Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST1292
  3. Version: 1.0
  4. Level: 3
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 30 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 4 months
  7. Maximum funding: £15000
  8. Route: Engineering and manufacturing
  9. Date updated: 19/10/2022
  10. Approved for delivery: 13 September 2022
  11. Lars code: 686
  12. EQA provider: Ofqual
  13. Review:

    This apprenticeship standard will be reviewed after three years

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Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Water industry network technicians respond to incidents and monitor water or waste water networks, resolving issues or identifying action required.

Occupation summary

Water network technicians work in the water industry. 

Employers in the industry range from small to large but are mainly large. 

This is a core and option apprenticeship. Apprentices will be trained and assessed against the core and one option (occupation). There are three options: 

  • Option1. Water distribution network technician 
  • Option 2. Water leakage technician 
  • Option 3. Wastewater network technician 

Water industry network technicians work outdoors on water or wastewater networks and may go to customer premises. They also spend time in the office. 

They may be required to drive between locations. Typically, a driving licence is required. 

They work in all weather conditions. 

As 24 hour and seven days per week operations, they may need to undertake standby duties and work shifts outside normal working hours.

The broad purpose of the occupations is to ensure continuity and efficiency of water or wastewater industry network services. 

In their daily work, they interact with operatives and other technicians. Plus stakeholders from teams across water or wastewater services, or within the wider business. This may include scientific teams, process treatment, engineering, maintenance, call centre, network optimisation, and contractors. They engage with customers and members of the public. They may also interact with internal and external stakeholders. This may include representatives from the Environmental Agency, police, highways, and other external regulators. 

They typically report to operational or network managers. They work with minimal supervision. They may work as part of a team and alone. 

They are responsible for meeting quality, industry regulations, safety, security, and environmental requirements. They ensure the health and safety of self and others. They need to consider how their work has the potential to impact customer service and the company's finances and reputation. 

Water distribution network technicians carry out planned and unplanned valving operations. They undertake customer visits to resolve water quality enquiries, which may include taking water quality samples and giving advice on water quality. They undertake and provide advice to customers on water fittings. They must take account of Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations.

Water leakage technicians use systems to identify potential and actual leakage and undertake activities or identify action required to reduce leakage. They assist in the repair and maintenance of meters and loggers. They will provide advice to customers on pipework ownership and responsibilities pertaining to leakage. 

Water distribution network technicians and water leakage technicians must have a National Water Hygiene (Blue) card. This involves training and assessment, and health screening. 

Wastewater technicians respond to incidents and monitor wastewater networks resolving issues or identifying action required. They carry out or supervise system maintenance activities such as high-pressure water jetting and de-silting operations. They undertake surveys for example CCTV camera work or Sonde tracing equipment to assist with fault diagnosis.  

Wastewater network technicians must take account of Environmental Quality Standards relating to planned and unplanned discharges. 

Typical job titles include:

Network customer technician or inspectors Quality assurance technician Sewer network inspector Sewerage technician Wastewater network technician Wastewater sewerage network technician Water distribution leakage technician Water distribution network technician Water field technician Water recycling technician

Duties

  • Duty 1 Conduct customer visits and liaise with customers. For example, in relation to network queries and investigation findings.
  • Duty 2 Investigate network complaints.
  • Duty 3 Complete the initial survey of street works and traffic management requirements and make arrangements.
  • Duty 4 Contribute to network continuous improvement and optimisation projects. For example, flushing plan to improve water quality or pressure optimisation.
  • Duty 5 Maintain network digital data and documentation. For example, asset records.
  • Duty 6 Ensure the maintenance of technician's tools and equipment.
  • Duty 7 (Water distribution network technician) Respond to water quality events for example, no water events, taste and odour concerns and poor pressure.
  • Duty 8 (Water distribution network technician) Monitor water network performance measures to identify issues for example, water pressure, flows, and leakage.
  • Duty 9 (Water distribution network technician) Re-zone distribution system.
  • Duty 10 (Water distribution network technician) Investigate and diagnose faults on the water network and complete action required. For example, Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) and network configuration issues.
  • Duty 11 (Water distribution network technician) Survey water network assets and raise remedial work.
  • Duty 12 (Water distribution network technician) Contribute to preventative maintenance of network, assets and systems. For example, pumps and control valves, air valves, PRVs (Pressure Reducing Valves), PSVs (Pressure Safety Valves), wash-outs and fire hydrants.
  • Duty 13 (Water distribution network technician) Undertake reactive leakage detection.
  • Duty 14 (Water distribution network technician) Carry out water quality sampling.
  • Duty 15 (Water distribution network technician) Support the business with pollution investigations or incidents. For example, flushing to waste following mains repair.
  • Duty 16 (Water leakage technician) Carry out leakage surveys on the distribution network including correlation surveys, sounding techniques, and acoustic logging.
  • Duty 17 (Water leakage technician) Identify and recommend repairs and follow-on work to address leakage.
  • Duty 18 (Water leakage technician) Monitor water network performance measures to identify issues. For example, water pressure, flows, and leakage.
  • Duty 19 (Water leakage technician) Investigate network usage to identify unaccounted for water, high users, and integrity of district meter areas.
  • Duty 20 (Water leakage technician) Maintain integrity of district meter areas. For example, check boundary values.
  • Duty 21 (Water leakage technician) Ensure meters and loggers are maintained.
  • Duty 22 (Water leakage technician) Respond to leakage alarms.
  • Duty 23 (Water leakage technician) Contribute to leakage trials: equipment and innovative ways of working.
  • Duty 24 (Wastewater network technician) Respond to customer reported incidents. For example, complaints, blockages, and smell.
  • Duty 25 (Wastewater network technician) Investigate and diagnose faults on wastewater network and identify action required (surveys).
  • Duty 26 (Wastewater network technician) Carry out planned maintenance on the sewer network for example, high pressure water jetting, flushing, and de-silting.
  • Duty 27 (Wastewater network technician) Assist with the response to burst leaks on the sewer network.
  • Duty 28 (Wastewater network technician) Respond to pollution incidents, carrying out mitigation.
  • Duty 29 (Wastewater network technician) React to alarms on the sewer network and trace to ensure high risk areas are closely monitored.
  • Duty 30 (Wastewater network technician) Liaise with contractors regarding work.
  • Duty 31 (Wastewater network technician) Support the business with pollution investigations or incidents.

Apprenticeship summary

ST1292, water industry network technician level 3


This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.

Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA. 

The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 30 months. The EPA period is typically 4 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.

EPA gateway

The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.



The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

Assessment methods


Observation with questions


You will be observed by an independent assessor completing your work. It will last at least 6 hours. They will ask you at least 5 questions.





Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence


You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 90 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.



Multiple-choice test

You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.

The test will have 50 multiple-choice questions. You will have 90 minutes to complete it.



The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.

Who to contact for help or more information

You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.



You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.

You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.


Reasonable adjustments


If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.


Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institute of Water for Engineering technician (Eng.Tech). 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.

Please contact the professional body for more details.

This apprenticeship 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.

Please contact the professional body for more details.

This apprenticeship 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.

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

Water network technicians work in the water industry. 

Employers in the industry range from small to large but are mainly large. 

This is a core and option apprenticeship. Apprentices will be trained and assessed against the core and one option (occupation). There are three options: 

  • Option1. Water distribution network technician 
  • Option 2. Water leakage technician 
  • Option 3. Wastewater network technician 

Water industry network technicians work outdoors on water or wastewater networks and may go to customer premises. They also spend time in the office. 

They may be required to drive between locations. Typically, a driving licence is required. 

They work in all weather conditions. 

As 24 hour and seven days per week operations, they may need to undertake standby duties and work shifts outside normal working hours.

The broad purpose of the occupations is to ensure continuity and efficiency of water or wastewater industry network services. 

In their daily work, they interact with operatives and other technicians. Plus stakeholders from teams across water or wastewater services, or within the wider business. This may include scientific teams, process treatment, engineering, maintenance, call centre, network optimisation, and contractors. They engage with customers and members of the public. They may also interact with internal and external stakeholders. This may include representatives from the Environmental Agency, police, highways, and other external regulators. 

They typically report to operational or network managers. They work with minimal supervision. They may work as part of a team and alone. 

