A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E T E N N E S S E E A S S O C I AT I O N O F U T I L I T Y D I S T R I C T S
3 rd Q u a r t e r 2 013 v o l . 2 7
O P E R AT O R E X P O R E C A P | E PA R U L E S O N L O W L E A D | U P C O M I N G S A F E T Y T R A I N I N G | N E W B O A R D O F F I C E R S
Tennessee Utility News SAFETY ISSUE
18 31 3 6 4 4
Region News Natural Gas Safety Standards TA U D ’ s N e w P r e s i d e n t & B o a r d M e m b e r Upcoming Classes
How Safe Are You?
Read the online Latest Issue & Archives Available | Schedules & Calendars
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E T E N N E S S E E A S S O C I AT I O N O F U T I L I T Y D I S T R I C T S
3 r d Q u a r t e r 2 0 13 v o l . 2 7
O P E R AT O R E X P O R E C A P | E P A R U L E S O N L O W L E A D | U P C O M I N G S A F E T Y T R A I N I N G | N E W B O A R D O F F I C E R S
Tennessee Utility News SAFETY ISSUE
Get the free mobile app at
18 31 36 44
2
Region News Natural Gas Safety Standards TA U D ’s N e w P r e s i d e n t & B o a r d M e m b e r Upcoming Classes
How Safe Are You?
http:/ / gettag.mobi
TAUD SUPERBOOSTERS >>> Superboosters are Associate members that provide sponsorship to TAUD events and more...
Affinity Benefits American Development Corp. HDSupply Waterworks Kidwell & Company Next Generation Underwriters Southeastern Tank, Inc. Tennessee Utility Assistance United Systems & Software, Inc. Wascon, Inc. Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital LLC
Alliance Water Resources C.I. Thornburg Co., Inc. Crom Corp. ECO-TECH, Inc. Energy Systems Group Garney Companies Inc. GRW Engineers, Inc. Jackson Thornton & Co., P.C. McWane Cast Iron Pipe Co. Raymond James Regions Bank Corporate Trust S & S Utility Sales, LLC Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Southern Pipe & Supply Tennessee 811 United Utilities, Inc. W & W Engineering, LLC 3rd Quarter, volume 27
John Bouchard & Sons Company M&H Kennedy Valve Master Meter, Inc. Southern Sales Co. The Haskell Co.
Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings Garver Gresham Smith & Partners Insituform Technologies, Inc. Jacobs Engineering Kazmier & Associates, Inc. Kentucky Glass Lined Tank Systems, Inc. McGill Associates, P.A. Piper Jaffray Stringfellow Inc. Veteran Management Services
3
Welcome to TAUD
T h e s e m e m b e r s j o i n e d t h e A s s o c i a t i o n i n t h e s e c o n d q u a r t e r. SUPERBOOSTERS * Silver ** Gold *** Platinum **** Diamond Hydrogeological Associates Data Marketing Network, Inc. Aquapoint.3 LLC Ferguson Enterprises Line-X of Murfreesboro Lifting Solutions, LLC Vizionary Document Solution Raymond James *** Process Solutions, Inc. Equipment Controls Madewell Products Corp. Bush Brothers & Company Chlorinators Incorporated Midco Diving & Marine Services, Inc. Rate Studies Trench Safety and Supply Trestles
Over 700 members strong, TAUD is the source for utilities and industry enterprises to network, share knowledge and strengthen the water, wastewater & natural gas utilities in Tennessee. Join Today by visiting www.taud.org.
Does your utility need new equipment, a new computer system, new vehicles ? Thinking about upgrading to an Automatic Meter Reading System? No matter what your financial needs are
TUA has a loan for your utility.
