course, seminar, conference, distance learning, or other performance-oriented format.

"Wastewater works" means a system of (i) sewerage systems or sewage treatment works serving more than 400 persons, as set forth in § 62.1-44.18 of the Code of Virginia; (ii) sewerage systems or sewage treatment works serving fewer than 400 persons, as set forth in § 62.1-44.18 of the Code of Virginia, if so certified by the State Water Control Board; and (iii) facilities for discharge into state waters of industrial wastes or other wastes, if certified by the State Water Control Board.

"Waterworks" means a system that serves piped water for drinking or domestic use to (i) at least 15 connections or (ii) at least 25 of the same individuals for more than six months out of the year. The term waterworks shall include all structures, equipment, and appurtenances used in the storage, collection, purification, treatment and distribution of pure water, except the piping and fixtures inside the building where such water is delivered.

18VAC160-20-85. Restricted License of Class VI Waterworks. (Repealed.)

A. The board shall issue a restricted license to operate a Class VI waterworks to the Class VI waterworks owner or the Class VI waterworks owner's designee upon application for such restricted license by the waterworks owner or his designee and provided said application is received by February 15, 2003. Waterworks owners or their designees who fail to apply by February 15, 2003, must apply for a license pursuant to 18VAC160-20-90. A restricted license shall be limited to one license per Class VI waterworks facility. The restricted license is site specific and nontransferable. The restricted license expires three years from the date of issuance and is not subject to renewal.

B. Each applicant for a restricted license to operate a Class VI waterworks shall apply on the application form provided by the board which establishes that the applicant:

1. Is at least 18 years of age;

2. Has a high school diploma or G.E.D. and six months experience, or has no high school diploma or G.E.D. and has 12 months experience;

3. Is the current operator of a specific Class VI system and does not hold a waterworks license issued by the board; and

4. Understands that the restricted Class VI license that may be issued becomes invalid if he leaves the facility for which the license is sought or is issued a waterworks operator license in any other class.

18VAC160-20-90. Licensure by experience and examination Qualifications for licensure – waterworks operator and wastewater works operator.

A. Licensure is based upon having applicable experience and demonstrating minimum required knowledge, skills, and abilities through an examination. Education, training, and experience in the other category may be substituted for the required experience as specified in this section.

A. B. Experience. For purposes of this chapter, experience requirements are expressed in terms of calendar periods of full-time employment as an operator or as an operator-in-training at a waterworks or wastewater works in the same category as the license being applied for. All experience claimed on the application for licensure must be certified by the individual's immediate supervisor.

1. A year of full-time employment is defined as a minimum of 1,760 hours during a 12-month period or a minimum of 220 workdays in a 12-month period. A workday is defined as attendance at a waterworks or wastewater works to the extent required for proper operation. More than 1,760 hours or 220 work days during a 12-month period will not be considered as more than one year of full-time employment.

2. Experience gained as an operator-in-training must be obtained under the direct supervision of an operator holding a valid license of the same category and of a classification equal to or higher than the classification of the waterworks or wastewater works at which the experience is gained. The supervising operator direct supervisor shall certify the experience on the application form as accurate and relevant to the classification and category of license for which the application is being submitted. In the event that a licensed operator is not available to certify the experience on the application, the experience may be certified by a representative of the facility owner, as defined in 18VAC160-20-10, with first-hand knowledge of the applicant's experience.

3. Partial credit may be given for actual hours of work or workdays experience if the applicant works as an operator or as an operator-in-training less than full time.

4. Experience solely limited to the operation and maintenance of wastewater collection systems and water distribution systems, laboratory work, plant maintenance, and other nonoperating duties shall not be counted as experience as an operator or as an operator-in-training.

5. Experience limited to water distribution system operation and maintenance shall be considered only when applying for a Class V 5 or Class VI 6 waterworks operator license.

B. C. Specific requirements for licenses.

1. Specific requirements for a Class VI 6 license. Applicants for licensure as a Class VI 6 waterworks operator shall meet one of the following requirements and pass a board-approved Class 6 examination:

a. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED and (ii) at least six months of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class VI 6, Class V 5, Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks; or

b. Have (i) no high school diploma and (ii) at least one year of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class VI 6, Class V 5, Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks.

