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This occupation is found in the water industry.
Water industry treatment process technicians work for clean water or wastewater (sewerage) treatment companies regulated by OFWAT - Office of Water Services (UK government). Technicians typically work in only one type of treatment stream.
Employers in the industry are small to large but mainly large.
This is a core and option apprenticeship standard. Apprentices will be trained and assessed against the core and one option. There are two options:
Option 1. Water treatment process technician
Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician
Technicians work at treatment sites. They may be required to drive between sites.
They work in all weather conditions.
As a 24 hour and seven days a week operation, they may need to undertake standby duties and work shifts outside normal working hours.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to maintain site process standards for water or wastewater.
Water treatment technicians maintain and ensure the safe supply of drinking water. This involves abstraction of raw water, treatment, and supply into distribution network. They ensure a balance between water production with network demand. They also manage and operate waste processes onsite such as, sludge management, offsite discharges, and general wastes (oils, paper, and food).
Wastewater treatment technicians maintain the removal and treatment of wastewater. They monitor and maintain wastewater treatment processes including preliminary (for example, storm), primary settlement, biological and chemical treatment, tertiary, and sludge treatment. They manage sludge preparation and storage and liaise with sludge processing facilities.
Both roles seek to optimise processes to maximise efficiency and compliance. They respond to and resolve process failure or failures. They manage asset maintenance and faults: directly or via escalation. Maintaining documentation is also an important part of the role. They support develop other members of the team.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with process operatives, technicians, and stakeholders from teams across water services or the wider business. This may include maintenance, water quality, and regional control rooms. They may also interact with external stakeholders. This may include representatives from the Environmental Agency, and Health and Safety Executive.
They typically report to a treatment manager or site manager. They work with minimal supervision. They may work as part of a team and alone.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for meeting quality, regulatory, safety, security, and environmental requirements. They ensure the health and safety of self and others including ensuring hygiene practices are followed. They need to consider how their work has the potential to impact customer service and the company - financially and reputationally.
Water treatment process technicians must take account of The Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations.
Wastewater treatment process technicians must take account of Environmental Quality Standards for effluent discharge and air quality.
UK water companies require individuals entering clean water sites or working on the clean water network – known as ‘Restricted Operations’, to hold a National Water Hygiene EUSR registration: Blue card. This involves training and assessment, and health screening.
Typically, 3 to 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and mathematics, or equivalent qualifications.
Duty |
KSBs |
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Duty 1 Seek ways to optimise processes. For example, operational expenditure, compliance, and tighter restrictions on regulatory parameters. |
K2 K3 K4 K7 K9 K10 K13 K14 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 |
Duty 2 Respond to alarms. |
K2 K3 K8 K9 K10 K11 K15 K16 K17 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
Duty 3 Supervise chemical deliveries. |
K1 K2 K10 K12 K16 K17 K18 K19 K21 K22 K23 |
Duty 4 Co-ordinate work activities and site response with internal and external stakeholders. |
K1 K2 K8 K9 K10 K16 K17 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
Duty 5 Manage asset maintenance: directly or via escalation. For example, equipment validation or calibration. |
K2 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 |
Duty 6 Resolve faults and problems on process streams, systems, equipment, instruments, and control systems: directly or via escalation. Identify action to prevent reoccurrence of the issue(s). |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K14 K15 K16 K19 K20 K21 K22 |
Duty 7 Complete site safety and security activities. For example, complete site security checks, and site safety inductions. |
K1 K2 K10 K12 K16 K18 K19 K21 K22 K23 |
Duty 8 Ensure vital safety equipment is maintained and available for use. For example, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), harnesses, and first aid kits. |
K2 K6 K10 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 |
Duty 9 Maintain documentation - records and reports. For example, validation records, and site visit records. |
K2 K3 K5 K6 K8 K10 K11 K12 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 |
Duty 10 Action response to incidents. For example, out of compliance, toxic gas leaks, chemical or fuel spills. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 |
Duty 11 Maintain site standards and conditions (site ownership). For example, free from hazards, good housekeeping. |
K2 K10 K12 K16 K17 K21 K22 K23 |
Duty |
KSBs |
---|---|
Duty 12 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Manage routine activities to maintain and ensure safe supply of drinking water – abstraction, treatment, and supply into distribution network. |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K9 K10 K12 K13 K14 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty 13 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Maintain water quality site process standards. |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K14 K16 K17 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty 14 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Monitor control systems and respond to ensure balance between water production with network demand. |