They are responsible for meeting quality, industry regulations, safety, security, and environmental requirements. They ensure the health and safety of self and others. They need to consider how their work has the potential to impact customer service and the company's finances and reputation. 

Water distribution network technicians carry out planned and unplanned valving operations. They undertake customer visits to resolve water quality enquiries, which may include taking water quality samples and giving advice on water quality. They undertake and provide advice to customers on water fittings. They must take account of Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations.

Water leakage technicians use systems to identify potential and actual leakage and undertake activities or identify action required to reduce leakage. They assist in the repair and maintenance of meters and loggers. They will provide advice to customers on pipework ownership and responsibilities pertaining to leakage. 

Water distribution network technicians and water leakage technicians must have a National Water Hygiene (Blue) card. This involves training and assessment, and health screening. 

Wastewater technicians respond to incidents and monitor wastewater networks resolving issues or identifying action required. They carry out or supervise system maintenance activities such as high-pressure water jetting and de-silting operations. They undertake surveys for example CCTV camera work or Sonde tracing equipment to assist with fault diagnosis.  

Wastewater network technicians must take account of Environmental Quality Standards relating to planned and unplanned discharges. 

Typical job titles include:

Network customer technician or inspectors Quality assurance technician Sewer network inspector Sewerage technician Wastewater network technician Wastewater sewerage network technician Water distribution leakage technician Water distribution network technician Water field technician Water recycling technician

Entry requirements

Typically, 3 to 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and mathematics, or equivalent qualifications.

Core occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Conduct customer visits and liaise with customers. For example, in relation to network queries and investigation findings.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K6 K7 K9 K11 K14 K16 K17 K18 K20

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S12 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23

B1 B2 B3 B4 B6

Duty 2 Investigate network complaints.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K6 K7 K9 K10 K11 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S9 S10 S17 S18 S20 S21 S23

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 3 Complete the initial survey of street works and traffic management requirements and make arrangements.

K2 K4 K7 K8 K11 K18

S2 S3 S4 S5 S17 S18 S21

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 4 Contribute to network continuous improvement and optimisation projects. For example, flushing plan to improve water quality or pressure optimisation.

K1 K2 K6 K7 K11 K13 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20

S1 S2 S3 S6 S7 S8 S13 S17 S18 S20 S23

B1 B2 B4 B5 B6 B7

Duty 5 Maintain network digital data and documentation. For example, asset records.

K2 K4 K5 K7 K11 K15 K18

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S10 S14 S15 S16 S18

B1 B2 B4

Duty 6 Ensure the maintenance of technician's tools and equipment.

K2 K4 K11 K12 K18

S2 S3 S11 S18 S21

B1 B2 B4

Option duties

Water distribution network technician duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 7 Respond to water quality events for example, no water events, taste and odour concerns and poor pressure.

K2 K3 K4 K7 K9 K10 K11 K14 K16 K17 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S5 S8 S9 S12 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B3 B4 B6

Duty 8 Monitor water network performance measures to identify issues for example, water pressure, flows, and leakage.

K2 K4 K6 K7 K11 K14 K18 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S10 S12 S18 S19 S21 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 9 Re-zone distribution system.

K2 K4 K7 K11 K12 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S18 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 10 Investigate and diagnose faults on the water network and complete action required. For example, Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) and network configuration issues.

K2 K4 K6 K7 K9 K11 K13 K14 K18 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S10 S12 S18 S20 S21 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 11 Survey water network assets and raise remedial work.

K2 K4 K11 K12 K13 K14 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S12 S18 S19 S20 S21 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 12 Contribute to preventative maintenance of network, assets and systems. For example, pumps and control valves, air valves, PRVs (Pressure Reducing Valves), PSVs (Pressure Safety Valves), wash-outs and fire hydrants.

K2 K4 K9 K11 K18 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S12 S18 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 13 Undertake reactive leakage detection.

K2 K4 K7 K9 K11 K14 K18 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S12 S18 S20 S21 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 14 Carry out water quality sampling.

K2 K4 K7 K11 K18 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S18 S21 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 15 Support the business with pollution investigations or incidents. For example, flushing to waste following mains repair.

K2 K4 K9 K11 K13 K14 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S10 S12 S18 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31 S32 S33 S34 S35 S36

B1 B2 B4 B5 B6

Water leakage technician duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 16 Carry out leakage surveys on the distribution network including correlation surveys, sounding techniques, and acoustic logging.

K2 K3 K4 K7 K9 K11 K14 K17 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S5 S8 S9 S10 S12 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 17 Identify and recommend repairs and follow-on work to address leakage.

K2 K4 K10 K11 K13 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S12 S18 S20 S21 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 18 Monitor water network performance measures to identify issues. For example, water pressure, flows, and leakage.

K2 K4 K6 K7 K9 K11 K14 K18 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S10 S12 S18 S21 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 19 Investigate network usage to identify unaccounted for water, high users, and integrity of district meter areas.

K2 K4 K7 K11 K14 K18 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S10 S12 S18 S21 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 20 Maintain integrity of district meter areas. For example, check boundary values.

K2 K4 K7 K11 K12 K18 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S18 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 21 Ensure meters and loggers are maintained.

K2 K4 K11 K12 K14 K18 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S12 S18 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 22 Respond to leakage alarms.

K2 K4 K11 K14 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S12 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46 S47

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 23 Contribute to leakage trials: equipment and innovative ways of working.

K2 K4 K7 K9 K11 K13 K14 K18 K19 K20 K35 K36 K37 K38 K39 K40 K41 K42 K43

S1 S2 S3 S8 S10 S12 S17 S18 S20 S37 S38 S39 S40 S41 S42 S43 S44 S45 S46

B1 B2 B4 B5 B6

Wastewater network technician duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 24 Respond to customer reported incidents. For example, complaints, blockages, and smell.

K2 K3 K4 K7 K9 K11 K14 K16 K17 K18 K20 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S5 S8 S9 S12 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B3 B4 B6

Duty 25 Investigate and diagnose faults on wastewater network and identify action required (surveys).

K2 K4 K6 K7 K10 K11 K13 K14 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S10 S12 S18 S19 S20 S21 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 26 Carry out planned maintenance on the sewer network for example, high pressure water jetting, flushing, and de-silting.

K2 K4 K10 K11 K12 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S18 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 27 Assist with the response to burst leaks on the sewer network.

K2 K4 K9 K11 K14 K16 K19 K20 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S12 S18 S19 S20 S21 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B5 B6

Duty 28 Respond to pollution incidents, carrying out mitigation.

K2 K4 K6 K9 K11 K13 K14 K20 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S10 S12 S18 S19 S20 S21 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 29 React to alarms on the sewer network and trace to ensure high risk areas are closely monitored.

K2 K4 K11 K14 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S12 S18 S19 S21 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B6

Duty 30 Liaise with contractors regarding work.

K2 K4 K11 K12 K16 K19 K20 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S18 S20 S21 S23 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B5 B6

Duty 31 Support the business with pollution investigations or incidents.

K2 K4 K6 K9 K11 K13 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20 K44 K45 K46 K47 K48 K49 K50 K51 K52 K53 K54 K55 K56 K57

S1 S2 S3 S8 S9 S10 S12 S17 S18 S20 S21 S23 S48 S49 S50 S51 S52 S53 S54 S55

B1 B2 B4 B5 B6

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Overview of water and wastewater industries. Regulators and stakeholders: Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT), Customer Council for Water (CCWater), Environment Agency (EA), Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), and highway authority, Market Operator Services Limited (MOSL) (wholesale and retail) – roles and powers. Back to Duty

K2: Technician’s role. Limits of autonomy. Different teams and functions involved in operations: how they work together. Back to Duty

K3: Business operation considerations: how activities may impact customers, financial constraints, ethical business practices. Customer Experience Measure (CMEX). Regulatory and legislative performance measures: Guaranteed Standards Scheme (GSS) and Director General (DG) - response to written complaints (DG7). Back to Duty

K4: Operational and quality systems and procedures. Escalation procedures. What they are and how to use them. Back to Duty

K5: Digital documentation requirements (data logging) for example, maintenance records, and asset check records. Back to Duty

K6: Water and wastewater science. Microbiological parameters. Chemical parameters. Aesthetic parameters. Prescribed concentration or value, or legal limits. Industry target standards: how they may vary across companies. Back to Duty