2. Specific requirements for a Class V 5 license. Applicants for licensure as a Class V 5 waterworks operator shall meet one of the following requirements and pass a board-approved Class 5 examination:

a. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED and (ii) at least six months of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class V 5, Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks; or

b. Have (i) no high school diploma and (ii) at least one year of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class V 5, Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks.

3. Specific requirements for a Class IV 4 license. Applicants for licensure as either a Class IV 4 waterworks or wastewater works operator shall meet one of the following requirements and pass a the appropriate board-approved Class 4 examination:

a. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED and (ii) at least six months of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

b. Have (i) no high school diploma and (ii) at least one year of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate).

4. Specific requirements for a Class III 3 license. Applicants for licensure as either a Class III 3 waterworks or wastewater works operator shall meet one of the following requirements and pass a the appropriate board-approved Class 3 examination:

a. Have (i) a bachelor's or master's degree with a major in engineering or, engineering technology, or in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science; and (ii) at least one year of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

b. Have (i) a bachelor's degree in engineering or engineering technology, or in physical, biological or chemical science; (ii) a Class IV license; and (iii) a total of at least one year of experience as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class IV waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class III, Class II, or Class I waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

c. b. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED and (ii) at least two years of experience as an operator-in-training in a Class IV 4, Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

d. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED, (ii) a Class IV license, and (iii) a total of at least two years of experience as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class IV waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class III, Class II, or Class I waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

e. c. Have (i) no high school diploma, (ii) a Class IV 4 license, and (iii) a total of at least four years of experience as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class IV 4 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class III 3, Class II 2, or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate).

5. Specific requirements for a Class II 2 license. Applicants for licensure as either a Class II 2 waterworks or wastewater works operator shall meet one of the following requirements and pass a the appropriate board-approved Class 2 examination:

a. Have (i) a bachelor's or master's degree with a major in engineering or, engineering technology, or in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science; and (ii) a total of at least 1-1/2 years 18 months of experience, of which at least six nine months without substitutions shall be as an operator-in-training in a Class III 3, Class II 2 or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

b. Have (i) a bachelor's degree in engineering or engineering technology, or in physical, biological or chemical science; (ii) a Class IV license; and (iii) a total of at least 1-1/2 years of experience, of which at least six months without substitutions shall be as an operator-in-training in a Class III, Class II or Class I waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

c. Have (i) a bachelor's degree in engineering or engineering technology, or in physical, biological or chemical science; (ii) a Class III license; and (iii) a total of at least 1-1/2 years of experience, of which at least six months, without substitutions shall be as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class III waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class II or Class I waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

d. b. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED, (ii) a Class III 3 license, and (iii) a total of at least four three years of experience of which at least two years 18 months without substitutions shall be as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class III 3 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class II 2 or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

e. c. Have (i) no high school diploma, (ii) a Class III 3 license, and (iii) a total of at least seven six years of experience of which at least three years without substitutions shall be as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class III 3 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class II 2 or Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate).

6. Specific requirements for a Class I 1 license. Applicants for licensure as either a Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works operator shall meet one of the following requirements and pass a the appropriate board-approved Class 1 examination:

a. Have (i) a bachelor's or master's degree with a major in engineering or engineering technology, or in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science; (ii) a Class II 2 license; and (iii) a total of at least 2-1/2 years of experience, of which at least one year 15 months without substitutions shall be as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class II 2 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

b. Have (i) a high school diploma or GED, (ii) a Class II 2 license and (iii) a total of at least six five years of experience of which at least two years 30 months without substitutions shall be as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class II 2 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate); or

c. Have (i) no high school diploma, (ii) a Class II 2 license, and (iii) a total of at least 10 years of experience of which at least three five years without substitutions shall be as an operator or operator-in-training in a Class II 2 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate) or as an operator-in-training in a Class I 1 waterworks or wastewater works (as appropriate).