K2 K3 K5 K9 K10 K14 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty 15 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Respond to and resolve water treatment process failure(s) or problem(s). For example, coagulation failure or disinfection failure. Identify action to prevent reoccurrence of the issue(s). |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K11 K15 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty 16 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Manage and operate waste processes onsite such as, sludge management, offsite discharges, and general wastes (oils, paper, and food). |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty 17 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Manage and control emergency process response. For example, run to waste. |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K12 K15 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty 18 Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Assist with process stream and full treatment works shutdown for routine planned maintenance and in emergencies. |
K2 K3 K8 K9 K10 K11 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36 S37 |
Duty |
KSBs |
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Duty 19 Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Manage routine activities to maintain removal and treatment of wastewater. |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K9 K10 K12 K13 K14 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47 |
Duty 20 Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Maintain wastewater quality site process standards. |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K14 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47 |
Duty 21 Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Monitor and maintain wastewater treatment processes including preliminary (for example, storm), primary settlement, biological and chemical treatment, tertiary, and sludge treatment. |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K12 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47 |
Duty 22 Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Manage sludge preparation and storage and liaise with sludge processing facilities. |
K2 K3 K5 K9 K10 K12 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47 |
Duty 23 Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Respond to and resolve process failure(s) or problem(s). For example, divert flows, escalate, process stream shut down and isolation, and take samples. Identify action to prevent reoccurrence of the issue(s). |
K2 K3 K4 K5 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K15 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 S1 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47 |
Duty 24 Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Maintain pumping operations including associated equipment and control systems. |
K2 K3 K8 K9 K10 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 S1 S3 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S14 S15 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47 |
K1: Overview of water and wastewater industries. Regulators and stakeholders: Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT), Consumer Council for Water (CCWater), Environment Agency (EA), and Health, Safety Executive (HSE), and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) - roles and powers.
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K2: Technician’s role. Limits of autonomy. Different teams and functions involved in operations: how they work together.
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K3: Business operation considerations: how activities may impact customers, financial constraints, ethical business practices. Customer Experience Measure (CMEX). Regulatory and legislative performance measures.
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K4: Water and wastewater science. Liquids, gases, and solid states commonly found in water industry. Elements, molecules, compounds, and ions. The pH scale, acids, and alkalinity. Physical, chemical, and biological process definition. Dissolved oxygen in treatment and processes.
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K5: Maths commonly used in the water and wastewater industries. S.I units. Calculations. Standard form. Measurement of distance, area, volume and flow, and unit conversion. Simple transposition of formula. Routine flow and hydraulics theories, principles, and calculations.
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K6: Planned preventative maintenance of monitoring equipment requirements. Asset health check requirements.
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K7: Energy performance monitoring methods. Energy consumption reduction guidelines. Triad arrangements.
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K8: Isolation, shutdown, and recommissioning of process streams requirements and procedures.
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K9: Process control systems. Types of equipment used for process control operations and the functions they perform, set-points, and alarm values.
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K10: Operational and quality procedures. Escalation procedures. What they are and how to use them.
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K11: Different types of incidents and emergency situations (internal and external): pollution, loss of process, security, weather, and accidents: their potential impact. Incident management and procedures.
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K12: Chemical awareness. Transport, acceptance and use of chemicals. Agreement of Dangerous Goods transported by Road regulation (ADR). Chemical delivery requirements. Chemical control methods.
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K13: Optimisation in the treatment process: what it means and how it can be achieved.
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K14: Asset optimisation and performance: quality, cost, time, safety, and impact.