K7: 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. Back to Duty

K8: New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) - signing, lighting, and guarding. Back to Duty

K9: Access to Private Land, Streets and Wayleaves. Back to Duty

K10: Duty to maintain apparatus in streets (Highway defect notices – section 81). Back to Duty

K11: 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). Manual handling. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Asbestos awareness. Lone working. Confined spaces awareness. Awareness of excavation support. 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). Back to Duty

K12: Asset security requirements and procedures. Back to Duty

K13: Environment and sustainability. Environmental Protection Act. Types of pollution and control measures. Principles of sustainable development. Waste management and waste streams. Invasive species and Duty of Care in the Environmental aspect. Back to Duty

K14: Fault finding and problem-solving techniques: root cause analysis and diagnostics. Optimisation. Back to Duty

K15: Information and digital technology: email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation, remote working platforms, and work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. Back to Duty

K16: Communication techniques: verbal, written and electronic. Adapting style to audience. Back to Duty

K17: Customer service techniques. Priority customers. Back to Duty

K18: Documentation requirements for example maintenance records, asset check records. Back to Duty

K19: 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. Back to Duty

K20: Equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Back to Duty

K21: The Water Supply (water fittings) regulations: waste, misuse, undue consumption, erroneous measurement, and contamination. Back to Duty

K22: National water hygiene: importance of water, water as a carrier of disease, potential contamination and its consequences and preventing contamination. Back to Duty

K23: Water 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. Back to Duty

K24: Water quality requirements. Drinking water safety plans. Water quality parameters and the role of water quality alarms. Exceedance procedures. Water quality incident investigation requirements. Water quality records. Consequences of failure. Back to Duty

K25: Restoration of supplies. Provision of alternative supplies. Back to Duty

K26: Water network assets and design: pumps and control valves, air valves, PRVs (Pressure Reducing Valve), PSVs (Pressure Sustaining Valve), wash-outs and fire hydrants, pumping stations, and treated water storage. Back to Duty

K27: Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Calibration requirements. Back to Duty

K28: Water quality monitoring, sampling, and testing requirements and techniques. Equipment, resources, and materials used. Sampling points. Back to Duty

K29: Materials used in clean water networks (mains and services): regulation 31. Back to Duty

K30: Valve and hydrant operations. Interruption to supply (DG3). Back to Duty

K31: Water distribution network technician. Pressure management. Low Pressure Register (DG2). Back to Duty

K32: Leakage monitoring methods and equipment: leak noise correlators, ground microphones, listening stick, acoustic loggers, and step test. 'Reactive' use of flow meter data (telemetry or nightlines). Back to Duty

K33: Sources of leakage. High users. Unaccounted for properties. Change of use of buildings. Theft investigation. Domestic and commercial leakage. Determining pipe ownership. Notification process. Back to Duty

K34: National water hygiene: importance of water, water as a carrier of disease, potential contamination and its consequences and preventing contamination. Back to Duty

K35: Water quality requirements. Drinking water safety plans. Water quality parameters and the role of water quality alarms. Exceedance procedures. Water quality incident investigation requirements. Water quality records. Consequences of failure. Back to Duty

K36: Leakage detection operations. Sources of leakage. High users. Unaccounted for properties. Change of use of buildings. Theft investigation. Customer side leakage. Determining pipe ownership. Back to Duty

K37: Leakage performance monitoring methods and equipment: leak noise correlators, ground microphones, listening stick, acoustic loggers, and dynamic pressure modelling. Data logging operations. 'Proactive' use of flow meter data (telemetry or nightlines). Back to Duty

K38: New leakage technology trials. Back to Duty

K39: Water network assets and design: pumps and control valves, air valves, PRVs (Pressure Reducing Valve), PSVs (Pressure Sustaining Valve), wash-outs and fire hydrants, pumping stations, and treated water storage. Back to Duty

K40: Materials used in clean water networks (mains and services): regulation 31. Back to Duty

K41: Valve and hydrant operations. Back to Duty

K42: Pressure management. Low Pressure Register (DG2). Back to Duty

K43: Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Calibration requirements. Back to Duty

K44: 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. Nutrients. Odour. Back to Duty

K45: Regulatory pollution reporting requirements and individuals limits of authority. Flooding reporting (DG5). Back to Duty

K46: Sewer performance and flow surveys. Back to Duty

K47: Working in confined spaces: safety equipment, respiratory apparatus, and lifting equipment. Back to Duty

K48: Wastewater networks assets and design: new connections, adopted sewers, and private sewers. Pipework responsibilities and data capture. Back to Duty

K49: Wastewater networks construction materials. Back to Duty

K50: Wastewater network hydraulics and flow. Back to Duty

K51: Sewer pumping station operations. Back to Duty

K52: Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Back to Duty

K53: Combined sewer overflows operation and maintenance requirements. Back to Duty

K54: Fat, oil, grease, and un-flushables procedures. Back to Duty

K55: Water jetting operations. Back to Duty

K56: Investigatory equipment operations for example, CCTV operations. Back to Duty

K57: Sonde equipment for location of blockages or defects. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Comply with (water or wastewater) industry regulations and procedures. Back to Duty

S2: Complete risk assessments: identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Apply control measures. Back to Duty

S3: Comply with health and safety regulations, and safe working and security practices and procedures. Back to Duty

S4: Set out and remove signing, lighting, and guarding. Back to Duty

S5: Conduct vehicle checks. Back to Duty

S6: Conduct and assess impact of activity for example, environmental, cost, reputation, safety, and health. Apply control measures. Back to Duty

S7: 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. Back to Duty

S8: Apply principles of sustainable development. For example, in choice of materials. Back to Duty

S9: Trace and locate network services. Back to Duty

S10: Collect mitigation data or evidence. Back to Duty

S11: Check technician tools and equipment. Conduct maintenance for example, calibration. Back to Duty

S12: Identify issues. Apply fault-finding and problem-solving techniques: identify root cause. Resolve faults. Back to Duty

S13: Consider, identify, and promote areas for improvement. For example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and impact. Back to Duty

S14: Use information technology. Follow cyber security requirements. Comply with GDPR. Back to Duty

S15: Interpret digital mapping systems and update. Back to Duty

S16: Complete work documentation: enter and record data and information using digital technology for example, hand-held devices. Back to Duty

S17: Read and interpret written information. For example, work instructions, and service level agreements. Back to Duty

S18: Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. For example, equipment, traffic management, and personnel. Back to Duty

S19: Prioritise work activities. Back to Duty

S20: Communicate verbally and in writing. For example, with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders. Use water industry terminology where appropriate. Back to Duty

S21: Identify and escalate issues. Back to Duty

S22: Provide advice and guidance to customers. Back to Duty

S23: Liaise with, negotiate with, and handle conflict in individual or group environments. Back to Duty

S24: Apply and enforce water fittings regulations to customer installations for example, rainwater harvest systems and solar panels. Back to Duty

S25: Read and interpret technical data for example, flows and pressures. Back to Duty

S26: Install pressure gauges. Back to Duty

S27: Conduct flow and pressure measurements. Back to Duty

S28: Identify different valve types. Operate multiple valves, hydrants and washouts including isolation and recharging of mains. Back to Duty

S29: Follow hygiene practices for example, disinfect equipment. Back to Duty

S30: Select and use water quality testing equipment to test for water quality for example, chlorine, turbidity, taste, odour, and clarity. Back to Duty

S31: Sample for chemical and micro-biological analysis. Back to Duty

S32: Set up temporary loggers (flow and pressure). Back to Duty

S33: Carry out network optimisation activity. For example, PRV, PSV, and air valve maintenance. Back to Duty

S34: Select and use leakage detection tools and methods to identify source of leakage. For example, step testing, acoustic and electronic, data logging ground microphones, and correlators. Back to Duty

S35: Inspect and check network assets for example, air values, PRV, critical values, fire hydrant. Identify action. Back to Duty

S36: Select and use equipment to complete planned preventative maintenance. For example, conduct high velocity mains cleansing and low turnover flushing. Back to Duty