C. Substitutions for required experience. For the purpose of meeting the experience requirements for Class III 3, Class II 2, and Class I 1 licenses, experience in the other category, relevant training in waterworks and wastewater works operation, and formal education may be substituted for actual hands-on experience in the category being applied for.

1. Category experience substitution. One half of the actual experience gained in the other category may be substituted for required experience in the category of the license being applied for.

2. Education substitution. Education may be substituted for part of the required experience in the category of the license being applied for, subject to the following limitations:

a. Education used to meet the educational requirements for any class of license may not be substituted for experience.

b. Formal education courses at a post-secondary level in a related physical, biological or, environmental, or chemical science; engineering or engineering technology; waterworks or wastewater works operation; or public health may be substituted for part of the required experience.

(1) All education substituted for experience must be relevant to the category and classification of the license being applied for.

(2) Education may be substituted for experience at a rate of up to one month experience for each semester hour of college credit approved by the board. One quarter hour of college credit will be considered equal to two thirds of a semester hour.

(3) Substitution of formal education experience will be approved by the board only for applicants who submit a transcript from the institution where the course was taken.

c. Training substitution. Waterworks or wastewater works operator training courses, seminars, workshops, or similar training, specifically approved by the board, may be substituted for part of the required experience.

(1) All training substituted for experience must be relevant to the category and classification of the license being applied for.

(2) Training may be substituted for experience at a rate of one month experience for each training credit approved by the board. Up to one training credit is awarded for each 10 hours of classroom contact time or for each 20 hours of laboratory exercise and field trip contact time. No credit towards training credits is granted for breaks, meals, receptions, and time other than classroom, laboratory and field trip contact time.

(3) All courses used for substitution must be approved by utilizing the criteria set forth in Part VI (18VAC160-20-160) (18VAC160-20-150) of this chapter.

(4) Substitution of training for experience will be approved by the board only for applicants who submit a copy of an appropriate certificate identifying the subject matter of the course and the training credit value, and signed by a representative of the organization sponsoring the training.

3. Limitations on substitution.

a. Under no circumstances shall category experience, education, and training substitutions exceed 50% of the total experience required under this subsection B of this section.

b. No category experience, education, or training substitutions are permitted for the experience required to obtain a Class VI 6, Class V 5 or a Class IV 4 license as specified in subsection B of this section.

D. Examination. A board-approved examination shall be administered by the board or by an examination vendor approved by the board.

1. Each individual applying to sit for the examination shall satisfy the experience standards established in this section before being approved to sit for the examination. Individuals approved to sit for the examination shall be provided with written instructions for examination registration.

2. Examinees will be given specific instructions as to the conduct of the examination at the examination site. Examinees shall follow these instructions during the course of the examination. Misconduct may result in removal from the examination site, voided examination scores, the denial of the application or any combination of the foregoing.

3. Upon submission of an application for reexamination and payment of the fee established in 18VAC160-20-102, an applicant who is unsuccessful in passing the examination shall be allowed to retake the examination an unlimited number of times within one year after the date the application to sit for the examination was approved. If the one-year period elapses, then the applicant shall submit a new application to sit for the examination establishing that he meets the then-current requirements of this chapter and the fee established in 18VAC160-20-102.

4. Each application for reexamination shall be accompanied by the fee established in 18VAC160-20-102.

E. Licensure. Individuals who have passed the board-approved examination shall apply for licensure and shall satisfy the application requirements established in 18VAC160-20-76.

18VAC160-20-95. Provisional licensure – nonclassified facility operation experience only.

A. Each person desiring provisional licensure shall make application in accordance with 18VAC160-20-76 and shall meet all of the requirements of 18VAC160-20-90 except that the experience requirement may be met through experience gained as an operator of a nonclassified facility provided that:

1. The experience is obtained at a nonclassified facility that is comparable in size and in the treatment processes used to those facilities described in 18VAC160-20-120 in the case of waterworks or to those facilities described in 18VAC160-20-130 in the case of wastewater works.