Amounts from $150,000 up to $50,000,000 dollars Terms from 1 year to 30 years If you need financing call or email: John Hall 931.607.1014 johnhall@taud.org 4
Dan Martin 931.312.9405 Danmartin@taud.org TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Freddie Weston | President West Wilson Utility District
OFFICE FAX WEB EMAIL
ADMINISTRATIVE
TAUD 2013 Officers & Board of Directors
David Callahan | Vice-President Soddy Daisy Utility District
Penny Funk | Office Manager PennyFunk@taud.org Carol Mims | Accountant CarolMims@taud.org (615) 900-1013
Vanessa Solis | Administrative Assistant VanessaSolis@taud.org
TRAINING STATION
Charlie Anderson Bloomingdale Utility District
John Hall | Advocacy/Finance JohnHall@taud.org (931) 607-1014
Colleen Sauvé | Publications & Advertising Colleen@taud.org (615) 900-1015
Tom Atchley | Treasurer Hendersonville Utility District
Nick Newman Memphis Light, Gas & Water
Bob Freudenthal | Executive Director BobFreudenthal@taud.org
Beth Hardiman | Event Planner & Member Services BethHardiman@taud.org (615) 900-1014
Pat Riley | Secretary Gibson County Utility District
John Brown Harpeth Valley Utilities District
800-486-9022 | 615-896-9022 615-898-8283 www.taud.org taud@taud.org
Brent Ogles | Education Manager BrentOgles@taud.org (615) 556-6002 or (615) 900-1011 John Shadwick | Training Specialist JohnShadwick@taud.org (615) 804-4069 or (615) 900-1012 Tonia Pass | Education Assistant ToniaPass@taud.org (615) 900-1000
Phillip Combs | NRWA Director Alpha-Talbott Utility District Tim Pelham West Warren-Viola Utility District Don Stafford Eastside Utility District
CIRCUIT RIDERS
Drexel Heidel West Knox Utility District Tony Wyatt | West TN, Field Supervisor TonyWyatt@taud.org (731) 415-9101 Kevin Gilliam | Middle TN, Water Circuit Rider KevinGilliam@taud.org (931) 636-1672 Steve Roberts | East TN, Water Circuit Rider SteveRoberts@taud.org (865) 256-5383 Larry Lewis | Source Water Protection Technician LarryLewis@taud.org (731) 234-0360
Mike Green Warren County Utility District
Greg Baker | Groundwater Specialist/IT Specialist GregBaker@taud.org (731) 225-5240
Bruce Giles First Utility District of Knox County
Dewayne Culpepper | West TN, Wastewater Technician DewayneCulpepper@taud.org (931) 607-6981
Larry Kidwell | Associate Advisor Kidwell & Co. VITAL FOR TENNESSEE’S FUTURE
Dan Martin | East TN, Wastewater Technician DanMartin@taud.org (931) 312-9405 5
3
IN THIS ISSUE >>>
8 13 15 18 23 27 31 35 36 38 42 44 46
2013 Operator Expo Highlights Call Before You Dig Prepare for the Lead Free Act Region Meeting News The Hazard Communication Standard & The Globally Harmonized System Are You Adequately Trained in Safety Natural Gas Safety Standards TUA Serves 17K with Cross Connection Program Meet TAUD’s New President & Board Member TUEC’s Scholarship Golf Tournament TAUD’s 2013 Annual Meeting Upcoming Classes - TAUD Training Station New Game - Spot the Differences Cover Photo : 2013 Operator Expo, Sawhorse Industries
Can you find the frog hidden somewhere in the graphics or photos of this issue? same size & color as shown here. Answer on page 46. Happy Hunting!