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K15: Fault finding and problem-solving techniques: root cause analysis and diagnostics.
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K16: Health and Safety at Work Act – responsibilities. Management of health and safety at work regulations. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). Risks and hazards. Risk assessments and controlling risk. Control methods for harmful substances and chemicals, effluents, and sludge. Health and safety signage. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Working in confined spaces: safety equipment and lifting equipment. Harnesses, gas detectors and respiratory apparatus. Manual handling. The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Asbestos awareness. Lone working. Working at height. Working time directive. First aid. Emergency procedures. Drug and alcohol awareness. Permits to work. Storage of tools, equipment, and materials. ATEX compliance (safety requirements of the workplace and equipment used in explosive atmosphere). Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR). Pressure System Safety Regulations (PSSR). Provision of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). Safe isolation of plant and equipment (lockout, tagout).
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K17: Environment and sustainability. Environmental Protection Act. Types of pollution and control measures. Environmental permitting and discharge consents. Operator Self Monitoring (OSM): sampling requirements. Monitoring emissions to air, land, and water (MCERTS). Principles of sustainable development. Waste management and waste streams. Invasive species and Duty of Care in the Environmental aspect.
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K18: Information and digital technology: email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation, remote working platforms, work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.
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K19: Documentation requirements for example maintenance records, asset check records.
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K20: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, and time management techniques.
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K21: Communication techniques: verbal, written and electronic. Adapting style to audience.
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K22: Team working and culture. How to work as part of a team, the importance of establishing and meeting the requirements of different roles. Negotiation and conflict management techniques.
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K23: Equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
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K24: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations. Consequences of non-compliance.
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K25: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. National water hygiene: importance of water, water as a carrier of disease, potential contamination and its consequences and preventing contamination.
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K26: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Water quality requirements. Drinking water safety plans. Water quality parameters and the role of water quality alarms. Water quality incident investigation requirements. Water quality records. Consequences of failure.
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K27: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. DWI asset and site security requirements: water storage alarms.
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K28: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Water quality monitoring, sampling, and testing requirements and techniques. Equipment, resources, and materials used. Sampling points.
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K29: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Raw water and catchment management permitting and protection.
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K30: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Treatment processes: abstraction, clarification, coagulation, disinfection, and filtration. Water works design flows - impact of flow change on treatment process. Hydraulics principles. Objectives, parameters, variables, optimal performance measures (quality, cost, and waste) and the consequences of sub-optimal performance. Waste stream processes.
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K31: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Plant shutdown and re-start procedures: planned and reactive. Impact and causes of shutdown.
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K32: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Distribution system protection: disinfection, chemical treatment, flow, and valve operation controls.
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K33: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Treated water storage point objectives and requirements.
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K34: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Treatment processes: preliminary treatment, primary treatment, secondary treatment, tertiary treatment, sludge treatment, and odour management. Wastewater works design flows - impact of flow change on treatment process.
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K35: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Wastewater compliance and performance monitoring requirements: wastewater quality standards, sampling, analysis, and reporting.
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K36: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Nature and sources of wastewater effluent and its impact on the environment.
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K37: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Chemical, biological, microbiological, and physical characteristics of wastewater effluent and trade effluents.
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K38: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Risks of working on wastewater treatment site – personal hygiene risks and requirements.
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K39: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Configuration, operation, and performance requirements of types of sewerage systems and pumping stations: inter-stage pumping stations, detention tanks, combined sewer overflow screens (CSO). Pumps and associated ancillary equipment used.
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K40: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Purpose, application, and impact of wastewater flows: volumes, permits, catchment area consent, and impact of weather conditions.
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S1: Comply with (water or waste waste) industry regulations and procedures.
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S2: Follow alarm intervention procedures. Resolve alarm issues.
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S3: Inspect (planned) and check assets (reactive) and identify action.
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S4: Follow procedures to remove assets for routine maintenance and recommission.
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S5: Carry out validation or instrument checks of online equipment and identify action.
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S6: Monitor first line maintenance of process control equipment and instrumentation.
