Wastewater Collection: Alabama Grade I(C) Operator Guide
Alabama Public Wastewater Collection is a single Grade I(C) license (ADEM Admin. Code 335-10-1-.03) covering every public wastewater collection system in the state regardless of size. A collection system operator moves wastewater safely and reliably from the customer's service line to the treatment plant.
Gravity vs. force main systems
Most of a collection system relies on gravity flow through sloped pipe, sized and graded to maintain a minimum self-cleansing velocity (typically around 2 ft/sec) so solids don't settle and accumulate. Where terrain doesn't allow continuous gravity flow, lift (pump) stations raise wastewater into a force main under pressure. Operators must understand wet-well pump cycling, high-level alarms, and the odor/corrosion problems (hydrogen sulfide generation from septic conditions) that are common at