Executive Editor | Penny Funk Managing Editor & Art Direction | Colleen Sauvé Assistant Editor & Graphic Design | Vanessa Solis Assistant Editor | Beth Hardiman Contributors | Kathy Quartermaine, Steve Roberts, Larry Lewis, Chuck Page, Brent Ogles and Donald L. Scholes Image Credits Wrapped Builder © Tomasz Trojanowski Industrial Pipeline with Gas & Oil © Denys Prykhodov Construction Professional © Lisa F. Young Executive Chair © mathisa Tennessee Utility News is published quarterly by the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts (TAUD). TAUD assumes no responsibility for opinions or statements of facts expressed by contributors, advertisements and editorials do not represent official policies of the Association. The right to publish, edit or deny publishing and material submitted for publication is reserved by TAUD. To submit editorial or advertising, please contact Colleen Sauvé, (615) 900-1015 or colleen@taud.org. “Tennessee Association of Utility Districts” “@TAUDtweets” 6
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
UPCOMING EVENTS >>> Utility Leadership Conference 12 Hrs of Commissioner Training Park Vista Hotel Gatlinburg, Tennessee Administrative Professionals Conference 8 Hrs of TAP Credits Inn at Opryland Hotel Nashville, Tennessee
NOVEMBER
6-8 DECEMBER 4-6
Conference information is subject to change. For the most current information and online registration, please visit www.taud.org or call 615-896-9022.
3rd Quarter, volume 27
7
2013
Operator Expo Highlights By Colleen Sauve
Next to TAUD’s Business of Running a Utility Conference in August, TAUD’s annual Operator Expo is one of the highlight events of the year. Offering continuing education credit, the May 16 event was attended by nine-hundred and forty-six (946) water and wastewater operators as well as professional engineers. This year the event boasted over 100 vendors across the James E. Ward Agricultural Center at Lebanon’s Fairgrounds. Each year, the industry expo exhibits the best in statewide resources, technical equipment and the latest technology. As one of the only events uniting operators, it is also a venue for friendly competition as well as award-winning recognition. Challenging and celebrating industry practices, competitions include, a leak-repair contest, backflow-repair contest and license specific exams. Distinguished awards are given to Water Treatment Operator of the Year, Wastewater Operator of the Year and Natural Gas Operator of the Year. Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate as next year marks the 20th anniversary of the TAUD Operator Expo, which will occur on May 22, 2014. Till next year, enjoy highlights from this year’s successful event. David Morrison won the 2013 T-Shirt Design contest and was awarded $200 by TAUD Executive Director, Bob Freudenthal.
8
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
3rd Quarter, volume 27
9
Leak Repair Contest Sponsored by G&C Supply Inc.
Gladeville Utility District
LaVergne Utilities
BAE Systems/First U.D. of Hawkins
Centerville Water & Sewer
Winners
With a time of 1:24, Erik Hassell and Chad Dotson of Centerville Water & Sewer won the annual contest.
Tullahoma Utilites Board
City of Lebanon
Cumberland Machine Co. 1305 Fourth Avenue North Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 255-7373 Fax (615) 255-9585
Pump Services Division
Honorable Mention with a time of 1:30 Pulaski Water & Sewer Department
Field Service Repair For Pumps & Pump Stations New Pump Sales Vertical Pump Repair Field Welding Service Field Mechanical Service Gearbox Repair
Machine Shop Division
Full Service Machine Shop Conventional And CNC Machining Large Diameter Turning And Milling Fabrication & Welding Services Onsite Mechanical Services Design And Engineering Services www.cumberlandmachine.com email: cballentine@cumberlandmachine.com
10
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Operator Awards Presented by past TAUD President, Tom Atchley, Hendersonville Utility District
Water Treatment Operator Of the Year
John Wunner, Hendersonville Utility District | John began his career with Hendersonville U.D. in 1996. He’s been very involved with TAUD attending training classes, conferences and region meetings. He conducts public tours of Hendersonville Utility District to better educate the public on the inner workings of utilities. He is currently working with Vol State Community College in a Co-Op Partnership that provides students with opportunities to earn extra credits, learn job skills and have potential job placement within the utility service field. John and his wife Rhonda enjoy traveling and cheering on the Boston Red Sox.