S37: Install pressure gauges. Back to Duty

S38: Conduct step testing using valves. Back to Duty

S39: Follow hygiene practices for example, disinfect equipment. Back to Duty

S40: Set up temporary loggers (flow and pressure). Back to Duty

S41: Select and use initial leakage detection equipment and methods. For example, acoustic and electronic, data logging, ground microphones, and correlators. Back to Duty

S42: Use specific leakage detection equipment and methods to identify leakage pin-point for example, network or customer side. Back to Duty

S43: Conduct targeted DMA (district metered area) survey. Back to Duty

S44: Read and interpret technical data for example, flows and pressures. Back to Duty

S45: Access, download, and interpret data from pressure and flow loggers. Back to Duty

S46: Test and assess application of innovative leakage equipment. Back to Duty

S47: Apply maintenance practices to meters and loggers. Identify and arrange repairs. Back to Duty

S48: Trace or locate drain or sewer. Back to Duty

S49: Complete visual inspection to check assets for example, combined sewer overflow, non-return valves, flow control devices, and storage tanks. Identify action. Back to Duty

S50: Use dye testing to trace and investigate cross or illegal connections. Back to Duty

S51: Use digital inspection equipment for example, CCTV to check assets. Identify action. Back to Duty

S52: Use sonde equipment. Back to Duty

S53: Select and use blockage removal equipment for example, rods and jetting equipment. Back to Duty

S54: Select and use equipment to apply first line maintenance techniques for example, replace seals, lubricate, de-silt, and de-scale. Back to Duty

S55: Follow alarm response procedures. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Prioritise and promote public health, workplace health and safety, and security. Back to Duty

B2: Prioritise and promote the environment, and sustainability. Back to Duty

B3: Apply a professional approach. Back to Duty

B4: Take ownership for work and responsibility for the quality of work and impact on others. Back to Duty

B5: Team-focus to meet work goals: support others. Back to Duty

B6: Respond and adapt to work demands. Back to Duty

B7: Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice. Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

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.

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • The Institute of Water for Engineering technician (Eng.Tech). 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 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 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.
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.0

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the water industry network technician apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Water industry network 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 register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).

A full-time apprentice typically spends 30 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway) working towards competence as a water industry network technician. All apprentices must spend at least 12 months on-programme. All apprentices must complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules.

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are:

Assessment method 1 - observation with questions:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 3 - multiple-choice test:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 30 months

The apprentice must complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) of the occupational standard.

The apprentice must complete training towards English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence.

End-point assessment gateway

The apprentice's employer must be content that the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard.

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think the apprentice:

  • is working at or above the occupational standard as a water industry network technician
  • has the evidence required to pass the gateway and is ready to take the EPA

The apprentice must have achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

End-point assessment - typically 4 months

Grades available for each assessment method:

Observation with questions

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Multiple-choice test

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction
Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institute of Water for Engineering technician (Eng.Tech). 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 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 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
  • Re-take and re-sit grade cap: pass
  • Re-sit timeframe: typically 2 months
  • Re-take timeframe: typically 4 months

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 4 months.

The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and the EPA should start as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think their apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard. The apprentice will then enter the gateway. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider(s), but the employer must make the decision.

The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.

These are:

  • achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.

Evidence sources may include:

  • workplace documentation and records
  • workplace policies and procedures
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips (maximum total duration 20 minutes); the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.

The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

Order of assessment methods

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.

Observation with questions

Overview

In the observation with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice in their workplace and asks questions. The apprentice completes their day-to-day duties under normal working conditions. Simulation is not permitted. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • this is a practical role, best demonstrated through completing tasks in a real work setting
  • observation makes use of employer resources and equipment, which will be familiar to the apprentice and thus allow them to perform at their best
  • tasks completed during the observation should contribute to workplace productivity and are valid
  • it is a holistic assessment method

Delivery

The observation with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the observation with questions.

The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.

The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the observation with questions.

The observation must take 6 hours.

The independent assessor can increase the time of the observation with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.

The observation may be split into discrete sections held on the same working day.

The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations during the working day.

The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the observation with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.

The independent assessor should observe the following during the observation:

Core activities

  • liaise with customers
  • survey and arrange street works and traffic management requirements
  • maintain health and safety
  • maintain asset security
  • maintain network digital data and documentation

The activities should be observed in the context of the apprentice’s occupational context (option): water distribution, leakage, or wastewater.

Option 1. Water distribution network technician activities

  • conduct valve operations in public access area
  • test water quality

Option 2. Water leakage technician activities

  • carry out leakage detection in public access area - validating the result and identifying action required

Option 3. Wastewater network technician activities.

  • remove mains blockages in public access area
  • conduct asset inspection

These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The independent assessor must ask questions. The purpose of the independent assessor's questions is to assess the breadth and depth of underpinning knowledge against the grading descriptors.

Questioning can occur both during and after the observation. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 5 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor 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 where clarification is required. 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 above set number of questions for the observation with questions and should be kept to a minimum.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The observation and responses to questions must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the KSBs observed
  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

Assessment location

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.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the observation with questions:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Overview

In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • it allows for assessment of KSBs that do not occur on a predictable or regular basis
  • it allows for testing of responses where there are a range of potential answers that cannot be tested through the multiple-choice test
  • it can be conducted remotely, potentially reducing cost

Delivery

The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to assess the following themes:

Core

  • working in the water industry
  • the environment and sustainability
  • collecting evidence
  • fault-finding and problem solving; making recommendations
  • team working
  • information technology and written communications

The themes will be assessed in the context of the apprentice’s occupational context (option): water distribution, leakage, or wastewater.

Option 1. Water distribution network technician

  • detecting leakage
  • pressure and flow measurement
  • water sampling
  • network optimisation
  • network maintenance
  • water fittings regulations

Option 2. Water leakage technician

  • monitoring leakage performance
  • contributing to leakage trials
  • step testing
  • maintenance of meters or loggers

Option 3. Wastewater network technician

  • responding to pollution incidents
  • reacting to alarms
  • combined sewer overflow maintenance
  • specialist techniques

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.

The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, it 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.

The independent assessor must ask at least 10 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required. The independent assessor must use the questions from their EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

Assessment location

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.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.

Multiple-choice test

Overview

In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • it allows for the efficient testing of knowledge where there is a right or wrong answer
  • it allows for flexibility in terms of when, where, and how it is taken
  • it allows larger volumes of apprentices to be assessed at one time

Delivery

The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The multiple-choice test can be computer or paper based.

The multiple-choice test must consist of 50 multiple-choice questions.

Multiple-choice questions must have four options, with one correct answer.

The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks' notice of the date and time of the multiple-choice test.

Test administration

The apprentice 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 under the responsibility of the EPAO.

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 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.

Marking

The multiple-choice test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed.

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 multiple-choice test.

Assessment location

The apprentice 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 may take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice. The EPAO must ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example with, and not limited to, 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the multiple-choice test:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • test specification
    • sample test and mark schemes
    • live tests and mark schemes
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.

Grading

Observation with questions

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 environment
K8 K12 S2 S3 S4 S5 B1

Identifies and documents risks and hazards and applies control measures in-line with company procedures. (S2)

Prioritises and promotes public health, workplace health and safety, and security by complying with regulations, working practices and procedures, to ensure the working environment is safe for themselves and others and secure. (K12, S3, B1)

Sets out signing, lighting and guarding in compliance with NRSWA requirements. (K8, S4)

Conducts vehicle checks in line with company procedures. (S5)

None

(Core) Work preparation
S9 S11 S17

Traces and locates network services required for the task. (S9)

Checks tools and equipment are safe for use. Completes maintenance of tools and equipment including checking calibration records and calibration where required. (S11)

Reads and interprets written information correctly to establish task requirements. (S17)

None

(Core) Procedures
K4 S1 S21 B4

Takes responsibility to complete tasks within limits of authority in compliance with industry regulations and company operational and quality procedures, identifying and escalating issues outside of limits of authority. (K4, S1, S21, B4)

None

(Core) Communication and customer service
K16 K17 S20 S22 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. (K16, S20, B3)

Provides advice and guidance to customers to meet their needs. (K17, S22)

Provides additional information to add value for example, provides leaflets to support advice, promotes digital interaction. (K17, S22)

(Core) Documentation
K5 K18 S15 S16

Interprets digital mapping systems to understand asset location and configuration required for the task. Updates digital mapping systems for example, enters corrective action updates identified during the task. (K5, S15)