2. The experience is obtained while performing actual nonclassified facility operation duties that provide experience comparable to that obtained at a classified facility. Experience limited solely to the operation and maintenance of wastewater collection systems and water distribution systems, laboratory work, plant maintenance and other nonoperating duties shall not be counted as qualifying experience. Except that experience limited to water distribution system operation and maintenance at a nonclassified facility that is comparable to a facility classified as a Class V or Class VI waterworks may be counted for a provisional Class V or Class VI license for Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, or Class 4 provisional licenses but may be counted for a provisional Class 5 or Class 6 license.

B. Each applicant meeting the requirements of subsection A of this section shall be eligible to sit for the operator examination for the category and class of operator license that is comparable to the nonclassified facility where the experience was obtained. The provisional license shall not be issued until all applicable requirements have been met and satisfactorily verified.

C. Each individual holding provisional licensure may apply for licensure by submitting evidence of having met 50% of the experience required by 18VAC160-20-90.

Part III
Renewal

18VAC160-20-106. Renewal.

A. Licenses and provisional licenses for waterworks operators shall expire on the last day of February of each odd-numbered year. Licenses and provisional licenses for wastewater works operators shall expire on the last day of February of each even-numbered year.

B. The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation shall mail a renewal notice to the licensee and the provisional licensee outlining the procedures for renewal. Renewal notices shall be mailed to the licensee and to the provisional licensee at the last known address of record. Failure to receive written notice shall not relieve the licensee or the provisional licensee of the obligation to renew and pay the required fee outlined in 18VAC160-20-102.

C. Each licensee and provisional licensee applying for renewal shall return the renewal notice, and fee, and, in the case of waterworks licensees and provisional licensees only, a statement that the applicant for license renewal has met the CPE requirement established in 18VAC160-20-109 prior to the expiration date shown on the license. If the licensee or provisional licensee fails to receive the renewal notice, a copy of the expired license or provisional license may be submitted in place of the renewal notice along with the required fee and, in the case of waterworks licensees and provisional licensees only, a statement that the licensee or provisional licensee has met the CPE requirement in 18VAC160-20-109.

D. By submitting the renewal fee, an applicant for renewal is certifying continued compliance with this chapter and compliance with the continuing professional education requirements of this chapter.

E. The date on which the renewal fee and any required forms are actually received by the board or its agent shall determine whether an additional fee is due.

E. F. If the requirements of subsection C of this section are met more than 30 days but less than 12 months after the expiration date on the license or provisional license, a late penalty fee shall be required as established in 18VAC160-20-102. The date on which the renewal application, any required documentation and the required fees are actually received by the board or its agent shall determine whether the licensee or provisional licensee is eligible for renewal and whether an additional fee is due.

F. G. Any individual who fails to renew his license or provisional license within 12 months after the expiration date printed on the license or the provisional license, as appropriate, shall apply for a new license by examination or for a new provisional license in accordance with Part II (18VAC160-20-74 et seq.) of this chapter. Such individual shall be deemed to be eligible to sit for the examination for the same category and class of license as the expired license or provisional license.

G. H. The board may deny renewal of a license or provisional license for the same reasons as it may refuse initial licensure or provisional licensure or discipline a licensee or provisional licensee.

18VAC160-20-109. Waterworks operator Operator continuing profession professional education (CPE).

A. Each licensed and provisionally licensed waterworks operator licensee and provisional licensee shall have completed the following number of CPE contact hours required for his class of license during each renewal cycle:

1. Class I 1, II 2, and III 3 waterworks and wastewater works operators shall obtain a minimum of 20 contact hours during each license renewal cycle.

2. Class IV 4 waterworks and wastewater works operators shall obtain a minimum of 16 contact hours during each license renewal cycle.

3. Class V 5 waterworks operators shall obtain a minimum of eight contact hours during each license renewal cycle.

4. Class VI 6 waterworks operators shall obtain a minimum of four contact hours during each license renewal cycle.

CPE provisions do not apply for the renewal of licenses or provisional licenses that were held for less than two years on the date of expiration.

B. The subject matter addressed during CPE contact hours shall be limited to the content areas covered by the board's examination appropriate to the license held. Safety subjects shall not count for more than one-half of the total CPE required content hours for waterworks operators and for wastewater works operators.