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S7: Identify issues. Apply fault-finding and problem-solving techniques: identify root cause. Resolve faults.
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S8: Consider, identify, and promote areas for improvement for example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and impact.
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S9: Interrogate and interpret electronic control systems. For example, HMI or SCADA.
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S10: Use data monitoring and control systems to monitor and control equipment.
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S11: Inspect and check safety equipment: identify and take action.
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S12: Identify and instigate incident escalation procedures.
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S13: Apply site standards for housekeeping.
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S14: Conduct risk assessments: identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Apply control measures.
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S15: Comply with health and safety regulations and safe working practices and procedures.
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S16: Follow site security procedures.
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S17: Follow procedures for emergency situations.
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S18: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and requirements. For example, safe disposal of waste, re-cycling or re-use of materials, and efficient use of resources.
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S19: Apply principles of sustainable development. For example, in choice of materials.
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S20: Conduct and assess impact of activity for example, environmental, cost, reputation, safety, and health. Apply control measures.
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S21: Identify and escalate issues.
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S22: Read and interpret written information. For example, work instructions, and service level agreements.
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S23: Complete work records.
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S24: Use information technology. Follow cyber security procedures. Comply with GDPR.
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S25: Plan tasks. Identify and organise resources to complete work tasks.
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S26: Communicate verbally and in writing. For example, with colleagues, stakeholders, or others. Use water industry terminology where appropriate.
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S27: Liaise with, negotiate with, and handle conflict in individual or group environments.
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S28: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Select raw water source or blend of sources.
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S29: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Monitor and control water abstraction.
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S30: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Monitor and control water chemical dosing procedures.
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S31: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Operate water process control equipment and instrumentation.
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S32: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Take water samples.
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S33: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Analyse and interpret on-site laboratory data and check against water process parameters.
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S34: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Monitor and control water treatment processes and performance.
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S35: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Monitor and control the effectiveness of disinfection.
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S36: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Monitor and control waste stream processes and performance.
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S37: Option 1. Water treatment process technician. Apply procedures to shut-down, isolate, and re-commission water process streams.
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S38: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Monitor and control incoming flows.
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S39: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Control internal pumping station operations.
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S40: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Operate wastewater process control equipment and instrumentation.
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S41: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Take wastewater samples.
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S42: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Analyse and interpret on-site testing data and monitoring equipment data and check against wastewater process parameters.
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S43: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Monitor and maintain grit removal and screening assets.
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S44: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Monitor and control the performance of sedimentation, biological and chemical treatment operations.
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S45: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Monitor and control wastewater treatment processes and performance.
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S46: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Apply procedures to shut-down, isolate and re-commission wastewater process streams.
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S47: Option 2. Wastewater treatment process technician. Follow wastewater hygiene personal procedures.
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B1: Prioritise and promote public health, workplace health and safety, and security.
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B2: Prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability.
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B3: Apply a professional approach.
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B4: Take ownership for work and responsibility for the quality of work and impact on others.
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B5: Team-focus to meet work goals: support others.
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B6: Respond and adapt to work demands.
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B7: Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice.
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Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
This standard partially aligns with the following professional recognition:
The Institute of Water for Registered Environmental Technician (REnvTech)
The experience gained and responsibility held by the apprentice on completion of the apprenticeship will either wholly or partially satisfy the requirements for registration at this level.
The Institute of Water for Engineering Technician (EngTech)
The experience gained and responsibility held by the apprentice on completion of the apprenticeship will either wholly or partially satisfy the requirements for registration at this level.
The Science Council for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech)
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and upon receipt of the apprenticeship certificate, individuals are eligible to apply for RSciTech through a shortened application route. Individuals also need to be a member of a professional body that is licensed by the Science Council to be awarded this status. Further information is on the Science Council’s website
AP01
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the water industry treatment process technician apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering their EPA.
Water industry treatment process technician apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s Register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).
A full-time apprentice typically spends 36 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway) working towards competence as a water industry treatment process technician. All apprentices must spend at least 12 months on-programme. All apprentices must spend at least 20% of their on-programme time completing off-the-job training.
