During an industrial inspection, what task can a POTW pretreatment inspector perform?

A POTW (Publicly Owned Treatment Works) pretreatment inspector plays a crucial role in ensuring that industrial users comply with local regulations regarding wastewater discharges. One of the key duties of a pretreatment inspector is to inform industrial users of any new or updated pretreatment regulations. This is essential for maintaining compliance and safeguarding public health and the environment. By keeping industrial users informed, inspectors help ensure that facilities adapt to any changes in regulatory requirements, which may affect their operations and discharges.

The other tasks mentioned may not typically fall within the specific responsibilities of a pretreatment inspector. For instance, collecting hazardous waste samples usually falls under the purview of hazardous waste management professionals rather than general pretreatment inspectors. Conducting employee training is typically the responsibility of the industrial facilities themselves, though inspectors may recommend that training take place. Inspecting equipment for wear and tear, while important for operational safety, is generally the responsibility of the facility’s maintenance staff rather than the inspector. Thus, the primary role of informing industrial users about regulation changes is a core responsibility that aligns with the objectives of pretreatment programs.