Completes digital work documentation required for tasks - entering and recording data and information correctly and in full. (K18, S16)

Explains the importance of updating mapping systems and correct mapping records in relation to the potential impact on the network and customers. (K5)

(Water distribution network technician) Valve operations
K30 S28 S29 S35

Identifies different valve types correctly. Operates multiple valves, hydrants, and washouts including isolating and recharging of mains to achieve task requirements in line with company’s procedures and DG3 requirements. (K30, S28)

Follows hygiene practices in line with industry and company’s procedures. (S29) 

Inspects and checks network assets confirming operability, integrity, and status – identifying action required. (S35)

Explains the importance of valve and hydrant operations in maintaining a calm network and the impact of pressure transients on company assets and customers. (K30)

(Water distribution network technician) Test water quality
S30

Selects and uses water quality testing equipment to test for water quality parameters in line with company’s procedure to ensure water quality compliance. (S30)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Leakage detection
S37 S39 S40 S41 S42 S44

Installs pressure gauges safely in line with manufacturers and company procedures. (S37)     

Follows hygiene practices in line with industry and company procedures. (S39)   

Sets up temporary loggers in line with manufacturers and company procedures. (S40)  

Selects and uses leakage detection equipment and methods suitable for the network assets to detect source of leakage and validates the result for example, velocity check and filtering. (S41)

Selects and uses specific leakage detection equipment and methods to identify leakage pin-point. (S42)

Reads and interprets technical data correctly for example, from pressure gauges and temporary loggers, identifying units of measurement. (S44)

Use of selected equipment achieves task efficiencies; for example, mitigates against potential errors (right first time), applies advanced equipment features and functionality. (S42)

(Wastewater network technician) Remove mains blockages
K54 S53

Selects and uses blockage removal equipment appropriate for the task in line with company’s procedures. (K54, S53)

Use of selected equipment  achieves task efficiencies; for example, mitigates against potential errors (right first time), applies advanced equipment features and functionality. (S53)

(Wastewater network technician) Asset inspection
K56 S48 S49 S51 S54

Traces or locates drain or sewer required for the task. (S48)

Completes inspection – visual and using digital equipment – to check assets, identifying any issues and action required. Uses digital inspection equipment in line with manufacturer's instructions for use. (K56, S49, S51)

Selects equipment appropriate for the task and applies first line maintenance techniques in line with company’s procedures. (S54)

None

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

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

Explains their role, identifying how they work with different teams and functions involved in operations. (K2)

None

(Core) The environment and sustainability
S6 S7 S8 B2

Describes how they assess the impact of activity and apply control measures. (S6)

Describes how they comply with environment and sustainability regulations and procedures and apply the principles of sustainable development in line with regulations and company procedures. (S7, S8)

Describes how they prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability in the workplace. (B2)

None

(Core) Collecting evidence
S10

Describes how they collect mitigation data or evidence to support investigations. (S10)

None

(Core) Fault-finding and problem solving: making recommendations
K14 S12 S13

Describes how they apply fault-finding and problem-solving techniques, identifying the root cause of issues and resolving faults in line with procedures. (K14, S12)

Describes how they consider, identify, and promote areas for improvement for example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and impact. (S13)

Evaluates the actual or potential value of a specific improvement suggestion. (S13)

(Core) Team working
K19 K20 S18 S19 S23 B5 B6 B7

Describes how they prioritise work activities and identify and organise resources to meet task requirements. (S18, S19)

Describes how they respond and adapt to meet work demands. (B6)

Describes how they liaise, negotiate, and handle conflict in individual and group environments to achieve desired outcomes. (S23)

Describes how they support others to meet the team’s work goals using team working techniques and taking account of equality, diversity and inclusion. (K19, K20)

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. (S19)

(Core) Information technology
K15 S14

Describes how they use information technology for different purposes (email, word, excel, presentation, remote working platforms, work and asset management systems). (S14)

Explains the importance of protecting data in line with legal and employer requirements. Explains measures they take to comply with general data protection regulations (GDPR) and cyber security and why it is important. (K15)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Detecting leakage
K32 S34

Describes how they select and use different leakage detection tools and methods to identify the source of leakage for different leakage situations. (K32, S34)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Pressure and flow measurement
K31 S25 S26 S27 S32

Describes how they install pressure gauges safely in line with manufacturers' and company procedures. (S26)

Describes how they set up temporary loggers following manufacturers' or employer’s guidelines to find out if there is a pressure or flow issue. (S32)

Describes how they conduct flow and pressure measurements, reading and interpreting technical data correctly identifying units of measurement and confirming level of service. (K31, S25, S27)

Evaluates why meeting DG2 requirements is critical to the water industry. (K31)

(Water distribution network technician) Water sampling
K28 S31

Describes how they select and use sampling equipment to test for chemical and micro-biological analysis in line with company procedure avoiding non-compliant samples for example, correct tap selection and transportation. (K28, S31)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Network optimisation
S33

Describes how they complete maintenance activity in line with company procedure to maintain or achieve network optimisation and maintain water quality. (S33)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Network maintenance
K27 S36

Describes how they select equipment appropriate for the task and use equipment safely to complete planned preventative maintenance in line with company procedures; ensuring equipment is in calibration date. (K27, S36)

Justifies use of planned preventative maintenance approach over others for example, cost, effectiveness, impact on water quality. (K27, S36)

(Water distribution network technician) Water fittings regulations
S24

Describes how they apply and enforce water fittings regulations for customer installations for different situations. (S24)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Monitoring leakage performance
K36 K37 S43 S45

Describes how they conduct targeted DMA surveys using leakage performance monitoring methods and equipment suitable for the network assets to detect source of leakage. (K36, K37, S43)

Describes how they access, download, and interpret data from pressure and flow loggers to make evidence based judgements about for example, high consumption users, meter faults, and usage trends. (S45)

Evaluates data to justify potential approaches to improve network performance through optimisation and infrastructure improvement. (S45)

(Water leakage technician ) Contributing to leakage trials
K38 S46

Describes how they test and assess the application of innovative leakage equipment to identify its benefits over existing equipment or technology. (K38, S46)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Maintenance of meters or loggers
K43 S47

Describes how they apply maintenance practices to meters and loggers in line with manufacturer’s instructions and company procedures - ensuring equipment is in calibration date, identifying and arranging repairs in line with company procedures. (K43, S47)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Step testing
K41 S38

Describes how they conduct step testing using valves in line with company procedures. (K41, S38)

Justifies how their step testing plan mitigated risks and ensured planned outcome for example, stakeholder and customer engagement, contingencies, network returned to normal operating status. (S38)

(Wastewater network technician) Responding to pollution incidents
K45

Describes regulatory pollution reporting requirements and individual's limits of authority and flooding reporting in line with industry procedures. (K45)

Evaluates the importance of meeting regulatory requirements. (K45)

(Wastewater network technician) Maintenance
K52 K53

Explains different types of maintenance practices. (K52)

Explains the requirements for combined sewer overflows operation and maintenance in line company’s procedures. (K53)

Justifies use of planned preventative maintenance approach over others for example, cost, effectiveness, impact on whole-life asset costs. (K52)

(Wastewater network technician) Reacting to alarms
S55

Describes how they respond to alarms in line with company’s procedures. (S55)

None

(Wastewater network technician) Specialist techniques
K55 K57 S50 S52

Explains the circumstances when water jetting operations would be required and considerations for use. (K55)

Describes how they use sonde equipment for blockage or defect location in line with company's procedures. (K57, S50)

Describes how they use dye testing to trace and investigate cross or illegal connections in line with company’s procedures. (S50)

None

Multiple-choice test

Grade Minimum marks required Maximum marks required
Fail 0 34
Pass 35 42
Distinction 43 50

Overall EPA grading

Performance in the EPA determines the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction

An independent assessor must individually grade the: observation with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.

The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.

If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods, they will be awarded an overall fail. 

To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA merit, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in any two of the assessment methods and a pass in the other. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in all three assessment methods.

Grades from individual assessment methods must 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
Fail Any grade Any grade Fail
Any grade Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass Pass
Pass Pass Distinction Pass
Pass Distinction Pass Pass
Distinction Pass Pass Pass
Distinction Distinction Pass Merit
Distinction Pass Distinction Merit
Pass Distinction Distinction Merit
Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their 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.