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each EPA method are:
EPA method 1 - observation with questions:
EPA method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
EPA method 3 - multiple-choice test:
The result from each EPA method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
On-programme (typically 36 months) |
Training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) of the occupational standard. Training towards English and mathematics qualifications at Level 21, if required. Compiling a portfolio of evidence. |
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End-point assessment gateway |
The employer must be content that the apprentice is working at or above the level of the occupational standard. The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think the apprentice:
Apprentices must have achieved English and mathematics at Level 21. An apprentice must submit all gateway evidence to the EPAO. The EPAO must review the evidence. When the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met, the EPA period starts and typically takes 4 months to complete. The expectation is that the EPAO will confirm the gateway requirements have been met as quickly as possible. For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice will be required to submit a portfolio of evidence. Apprentices must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO. |
End-point assessment (typically 4 months) |
Grades available for each method: Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded: |
Professional recognition |
This apprenticeship standard aligns with The Institute of Water for Registered Environmental Technician (REnvTech). The experience gained and responsibility held by the apprentice on completion of the apprenticeship will either wholly or partially satisfy the requirements for registration at this level. This apprenticeship standard aligns with The Institute of Water for Engineering Technician (EngTech). The experience gained and responsibility held by the apprentice on completion of the apprenticeship will either wholly or partially satisfy the requirements for registration at this level. This apprenticeship standard aligns with The Science Council for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech). Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and upon receipt of the apprenticeship certificate, individuals are eligible to apply for RSciTech through a shortened application route. Individuals also need to be a member of a professional body that is licensed by the Science Council to be awarded this status. Further information is on the Science Council’s website. |
Re-sits and re-takes |
1For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and mathematics minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. British Sign Language (BSL) qualifications are an alternative to English qualifications for those who have BSL as their primary language.
The EPA will be taken within the EPA period. The EPA period begins when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements are met and is typically 4 months.
The expectation is that the EPAO will confirm the gateway requirements are met and the EPA begins as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard as a water industry treatment process technician. They will then enter the gateway. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider(s), but the employer must make the decision.
Apprentices must meet the following gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
These are:
Apprentices must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.
The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms all gateway requirements have been met. The expectation is they will do this as quickly as possible.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
In an observation with questions, an independent assessor observes an apprentice in their workplace. The apprentice completes their day-to-day duties under normal working conditions. This allows the apprentice to demonstrate the KSBs shown in the mapping through naturally occurring evidence. The independent assessor asks questions as explained below. Simulation is not permitted during the observation.
The observation and responses to questions must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade for the observation with questions.
The observation with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method to the highest available grade.
The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice to ensure quality and rigour and they must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the observation.
The observation must take 6 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the observation by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary. The observation and questioning must allow the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs at the highest possible grade.
The observation may be split into discrete sections held on the same working day.
EPAOs must manage invigilation of apprentices at all times to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the observation before it begins. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor should observe the following during the observation: The activities will be observed in the context of the apprentice’s occupational context (option): water or wastewater.
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs as shown in the mapping.
Questioning can occur both during and after the observation and the time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, independent assessors should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. Follow-up questions are allowed. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training.
The independent assessor must ask questions about KSBs that were not observed to gather assessment evidence. These questions are in addition to the set number of questions for the observation and should be kept to a minimum. The independent assessor can also ask questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice.
The independent assessor conducts and assesses the observation with questions. They must record the KSBs observed, KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions and the grade achieved. The apprentice’s answers to questions must also be recorded.
The independent assessor makes all grading decisions.
The observation with questions must take place in the apprentice’s normal place of work (for example their employer’s premises or a customer’s premises). Equipment and resources needed for the observation must be provided by the employer and be in good and safe working condition.
Questioning that occurs after the observation should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
EPAOs must write an assessment specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs shown in the mapping. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. EPAOs should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The assessment specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
EPAOs will develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering standardisation, training and moderation. EPAOs will ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.