C. Any course approved by the board for substitution as training credits or formal education semester hours, as provided for in 18VAC160-20-160 18VAC160-20-150, shall also be acceptable on an hour-for-hour basis for CPE contact hours. One semester hour of college credit shall equal 15 CPE contact hours, and one quarter hour of college credit shall equal 10 CPE credit hours.

D. The following evidence shall be maintained to document completion of the hours of CPE specified in subsection A of this section:

1. Evidence of completion of a structured training activity which shall consist of the name, address and telephone number of the sponsor;

2. The dates the applicant participated in the training;

3. Descriptive material of the subject matter presented; and

4. A statement from the sponsor verifying the number of hours completed.

E. Each licensee and provisional licensee shall maintain evidence of the satisfactory completion of CPE for a period of at least one year two years following the end of the license renewal cycle for which the CPE was taken. Such documentation shall be in the form required by subsection D of this section and shall be provided to the board or its duly authorized agents upon request.

F. The licensee or provisional licensee shall not receive CPE credit for the same training course or structured training activity more than once during a single license renewal cycle to meet the CPE requirement unless the same training course or structured training activity is an annual requirement established by Virginia or federal regulations.

G. The licensee or provisional licensee may receive CPE credit for a training course or structured training activity which has been mandated by Virginia or federal regulation towards fulfilling the CPE requirement.

H. CPE instructors who hold a license issued by the board may receive CPE credit for the time spent actually instructing subject matter that is pertinent to their license. CPE credit shall not be allowed for instructing the same subject matter more than once during a single renewal cycle.

I. CPE instructors who hold a license issued by the board may be granted two additional hours of CPE credit for the initial development of or the substantial updating of a CPE activity that is pertinent to the license held for each hour spent delivering the initial presentation. CPE credit for the initial development or the substantial updating of a specific CPE activity shall be granted no more than once during a single renewal cycle.

H. J. The licensee or provisional licensee may petition the board for additional time to meet the CPE requirement. However, CPE hours earned during a license renewal cycle to satisfy the CPE requirement of the preceding license renewal cycle shall be valid only for that preceding license renewal cycle.

Part IV
Classification Requirements

18VAC160-20-120. Waterworks.

A. A Class VI 6 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks as follows:

1. A waterworks providing no treatment and serving fewer than 400 persons; or

2. A waterworks classified by the Virginia Department of Health as a Class VI 6 waterworks.

B. A Class V 5 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks as follows:

1. A waterworks serving 400 or more persons which (i) provides no treatment or (ii) employs hypochlorination for disinfection; or

2. A waterworks classified by the Virginia Department of Health as either a Class V 5 or Class VI 6 waterworks.

C. A Class IV 4 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks as follows:

1. A waterworks serving fewer than 5,000 persons or having a design hydraulic capacity of less than 0.5 MGD, employing one or more of the following (i) disinfection other than with hypochlorination, (ii) corrosion control, (iii) iron and manganese removal, (iv) ion exchange, (v) membrane technology without pretreatment, (vi) slow sand filtration, (vii) aeration, (viii) rechlorination other than with hypochlorination, or (ix) activated carbon contactors; or

2. A waterworks classified by the Virginia Department of Health as either a Class IV, V, or VI 4, 5, or 6 waterworks.

D. A Class III 3 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks as follows:

1. A waterworks serving fewer than 5,000 persons or having a design capacity less than 0.5 MGD, employing chemical coagulation or lime softening in combination with one or more of the following (i) sedimentation, (ii) rapid sand filtration with a filtration rate of 2 gpm/square foot or less, (iii) fluoridation, (iv) disinfection, (v) aeration, (vi) corrosion control, or (vii) membrane technologies;

2. A waterworks serving 5,000 or more persons or having a design hydraulic capacity of 0.5 MGD, employing one or more of the following; (i) disinfection other than with hypochlorination, (ii) corrosion control, (iii) iron and manganese removal, (iv) ion exchange, (v) membrane technology without pretreatment, (vi) slow sand filtration, (vii) aeration, (viii) rechlorination other than with hypochlorination, or (ix) activated carbon contactors;

3. A waterworks employing (i) membrane technology requiring pretreatment consisting of pH adjustment; or (ii) diatomaceous earth filtration, coupled with aeration, corrosion control, disinfection, or fluoridation;

4. A waterworks employing fluoridation which is not under a higher classification; or

5. A waterworks classified by the Virginia Department of Health as either a Class III, IV, V or VI 3, 4, 5, or 6 waterworks.