The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.

The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 2 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 4 months of the EPA outcome notification.

Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.

Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.

The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • participate in and complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the occupational standard for a minimum of 12 months
  • complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules and as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • meet the gateway requirements 
  • undertake the EPA  

 

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the EPAO and training provider 
  • work with the training provider (where applicable) to support the apprentice in the workplace and to provide the opportunities for the apprentice to develop the KSBs
  • arrange and support off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard and is ready for EPA 
  • ensure that supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan 
  • liaise with the training provider and EPAO to ensure the EPA is booked in a timely manner

Post-gateway, the employer must: 

  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA (who, when, where) in a timely manner (including providing access to any employer-specific documentation as required, for example company policies)
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time which allows the opportunity for the apprentice to be assessed against the KSBs 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete all post-gateway elements of the EPA, and that any required supervision during this time (as stated within this EPA plan) is in place
  • where the apprentice is assessed in the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the resources used on a regular basis 
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt from the EPAO

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:  

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner 
  • conform to the requirements of the register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO) 
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP) for this apprenticeship 
  • understand the occupational standard 
  • make the EPA contractual arrangements, including agreeing the price of the EPA 
  • develop and produce assessment materials as detailed for each assessment method in this EPA plan 
  • appoint qualified and competent independent assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan to conduct assessments and oversee their working 
  • appoint administrators (and invigilators where required) to administer the EPA  
  • provide training for independent assessors in terms of good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and grading 
  • provide information, advice, guidance and documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA 
  • confirm all gateway requirements have been met as quickly as possible 
  • arrange for the EPA to take place, in consultation with the employer 
  • ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary, where the apprentice is not assessed in the workplace 
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to stakeholders 
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • have policies and procedures for internal quality assurance (IQA), and maintain records of IQA activity and moderation for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes 
  • deliver induction training for independent assessors, and for invigilators and markers (where used) 
  • undertake standardisation activity on this apprenticeship for an independent assessor before they conduct an EPA for the first time, if the EPA is updated and periodically (a minimum of annually) 
  • manage invigilation of the apprentice to maintain security of the assessment in line with the EPAO’s malpractice policy 
  • verify the identity of the apprentice  
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must: 

  • have the competence to assess the apprentice at the level of this apprenticeship and hold any required qualifications and experience in line with the requirements of the independent assessor as detailed in the IQA section of this EPA plan 
  • understand the occupational standard and the requirements of this EPA 
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence, up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation 
  • deliver the end-point assessment in-line with this EPA plan 
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO 
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • attend induction training 
  • attend standardisation events when they start working for the EPAO, before they conduct an EPA for the first time and a minimum of annually for this apprenticeship  
  • assess each assessment method, as determined by the EPA plan  
  • assess the KSBs assigned to each assessment method, as shown in the mapping of KSBs to assessment methods in this EPA plan  
  • make the grading decisions 
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions, for each apprentice, following instructions and using assessment recording documentation provided by the EPAO, in a timely manner 
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 
  • mark open (constructed) test answers accurately according to the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures 

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must: 

  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as listed in the occupational standard 
  • conduct training covering the KSBs agreed as part of the Commitment Statement or the Individual Learning Plan 
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning 
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA 

Marker

As a minimum, the marker must:

  • attend induction training as directed by the EPAO 
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider in all instances 
  • mark test answers in line with the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures 

Invigilator

As a minimum, the invigilator must: 

  • attend induction training as directed by the EPAO 
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider in all instances 
  • invigilate and supervise apprentices during tests and in breaks during assessment methods to prevent malpractice in accordance with the EPAO’s invigilation procedures 

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for reasonable adjustment
  • what reasonable adjustments may be made

Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.

Internal quality assurance

Internal quality assurance refers to how the EPAO ensures valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions. The EPAO must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities section:

The EPAO must also:

  • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent EPA regardless of employer, place, time or independent assessor
  • appoint independent assessors who are competent to deliver the EPA and who:
    • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 3 gained in the last 3 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector
  • operate induction training for anyone involved in the delivery or assessment of the EPA
  • provide training for independent assessors in good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and making grading decisions
  • provide ongoing training for markers and invigilators
  • provide standardisation activity for this apprenticeship standard for all independent assessors:
    • before they conduct an EPA for the first time
    • if the EPA is updated
    • periodically as appropriate (a minimum of annually)
  • conduct effective moderation of EPA decisions and grades
  • conduct appeals where required, according to the EPAO’s appeals procedure, reviewing and making final decisions on EPA decisions and grades
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider

Value for money

Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:

  • completing applicable assessment methods online (for example computer-based assessment)
  • utilising digital remote platforms to conduct applicable assessment methods
  • assessing multiple apprentices simultaneously where the method of assessment permits this
  • using the employer’s premises
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with:

The Institute of Water for Engineering technician (Eng.Tech). 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 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 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.

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1: Core.

Overview of water and wastewater industries. Regulators and stakeholders: Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT), Customer Council for Water (CCWater), Environment Agency (EA), Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), and highway authority, Market Operator Services Limited (MOSL) (wholesale and retail) – roles and powers.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K2: Core.

Technician’s role. Limits of autonomy. Different teams and functions involved in operations: how they work together.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K3: Core.

Business operation considerations: how activities may impact customers, financial constraints, ethical business practices. Customer Experience Measure (CMEX). Regulatory and legislative performance measures: Guaranteed Standards Scheme (GSS) and Director General (DG) - response to written complaints (DG7).

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K4: Core.

Operational and quality systems and procedures. Escalation procedures. What they are and how to use them.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K5: Core.

Digital documentation requirements (data logging) for example, maintenance records, and asset check records.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K6: Core.

Water and wastewater science. Microbiological parameters. Chemical parameters. Aesthetic parameters. Prescribed concentration or value, or legal limits. Industry target standards: how they may vary across companies.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K7: Core.

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.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K8: Core.

New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) - signing, lighting, and guarding.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K9: Core.

Access to Private Land, Streets and Wayleaves.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K10: Core.

Duty to maintain apparatus in streets (Highway defect notices – section 81).

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K11: Core.

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). Manual handling. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Asbestos awareness. Lone working. Confined spaces awareness. Awareness of excavation support. 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).

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K12: Core.

Asset security requirements and procedures.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K13: Core.

Environment and sustainability. Environmental Protection Act. Types of pollution and control measures. Principles of sustainable development. Waste management and waste streams. Invasive species and Duty of Care in the Environmental aspect.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K14: Core.

Fault finding and problem-solving techniques: root cause analysis and diagnostics. Optimisation.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K15: Core.

Information and digital technology: email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation, remote working platforms, and work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K16: Core.

Communication techniques: verbal, written and electronic. Adapting style to audience.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K17: Core.

Customer service techniques. Priority customers.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K18: Core.

Documentation requirements for example maintenance records, asset check records.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K19: Core.

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.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K20: Core.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K21: Water distribution network technician.

The Water Supply (water fittings) regulations: waste, misuse, undue consumption, erroneous measurement, and contamination.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K22: Water distribution network technician.

National water hygiene: importance of water, water as a carrier of disease, potential contamination and its consequences and preventing contamination.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K23: Water distribution network technician.

Water 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.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K24: Water distribution network technician.

Water quality requirements. Drinking water safety plans. Water quality parameters and the role of water quality alarms. Exceedance procedures. Water quality incident investigation requirements. Water quality records. Consequences of failure.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K25: Water distribution network technician.

Restoration of supplies. Provision of alternative supplies.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K26: Water distribution network technician.

Water network assets and design: pumps and control valves, air valves, PRVs (Pressure Reducing Valve), PSVs (Pressure Sustaining Valve), wash-outs and fire hydrants, pumping stations, and treated water storage.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K27: Water distribution network technician.

Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Calibration requirements.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K28: Water distribution network technician.

Water quality monitoring, sampling, and testing requirements and techniques. Equipment, resources, and materials used. Sampling points.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K29: Water distribution network technician.

Materials used in clean water networks (mains and services): regulation 31.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K30: Water distribution network technician.

Valve and hydrant operations. Interruption to supply (DG3).

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K31: Water distribution network technician.