EPAOs must ensure that apprentices have a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
EPAOs must produce the following materials to support the observation with questions:
In the interview, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate their competency across the KSBs as shown in the mapping.
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method to the highest available grade.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
Apprentices must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
Apprentices can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence, however the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 90 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
For the interview, the independent assessor must ask at least 12 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training. The interview must allow the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method at the highest possible grade.
The independent assessor conducts and assesses the interview.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. The records must include the KSBs met, the grade achieved and answers to questions.
The independent assessor will make all grading decisions.
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s or employer’s premises).
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
EPAOs must write an assessment specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs shown in the mapping. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. EPAOs should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The assessment specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
EPAOs will develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering standardisation, training and moderation. EPAOs will ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.
EPAOs must ensure that apprentices have a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
EPAOs must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
A test is an assessment for asking questions in a controlled and invigilated environment.
This method must be appropriately structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method to the highest available grade.
The multiple-choice test can be computer or paper based.
The multiple-choice test will consist of 50 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions will have four options, including one correct answer.
Apprentices must be given at least 2 weeks' notice of the date and time of the multiple-choice test.
Apprentices must have 90 minutes to complete the test.
The multiple-choice test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.
The multiple-choice test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. Specialised (proctor) software can be used if the test can be taken on-line, to ensure the security of the test.
The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the multiple-choice test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The EPAO must verify the identity of the apprentice.
The EPAO is responsible for the security of the multiple-choice test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the multiple-choice test.
The multiple-choice test must be marked by independent assessors or markers employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
A correct answer gets 1 mark.
Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.
The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the multiple-choice test. The EPAO must ensure standardisation and moderation of written response test.
Apprentices must take the multiple-choice test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.
The multiple-choice test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice. EPAOs must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of apprentices for example with, and not limited to, 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.
EPAOs must write a test specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs shown in the mapping. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. EPAOs should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The test specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
EPAOs will develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering previous item performance data, item analysis, standardisation, training and moderation. EPAOs will ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.
EPAOs must ensure that apprentices have a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
EPAOs must produce the following materials to support the multiple-choice test:
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
Theme KSBs |
Pass Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors |
Distinction Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors |
---|---|---|
(Core) Work preparation
S22 |
Reads and interprets written information correctly to establish task requirements. (S22) |
N/A |
(Core) Work environment
S13 S14 S15 S16 B1 |
Identifies and documents risks and hazards and applies control measures in-line with company procedures. (S14) Prioritises and promotes public health, workplace health and safety, and security by complying with health and safety regulations, safe working practices and procedures, following site security procedures and applying site standards for housekeeping to ensure the working environment is safe for themselves and others. (S13, S15, S16, B1) |
Justifies how control measures have the potential to minimise risks. (S14) |
(Core) Safety equipment
S11 |
Inspects and checks safety equipment against requirements, identifying and acting in line with procedures where there are issues. (S11) |
N/A |
(Core) Communication
K21 S26 B3 |