E. A Class II 2 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks as follows:

1. A waterworks serving 5,000 or more persons but fewer than 50,000 persons or having a design hydraulic capacity of 0.5 MGD or more but less than 5.0 MGD employing chemical coagulation or lime softening in combination with one or more of the following; (i) sedimentation, (ii) rapid sand filtration, (iii) fluoridation, (iv) disinfection, (v) aeration, (vi) corrosion control, or (vii) membrane technologies;

2. A waterworks serving fewer than 50,000 persons or having a design hydraulic capacity of less than 5.0 MGD which employs chemical coagulation or lime softening coupled with multimedia granular filtration or granular filtration at rates above 2.0 gpm/square foot (high rate filtration) in combination with one or more of the following: (i) sedimentation, (ii) fluoridation, (iii) disinfection, (iv) aeration, or (v) corrosion control;

3. A waterworks employing biological activated carbon contactors or membrane technology requiring pretreatment other than pH adjustment; or

4. A waterworks classified by the Virginia Department of Health as either a Class II, III, IV, V or VI 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 waterworks.

F. A Class I 1 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks. any waterworks as follows:

1. A waterworks serving 50,000 or more persons or having a design hydraulic capacity of 5.0 MGD or more employing chemical coagulation or lime softening in combination with one or more of the following: (i) sedimentation, (ii) rapid sand filtration, (iii) fluoridation, (iv) disinfection, (v) aeration, (vi) corrosion control, or (vii) membrane technologies;

2. A waterworks serving 50,000 or more persons or having a design hydraulic capacity of 5.0 MGD or more that employs chemical coagulation or lime softening coupled with multimedia granular filtration or granular filtration at rates above 2.0 gpm/square foot (high rate filtration) in combination with one or more of the following: (i) sedimentation, (ii) fluoridation, (iii) disinfection, (iv) aeration, or (v) corrosion control;

3. A waterworks employing biological activated carbon contactors or membrane technology requiring pretreatment other than pH adjustment; or

4. A waterworks classified by the Virginia Department of Health as a Class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 waterworks.

G. The term membrane technologies includes (i) electrical dialysis electrodialysis reversal, (ii) reverse osmosis, (iii) ultra filtration ultrafiltration, (iv) micro filtration microfiltration, and (v) nano filtration nanofiltration.

18VAC160-20-130. Wastewater works.

A. A Class IV 4 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works as follows:

1. A wastewater works employing natural treatment methods (i.e., those not utilizing aerated or mixed flows and not using electrical or outside energy sources to accomplish treatment) with a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.4 0.04 MGD but equal to or less than 1.0 MGD; or

2. A wastewater works classified by the Virginia Department of Health or the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality as a Class IV 4 wastewater works.

B. A Class III 3 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works as follows:

1. A wastewater works using biological treatment methods consisting of but not limited to (i) suspended growth reactors, (ii) aerated lagoons, (iii) constructed wetlands, (iv) biological filters or other attached growth contactors, (v) processes utilizing biological nutrient control, or (vi) processes utilizing land application having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.04 MGD, but equal to or less than 0.5 MGD;

2. A wastewater works using advanced waste treatment methods consisting of but not limited to (i) ammonia stripping, (ii) breakpoint chlorination, (iii) carbon adsorption, (iv) chemical coagulation, (v) flocculation, (vi) precipitation, (vii) filtration, or (viii) demineralization (ion exchange, reverse osmosis or electrodialysis) having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.04 MGD, but equal to or less than 0.5 MGD;

3. A wastewater works using combinations of biological and advanced waste treatment methods having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.04 MGD, but equal to or less than 0.1 MGD;

4. A wastewater works using natural treatment methods (i.e., those not using aerated or mixed flows and not using electrical or outside energy sources to accomplish treatment) with a design hydraulic capacity greater than 1.0 MGD; or

5. A wastewater works classified by the Virginia Department of Health or the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality as either a Class III or IV 3 or 4 wastewater works.