Water distribution network technician. Pressure management. Low Pressure Register (DG2).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K32: Water distribution network technician.

Leakage monitoring methods and equipment: leak noise correlators, ground microphones, listening stick, acoustic loggers, and step test. 'Reactive' use of flow meter data (telemetry or nightlines).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K33: Water distribution network technician.

Sources of leakage. High users. Unaccounted for properties. Change of use of buildings. Theft investigation. Domestic and commercial leakage. Determining pipe ownership. Notification process.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K34: Water leakage technician.

National water hygiene: importance of water, water as a carrier of disease, potential contamination and its consequences and preventing contamination.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K35: Water leakage technician.

Water quality requirements. Drinking water safety plans. Water quality parameters and the role of water quality alarms. Exceedance procedures. Water quality incident investigation requirements. Water quality records. Consequences of failure.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K36: Water leakage technician.

Leakage detection operations. Sources of leakage. High users. Unaccounted for properties. Change of use of buildings. Theft investigation. Customer side leakage. Determining pipe ownership.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K37: Water leakage technician.

Leakage performance monitoring methods and equipment: leak noise correlators, ground microphones, listening stick, acoustic loggers, and dynamic pressure modelling. Data logging operations. 'Proactive' use of flow meter data (telemetry or nightlines).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K38: Water leakage technician.

New leakage technology trials.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K39: Water leakage technician.

Water network assets and design: pumps and control valves, air valves, PRVs (Pressure Reducing Valve), PSVs (Pressure Sustaining Valve), wash-outs and fire hydrants, pumping stations, and treated water storage.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K40: Water leakage technician.

Materials used in clean water networks (mains and services): regulation 31.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K41: Water leakage technician.

Valve and hydrant operations.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K42: Water leakage technician.

Pressure management. Low Pressure Register (DG2).

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K43: Water leakage technician.

Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Calibration requirements.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K44: Wastewater network technician.

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. Nutrients. Odour.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K45: Wastewater network technician.

Regulatory pollution reporting requirements and individuals limits of authority. Flooding reporting (DG5).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K46: Wastewater network technician.

Sewer performance and flow surveys.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K47: Wastewater network technician.

Working in confined spaces: safety equipment, respiratory apparatus, and lifting equipment.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K48: Wastewater network technician.

Wastewater networks assets and design: new connections, adopted sewers, and private sewers. Pipework responsibilities and data capture.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K49: Wastewater network technician.

Wastewater networks construction materials.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K50: Wastewater network technician.

Wastewater network hydraulics and flow.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K51: Wastewater network technician.

Sewer pumping station operations.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K52: Wastewater network technician.

Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K53: Wastewater network technician.

Combined sewer overflows operation and maintenance requirements.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K54: Wastewater network technician.

Fat, oil, grease, and un-flushables procedures.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K55: Wastewater network technician.

Water jetting operations.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K56: Wastewater network technician.

Investigatory equipment operations for example, CCTV operations.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K57: Wastewater network technician.

Sonde equipment for location of blockages or defects.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Skill Assessment methods
S1: Core.

Comply with (water or wastewater) industry regulations and procedures.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S2: Core.

Complete risk assessments: identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Apply control measures.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S3: Core.

Comply with health and safety regulations, and safe working and security practices and procedures.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S4: Core.

Set out and remove signing, lighting, and guarding.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S5: Core.

Conduct vehicle checks.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S6: Core.

Conduct and assess impact of activity for example, environmental, cost, reputation, safety, and health. Apply control measures.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S7: Core.

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.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S8: Core.

Apply principles of sustainable development. For example, in choice of materials.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S9: Core.

Trace and locate network services.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S10: Core.

Collect mitigation data or evidence.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S11: Core.

Check technician tools and equipment. Conduct maintenance for example, calibration.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S12: Core.

Identify issues. Apply fault-finding and problem-solving techniques: identify root cause. Resolve faults.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S13: Core.

Consider, identify, and promote areas for improvement. For example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and impact.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S14: Core.

Use information technology. Follow cyber security requirements. Comply with GDPR.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S15: Core.

Interpret digital mapping systems and update.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S16: Core.

Complete work documentation: enter and record data and information using digital technology for example, hand-held devices.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S17: Core.

Read and interpret written information. For example, work instructions, and service level agreements.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S18: Core.

Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. For example, equipment, traffic management, and personnel.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S19: Core.

Prioritise work activities.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S20: Core.

Communicate verbally and in writing. For example, with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders. Use water industry terminology where appropriate.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S21: Core.

Identify and escalate issues.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S22: Core.

Provide advice and guidance to customers.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S23: Core.

Liaise with, negotiate with, and handle conflict in individual or group environments.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S24: Water distribution network technician.

Apply and enforce water fittings regulations to customer installations for example, rainwater harvest systems and solar panels.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S25: Water distribution network technician.

Read and interpret technical data for example, flows and pressures.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S26: Water distribution network technician.

Install pressure gauges.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S27: Water distribution network technician.

Conduct flow and pressure measurements.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S28: Water distribution network technician.

Identify different valve types. Operate multiple valves, hydrants and washouts including isolation and recharging of mains.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S29: Water distribution network technician.

Follow hygiene practices for example, disinfect equipment.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S30: Water distribution network technician.

Select and use water quality testing equipment to test for water quality for example, chlorine, turbidity, taste, odour, and clarity.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S31: Water distribution network technician.

Sample for chemical and micro-biological analysis.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S32: Water distribution network technician.

Set up temporary loggers (flow and pressure).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S33: Water distribution network technician.

Carry out network optimisation activity. For example, PRV, PSV, and air valve maintenance.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S34: Water distribution network technician.

Select and use leakage detection tools and methods to identify source of leakage. For example, step testing, acoustic and electronic, data logging ground microphones, and correlators.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S35: Water distribution network technician.

Inspect and check network assets for example, air values, PRV, critical values, fire hydrant. Identify action.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S36: Water distribution network technician.

Select and use equipment to complete planned preventative maintenance. For example, conduct high velocity mains cleansing and low turnover flushing.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S37: Water leakage technician.

Install pressure gauges.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S38: Water leakage technician.

Conduct step testing using valves.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S39: Water leakage technician.

Follow hygiene practices for example, disinfect equipment.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S40: Water leakage technician.

Set up temporary loggers (flow and pressure).

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S41: Water leakage technician.

Select and use initial leakage detection equipment and methods. For example, acoustic and electronic, data logging, ground microphones, and correlators.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S42: Water leakage technician.

Use specific leakage detection equipment and methods to identify leakage pin-point for example, network or customer side.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S43: Water leakage technician.

Conduct targeted DMA (district metered area) survey.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S44: Water leakage technician.

Read and interpret technical data for example, flows and pressures.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S45: Water leakage technician.

Access, download, and interpret data from pressure and flow loggers.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S46: Water leakage technician.

Test and assess application of innovative leakage equipment.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S47: Water leakage technician.

Apply maintenance practices to meters and loggers. Identify and arrange repairs.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S48: Wastewater network technician.

Trace or locate drain or sewer.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S49: Wastewater network technician.

Complete visual inspection to check assets for example, combined sewer overflow, non-return valves, flow control devices, and storage tanks. Identify action.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S50: Wastewater network technician.

Use dye testing to trace and investigate cross or illegal connections.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S51: Wastewater network technician.

Use digital inspection equipment for example, CCTV to check assets. Identify action.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S52: Wastewater network technician.

Use sonde equipment.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S53: Wastewater network technician.

Select and use blockage removal equipment for example, rods and jetting equipment.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S54: Wastewater network technician.

Select and use equipment to apply first line maintenance techniques for example, replace seals, lubricate, de-silt, and de-scale.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S55: Wastewater network technician.

Follow alarm response procedures.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1: Core.

Prioritise and promote public health, workplace health and safety, and security.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
B2: Core.

Prioritise and promote the environment, and sustainability.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B3: Core.

Apply a professional approach.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
B4: Core.

Take ownership for work and responsibility for the quality of work and impact on others.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
B5: Core.

Team-focus to meet work goals: support others.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B6: Core.

Respond and adapt to work demands.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B7: Core.

Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Observation with questions

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
(Core) Work environment
K8 K12
S2 S3 S4 S5
B1

New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) - signing, lighting, and guarding. (K8)

Asset security requirements and procedures. (K12)

Complete risk assessments: identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Apply control measures. (S2)

Comply with health and safety regulations, and safe working and security practices and procedures. (S3)

Set out and remove signing, lighting, and guarding. (S4)

Conduct vehicle checks. (S5)

Prioritise and promote public health, workplace health and safety, and security. (B1)

(Core) Work preparation

S9 S11 S17

None

Trace and locate network services. (S9)

Check technician tools and equipment. Conduct maintenance for example, calibration. (S11)

Read and interpret written information. For example, work instructions, and service level agreements. (S17)

None

(Core) Procedures
K4
S1 S21
B4

Operational and quality systems and procedures. Escalation procedures. What they are and how to use them. (K4)

Comply with (water or wastewater) industry regulations and procedures. (S1)

Identify and escalate issues. (S21)

Take ownership for work and responsibility for the quality of work and impact on others. (B4)

(Core) Communication and customer service
K16 K17
S20 S22
B3

Communication techniques: verbal, written and electronic. Adapting style to audience. (K16)

Customer service techniques. Priority customers. (K17)

Communicate verbally and in writing. For example, with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders. Use water industry terminology where appropriate. (S20)

Provide advice and guidance to customers. (S22)

Apply a professional approach. (B3)

(Core) Documentation
K5 K18
S15 S16

Digital documentation requirements (data logging) for example, maintenance records, and asset check records. (K5)

Documentation requirements for example maintenance records, asset check records. (K18)

Interpret digital mapping systems and update. (S15)

Complete work documentation: enter and record data and information using digital technology for example, hand-held devices. (S16)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Valve operations
K30
S28 S29 S35

Valve and hydrant operations. Interruption to supply (DG3). (K30)

Identify different valve types. Operate multiple valves, hydrants and washouts including isolation and recharging of mains. (S28)

Follow hygiene practices for example, disinfect equipment. (S29)

Inspect and check network assets for example, air values, PRV, critical values, fire hydrant. Identify action. (S35)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Test water quality

S30

None

Select and use water quality testing equipment to test for water quality for example, chlorine, turbidity, taste, odour, and clarity. (S30)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Leakage detection

S37 S39 S40 S41 S42 S44

None

Install pressure gauges. (S37)

Follow hygiene practices for example, disinfect equipment. (S39)

Set up temporary loggers (flow and pressure). (S40)

Select and use initial leakage detection equipment and methods. For example, acoustic and electronic, data logging, ground microphones, and correlators. (S41)

Use specific leakage detection equipment and methods to identify leakage pin-point for example, network or customer side. (S42)

Read and interpret technical data for example, flows and pressures. (S44)

None

(Wastewater network technician) Remove mains blockages
K54
S53

Fat, oil, grease, and un-flushables procedures. (K54)

Select and use blockage removal equipment for example, rods and jetting equipment. (S53)

None

(Wastewater network technician) Asset inspection
K56
S48 S49 S51 S54

Investigatory equipment operations for example, CCTV operations. (K56)

Trace or locate drain or sewer. (S48)

Complete visual inspection to check assets for example, combined sewer overflow, non-return valves, flow control devices, and storage tanks. Identify action. (S49)

Use digital inspection equipment for example, CCTV to check assets. Identify action. (S51)

Select and use equipment to apply first line maintenance techniques for example, replace seals, lubricate, de-silt, and de-scale. (S54)

None

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
(Core) Working in the water industry
K2

Technician’s role. Limits of autonomy. Different teams and functions involved in operations: how they work together. (K2)

None

None

(Core) The environment and sustainability

S6 S7 S8
B2

None

Conduct and assess impact of activity for example, environmental, cost, reputation, safety, and health. Apply control measures. (S6)

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. (S7)

Apply principles of sustainable development. For example, in choice of materials. (S8)

Prioritise and promote the environment, and sustainability. (B2)

(Core) Collecting evidence

S10

None

Collect mitigation data or evidence. (S10)

None

(Core) Fault-finding and problem solving: making recommendations
K14
S12 S13

Fault finding and problem-solving techniques: root cause analysis and diagnostics. Optimisation. (K14)

Identify issues. Apply fault-finding and problem-solving techniques: identify root cause. Resolve faults. (S12)

Consider, identify, and promote areas for improvement. For example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and impact. (S13)

None

(Core) Team working
K19 K20
S18 S19 S23
B5 B6 B7

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. (K19)

Equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. (K20)

Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. For example, equipment, traffic management, and personnel. (S18)

Prioritise work activities. (S19)

Liaise with, negotiate with, and handle conflict in individual or group environments. (S23)

Team-focus to meet work goals: support others. (B5)

Respond and adapt to work demands. (B6)

Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice. (B7)

(Core) Information technology
K15
S14

Information and digital technology: email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation, remote working platforms, and work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. (K15)

Use information technology. Follow cyber security requirements. Comply with GDPR. (S14)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Detecting leakage
K32
S34

Leakage monitoring methods and equipment: leak noise correlators, ground microphones, listening stick, acoustic loggers, and step test. 'Reactive' use of flow meter data (telemetry or nightlines). (K32)

Select and use leakage detection tools and methods to identify source of leakage. For example, step testing, acoustic and electronic, data logging ground microphones, and correlators. (S34)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Pressure and flow measurement
K31
S25 S26 S27 S32

Water distribution network technician. Pressure management. Low Pressure Register (DG2). (K31)

Read and interpret technical data for example, flows and pressures. (S25)

Install pressure gauges. (S26)

Conduct flow and pressure measurements. (S27)

Set up temporary loggers (flow and pressure). (S32)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Water sampling
K28
S31

Water quality monitoring, sampling, and testing requirements and techniques. Equipment, resources, and materials used. Sampling points. (K28)

Sample for chemical and micro-biological analysis. (S31)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Network optimisation

S33

None

Carry out network optimisation activity. For example, PRV, PSV, and air valve maintenance. (S33)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Network maintenance
K27
S36

Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Calibration requirements. (K27)

Select and use equipment to complete planned preventative maintenance. For example, conduct high velocity mains cleansing and low turnover flushing. (S36)

None

(Water distribution network technician) Water fittings regulations

S24

None

Apply and enforce water fittings regulations to customer installations for example, rainwater harvest systems and solar panels. (S24)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Monitoring leakage performance
K36 K37
S43 S45

Leakage detection operations. Sources of leakage. High users. Unaccounted for properties. Change of use of buildings. Theft investigation. Customer side leakage. Determining pipe ownership. (K36)

Leakage performance monitoring methods and equipment: leak noise correlators, ground microphones, listening stick, acoustic loggers, and dynamic pressure modelling. Data logging operations. 'Proactive' use of flow meter data (telemetry or nightlines). (K37)

Conduct targeted DMA (district metered area) survey. (S43)

Access, download, and interpret data from pressure and flow loggers. (S45)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Contributing to leakage trials
K38
S46

New leakage technology trials. (K38)

Test and assess application of innovative leakage equipment. (S46)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Maintenance of meters or loggers
K43
S47

Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. Calibration requirements. (K43)

Apply maintenance practices to meters and loggers. Identify and arrange repairs. (S47)

None

(Water leakage technician ) Step testing
K41
S38

Valve and hydrant operations. (K41)

Conduct step testing using valves. (S38)

None

(Wastewater network technician) Responding to pollution incidents
K45

Regulatory pollution reporting requirements and individuals limits of authority. Flooding reporting (DG5). (K45)

None

None

(Wastewater network technician) Maintenance
K52 K53

Types of maintenance: planned preventative maintenance, and reactive. (K52)

Combined sewer overflows operation and maintenance requirements. (K53)

None

None

(Wastewater network technician) Reacting to alarms

S55

None

Follow alarm response procedures. (S55)

None

(Wastewater network technician) Specialist techniques
K55 K57
S50 S52

Water jetting operations. (K55)

Sonde equipment for location of blockages or defects. (K57)

Use dye testing to trace and investigate cross or illegal connections. (S50)

Use sonde equipment. (S52)

None

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Employers involved in creating the standard: Anglian Water, Northumbrian Water, Severn Trent Water, United Utilities, Wessex Water

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.0 Approved for delivery 13/09/2022 Not set Not set

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