Applies a professional approach using verbal, written and electronic communication techniques suitable for the context, adapting style and use of terminology to suit the audience. Uses sector and industry terminology correctly. (K21, S26, B3) |
N/A |
(Core) Documentation
K19 S23 |
Completes work records required for tasks in full and correctly. (K19, S23) |
Explains the importance of data gathering and flow of documentation for wider use across the business. For example, performance commitments (outcome delivery incentives). (K19) |
(Water treatment process technician) Water treatment and process standards
K9 K10 K30 S1 S9 S10 S30 S31 S34 S35 B4 |
Takes responsibility to complete processes within limits of authority in compliance with industry regulations and company operational and quality procedures, escalating issues outside of limits of authority. (K10, S1, B4) Interrogates and interprets electronic control systems correctly. (S9) Monitors and controls water chemical dosing in line with company procedures. (S30) Operates water process control equipment and instrumentation in line with company's or manufacturer's instructions. (K9, S31) Uses data monitoring and control systems to monitor and control water treatment processes and performance within company tolerances, responding in line with company procedures. (K30, S10, S34). Monitors and controls the effectiveness of disinfection following procedures to achieve performance in line with water supply regulations. (S35) |
Evaluates data from electronic control systems to mitigate against potential issues. (S9) Analyses water treatment processes and performance approach in terms of optimisation. (K30) |
(Water treatment process technician) Water sampling and analysis
K28 S32 S33 |
Takes representative water samples in line with company procedures. Analyses and interprets on-site laboratory data and water quality monitoring instrumentation accurately, checking against water process parameters and taking action in line with company procedures for example recording, escalation, validation. (K28, S32, S33) |
Explains the importance of completing water sampling correctly and the impact of deviating samples. (K28) |
(Wastewater treatment process technician) Wastewater treatment and process standards
K34 S40 S43 S44 S45 |
Takes responsibility to complete processes within limits of authority in compliance with industry regulations and company operational and quality procedures, escalating issues outside of limits of authority. (K10, S1, B4) Interrogates and interprets electronic control systems accurately. (S9) Operates wastewater process control equipment and instrumentation in line with company's or manufacturer's instructions. (K9, S40) Monitors and maintains grit removal and screening assets in line with company policies (permits). (S43) Monitors and controls in the performance of sedimentation, biological and chemical treatment operations line with company procedures. (K34, S44) Uses data monitoring and control systems to monitor and control wastewater treatment processes and performance within company tolerances, responding in line with company procedures. (S10, S45) |
Evaluates data from electronic control systems to mitigate against potential issues. (S9) Analyses wastewater treatment processes and performance in terms of optimisation. (S45) |
(Wastewater treatment process technician) Wastewater monitoring and sampling and analysis
K35 S41 S42 |
Takes representative wastewater samples in line with company procedures. Analyses and interprets on-site testing equipment data and monitoring equipment correctly, checking against wastewater process parameters and taking action in line with company procedures for example recording, escalation, validation. (K35, S41, S42) |
Explains the importance of completing wastewater sampling correctly and the impact of deviating samples. (K35) |
(Wastewater treatment process technician) Risks of working in wastewater
K38 S47 |
Follows wastewater hygiene personal company procedures for example, correct use of personal protective equipment. (K38, S47) |
N/A |
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
Theme KSBs |
Pass Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors |
Distinction Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors |
---|---|---|
(Core) Working in the water industry
K2 K3 S21 |
Explains their role, identifying how they work with different teams and functions involved in operations. (K2, S21) Explains business operation considerations. (K3 |
N/A |
(Core) Environmental and sustainability
S18 S19 B2 |
Describes how they comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures and apply the principles of sustainable development in line with regulations and company procedures. (S18, S19) Describes how they prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability in the workplace. (B2) |
Evaluates the actual or potential value of a specific sustainable development approach. (S19) |
(Core) Asset and equipment maintenance
K6 S3 S4 S5 S6 |
Describes how they inspect and check assets in line with manufacturer’s or company’s procedures, identifying action required to address immediate issues. Describes how they monitor first line maintenance of process control equipment and instrumentation in line with manufacturer’s or company’s requirements. (K6, S3, S6) Describes how they follow procedures to safely remove assets for routine maintenance and recommission. (S4) Describes how they carry out validation or instrument checks of online equipment in line with manufacturer’s or company’s requirements, identifying action to resolve issues. (S5) |
Explains how they have identified action for future planned preventative maintenance, based on evidence, to reduce or potentially reduce risk of future failure. (K6, S6) |