C. A Class II 2 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works as follows:

1. A wastewater works using biological treatment methods consisting of but not limited to (i) suspended growth reactors, (ii) aerated lagoons, (iii) constructed wetlands, (iv) biological filters or other attached growth contactors, (v) processes utilizing biological nutrient control, or (vi) processes utilizing land application having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.5 MGD, but equal to or less than 5.0 MGD;

2. A wastewater works using advanced waste treatment methods consisting of but not limited to (i) ammonia stripping, (ii) breakpoint chlorination, (iii) carbon adsorption, (iv) chemical coagulation, (v) flocculation, (vi) precipitation, (vii) filtration, or (viii) demineralization (ion exchange, reverse osmosis or electrodialysis) having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.5 MGD, but equal to or less than 5.0 MGD;

3. A wastewater works using combinations of biological and advanced waste treatment methods, having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 0.1 MGD, but equal to or less than 2.5 MGD; or

4. A wastewater works classified by the Virginia Department of Health or the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality as either a Class II, III or IV 2, 3, or 4 wastewater works.

D. A Class I 1 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works. as follows:

1. A wastewater works using biological treatment methods consisting of, but not limited to (i) suspended growth reactors, (ii) aerated lagoons, (iii) constructed wetlands, (iv) biological filters or other attached growth contactors, (v) processes utilizing biological nutrient control, or (vi) processes utilizing land application having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 5.0 MGD;

2. A wastewater works using advanced waste treatment methods consisting of, but not limited to (i) ammonia stripping, (ii) breakpoint chlorination, (iii) carbon adsorption, (iv) chemical coagulation, (v) flocculation, (vi) precipitation, (vii) filtration, or (viii) demineralization (ion exchange, reverse osmosis or electrodialysis) having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 5.0 MGD;

3. A wastewater works using combinations of biological and advanced waste treatment methods, having a design hydraulic capacity greater than 2.5 MGD; or

4. A wastewater works classified by the Virginia Department of Health or the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality as a Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 wastewater works.

Part V
Standards of Practice

18VAC160-20-140. Discipline.

The board has the power to discipline and fine any licensee or provisional licensee and to suspend or revoke or refuse to renew or reinstate any license or provisional license as well as the power to deny any application for a license or provisional license under the provisions of Chapter 23 (§ 54.1-2300 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter for any of the following:

1. Obtaining or, renewing, or attempting to obtain or renew a license or provisional license through fraudulent means or misrepresentation;

2. Having been convicted or found guilty by a court in any jurisdiction of any felony or of any misdemeanor involving lying, cheating or stealing, or for activities carried out while engaged in waterworks or wastewater works activities, there being no appeal pending therefrom or the time for appeal having lapsed. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection. A certified copy of a final order, decree or case decision by a court or regulatory agency with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree or case decision shall be prima facie evidence of such conviction or discipline. The record of conviction certified or authenticated in such form as to be admissible in evidence under the laws of the jurisdiction where convicted shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such guilt;

3. Not demonstrating reasonable care, judgment, or application of the required knowledge, skill and ability in the performance of the operating duties;

4. Violating or inducing another person to violate any provisions of Chapter 1, 2, 3 or 23 of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia, or of any provision of this chapter;

5. Having been found guilty by the board, an administrative body or by a court of any activity in the course of performing his operating duties that resulted in the harm or the threat of harm to human health or the environment;

6. Failing to inform the board in writing within 30 days of pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted or found guilty, regardless of adjudication, of any felony which resulted in the harm or the threat of harm to human health or the environment. Failing to inform the board in writing within 30 days of pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted of or found guilty, regardless of adjudication, of any felony or of any misdemeanor for activities carried out while engaged in waterworks or wastewater works activities or involving lying, cheating or stealing; or

7. Negligence, or a continued pattern of incompetence, in the practice as a waterworks or wastewater works operator.

Part VI
Approval of Training

18VAC160-20-150. Approval of training.