(Core) Improvement and optimisation
K13 S8 |
Describes how they consider, identify, and promote areas for treatment process and asset optimisation improvement for example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and impact. (K13, S8) |
Evaluates the actual or potential value of a specific optimisation improvement suggestion. (K13, S8) |
(Core) Responding to alarms
S2 |
Describes how they follow alarm intervention procedures and resolve alarm issues for example, nuisance alarms. (S2) |
N/A |
(Core) Resolving faults
K15 S7 |
Describes how they apply fault- finding and problem-solving techniques, identifying the root cause of issues and resolving faults in line with procedures. (K15, S7) |
N/A |
(Core) Responding to incidents
K11 S12 S17 S20 |
Describes how they identify control measures to mitigate potential issues and instigate incident escalation procedures. (S12) Describes how they follow procedures for a given incident or emergency situation. (K11, S17) Describes how they conduct and assess the impact of activity and apply control measures. (S20) |
N/A |
(Core) Team working
K20 K22 K23 S25 S27 B5 B6 B7 |
Describes how they plan and organise work and resources using appropriate techniques and respond and adapt to meet work demands. (K20, S25, B6) Describes how they liaise, negotiate, and handle conflict in individual and or group environments to achieve desired outcomes. (S27) Describes how they support others to meet the team’s work goals using team working techniques and taking account of equality, diversity and inclusion. (K22, K23, B5) Describes CPD they have undertaken and future plans for CPD, explaining how they keep up to date with industry and individual development. Explains what the impact of their CPD has been and how it has benefited others and the business. (B7) |
Describes how they achieve efficiencies in the use of time or resources. (K20, S25) |
(Core) Information technology
K18 S24 |
Describes how they use information technology for different purposes (email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation, remote working platforms, work and asset management systems). Explains measures they take to comply with general data protection regulations (GDPR) and cyber security and why it is important. (K18, S24) |
N/A |
(Water treatment process technician) Water catchment and abstraction
K29 S28 S29 |
Describes how they select raw water source or blend of sources, managing and protecting catchment in line with licences, parameters, other users, and procedures. Explains the impact of breach of catchment management permits on the business. (K29, S28) Describes how they monitor and control water abstraction in line with procedures. (S29) |
N/A |
(Water treatment process technician) Waste streams management
S36 |
Describes how they monitor and control waste stream processes and performance to achieve compliance. (S36) |
N/A |
(Water treatment process technician) Shut down, isolation and recommission of water process streams
K8 K14 S37 |
Describes how they apply procedures to shut-down, isolate, and re-commission water process streams in line with procedures and impact on asset optimisation and performance. (K8, K14, S37) |
Explains how the process needs to be adapted during shutdown to maintain compliance and control risk. (K8) |
(Wastewater treatment process technician) Pumping operations
S39 |
Describes how they control internal pumping operations to meet operational requirements. (S39) |
N/A |
(Wastewater treatment process technician) Wastewater flows
K40 S38 |
Describes how they monitor and control incoming wastewater flows in line with permits and parameters. Explains the impact of breach of permits on the business. (K40, S38) |
N/A |
(Wastewater treatment process technician) Shut down, isolation and recommission of wastewater process streams
S46 |
Describes how they apply procedures to shut-down, isolate, and re-commission wastewater process streams in line with procedures and impact on asset optimisation and performance. (K8, K14, S46) |
Explains how the process needs to be adapted during shutdown to maintain compliance and control risk. (K8) |
Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
---|---|---|
Fail | 0 | 34 |
Pass | 35 | 42 |
Distinction | 43 | 50 |
The EPA methods contribute equally to the overall EPA grade.
Performance in the EPA will determine the apprenticeship grade of:
Independent assessors must individually grade the: observation with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence according to the requirements set out in this EPA plan.
EPAOs must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
Apprentices who fail one or more assessment method will be awarded an overall EPA fail.
Apprentices must achieve at least a pass in all the EPA methods to get an overall pass. To achieve an overall EPA ‘merit,’ apprentices must achieve a distinction in any two of the assessment methods and a pass in the other. To achieve an overall EPA ‘distinction,’ apprentices must achieve a distinction in all three assessment methods.
Grades from individual assessment methods should be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
Observation with questions | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Multiple-choice test | Overall Grading |
---|---|---|---|
Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass |
Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
Distinction | Pass | Pass | Pass |
Distinction | Pass | Distinction | Merit |
Distinction | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Merit |
Distinction | Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
Apprentices who fail one or more EPA method(s) can take a re-sit or a re-take at the employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.