A. Waterworks and wastewater works operator training for all licenses may be substituted for some of the experience required for Class III 3, Class II 2 and Class I 1 licenses, subject to the limitations in this section. Training courses that may be substituted for required experience must be approved by the board except those provided by federal or state agencies, institutions, schools and universities approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, for which continuing education units are awarded. Training courses requiring board approval shall be approved by the board prior to commencing in accordance with the following:

B. Training courses for which experience credit may be granted must be conducted in general conformance with the guidelines of the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (Association). The board reserves the right to waive any of the requirements of the association's guidelines on a case-by-case basis. Only classroom, laboratory and field trip contact time will be used to compute training credits. No credit will be given for breaks, meals, or receptions.

1. Organization. The board will only approve training offered by a sponsor who is an identifiable organization with a mission statement outlining its functions, structure, process and philosophy, and that has a staff of one or more persons with the authority to administer and coordinate a training credit (TC) program.

2. TC records. The board will only approve training offered by a sponsor who maintains TC records for all participants for a minimum of seven years, and who has a written policy on retention and release of TC records.

3. Instructors. The board will only approve training conducted by personnel who have demonstrated competence in the subject being taught, an understanding of the learning objective, a knowledge of the learning process to be used, and a proven ability to communicate.

4. Objectives. The board will only approve courses that have a series of stated objectives that are consistent with the job requirements of waterworks and wastewater works operators. The training course content must be consistent with those objectives.

5. Course completion requirements. For successful completion of a training course, participants must attend 90% or more of the class contact time and must demonstrate their learning through written examinations, completion of a project, self-assessment, oral examination, or other similar assessment technique.

C. The board shall consider the following information, to be submitted by the course sponsor or instructor on forms provided by the board, at least 45 days prior to the scheduled training course:

1. Course information.

a. Course title;

b. Planned audience;

c. Name of sponsor;

d. Name, address, phone number of contact person;

e. Scheduled presentation dates;

f. Detailed course schedule, hour-by-hour;

g. List of planned breaks;

h. Scheduled presentation location; and

i. Relevancy of course to waterworks or wastewater works operator licensing.

2. Instructor qualifications.

a. Name of instructor;

b. Title, employer; and

c. Summary of qualifications to teach this course.

3. Training materials.

a. Course objectives. A listing of the course objectives stated in terms of the skills, knowledge, or attitude the participant will be able to demonstrate as a result of the training.

b. Course outline. A detailed outline showing the planned activities that will occur during the training course, including major topics, planned presentation sequence, laboratory and field activities, audio-visual presentation, and other major activities.

c. Course reference materials. A list of the name, publisher and publication date for commercially available publications. For reference materials developed by the course sponsor or available exclusively through the course, a copy of the reference.

d. Audio-visual support materials. A listing of any commercially available audio-visual support material that will be used in the program. A brief description of any sponsor or instructor generated audio-visual material that will be used.

e. Handouts. Identification of all commercially available handout materials that will be used; as well as copies of all other planned handouts.

4. Determination of successful completion. A description of the means that will be used to assess the learning of each participant to determine successful completion of the training program, such as examinations, projects, personal evaluations by the instructor, or other recognized evaluation techniques.

D. Recurring training programs. If there are plans to present the same course of instruction routinely at multiple locations with only minor modifications and changes, the board may approve the overall program rather than individual presentations if so requested by the sponsor.

1. The board shall consider all of the information listed above except those items related to specific offerings of the course.

2. Board approval may be granted for a specific period of time or for an indefinite period.

3. Board approval will apply only to those specific offerings certified by the sponsoring organization as having been conducted by instructors meeting the established criteria and in accordance with the board-approved course outlines and objectives.

4. To maintain approval of the program, changes made to the program since its approval must be submitted.