Wastewater Treatment Operator Of the Year
Albert Solberg, Harpeth Valley Utilities District | Albert has served the utility industry for 13 years and has been with Harpeth Valley for 10 years. Albert was the 2012 winner of the Water Environment Association Hatfield Award. Alberts’ nomination describes him as “a great leader from the lab, to the treatment process, to the biosolids program, he is constantly thinking outside of the box to make us a better facility. His contribution to our operation can’t be qualified in dollars.” Albert holds a Grade 4 Wastewater license as well as a Private Applicator Herbicide Certification. Albert and his wife Judy have three children Will, Chris and Al Jr. and one grandson, Jaxen. In his spare time Albert enjoys 4-wheeling, Bible study and working with the youth of his church.
Natural Gas
Operator Of the Year Travis McCormick, City of Parsons | Travis has been with the City of Parsons since 1998 and was promoted to a supervising position in the gas department in 2006. He manages a three-county gas system with approximately 225 miles of pipe serving 3,400 customers. Travis has worked to upgrade all of Parson’s equipment. His manager Lee Villaflor states “we hit a home run when we decided to move Travis into a supervisor position.” Travis and his wife Jessi have two daughters, Shelby and Cheyenne. They are members of Hopewell Baptist Church. In his spare time Travis enjoys hunting and coaching his daughter’s softball team. 3rd Quarter, volume 27
11
gs n i nd ize
a fs p o Ex ge n ra
Barnes Solids Handling Pumps 2-60 hp 3”, 4”, 6” or 8” discharge sizes Plug-n-Play power cord Made in USA
Barnes SH Pumps churn through today’s waste stream • Barnes SH innovative clog-resistant impeller designs handle long, stringy solids and other challenges found in the waste stream. • In rigorous clog testing, Barnes SH clog-resistant pumps outperform popular, competitive designs.
Vortex
Monovane
High-efficiency
Competitor pumps readily clog on today’s “disposable” household items. Barnes SH series pumps deliver reliable, clog-free operation. Crane Pumps & Systems Distributor
www.southernsalesinc.com (800) 843-5523
Calculate your savings, visit www.cranepumps.com/SHCalculator.php.
Call Before You Dig
Kathy Quartermaine | Education Manager Tennessee 811
Every digging project, no matter how large or small, requires a call to 811. Hitting an underground utility line while digging can harm the environment, can cause serious personal injuries, can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood and can potentially incur fines and repair costs. TCA 65-31-101 requires anyone who engages in, or is responsible for, the planning or performance of any type of excavation to provided at least three working days advance notice to 811 so that underground facility owners who may be affected by the excavation can protect their lines. Nationally, every eight minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone decided to dig without first calling 811. One out of every three incidents is caused by someone who did not call 811 before digging and over one fourth of utility damaging incidents involve a backhoe or track hoe. Knowing where underground utility lines are buried before each digging project helps prevent these situations. In Tennessee , forty-three percent (43%) of the damages to underground facilities occur because no notification was made to 811. Forty three percent! Calling or entering your request online is only the first step to safe excavation. You can either call 811 or you can enter your ticket online using e-ticket or remote ticket entry. You can visit our website at www.tennessee811.com to learn more about these options. Be sure to have the closest intersecting street to your dig site and know the approximate distance from that intersection. The second step to safe digging is to wait the required amount of time (3 working days from the start date and time on your ticket, excluding weekends and holidays) for the utility owners to mark the approximate location of their underground facilities. Your ticket will be good for 15 calendar days, so if you don’t finish your work be sure to call in an update – again allowing 3 working days notice. Locating accurately is the third step to safe digging. Having accurate marking instructions and the exact location of your proposed work are important to having the approximate location of the underground facilities located correctly. An excavator is required - by law - to mark the area of proposed construction with white stakes or paint unless your request addresses one of following: the area to be located has an exact street address; the facility owner can determine the precise 3rd Quarter, volume 27
13
location of the proposed excavation from a one-call ticket that references an easily identifiable point on the property including a street address or block and lot number; the area of proposed excavation is located on a road between two designated intersections of the street and two cross streets or roads when a street address and lot number aren’t available; or the person responsible for the excavation or demolition and ALL operators with underground facilities in the proposed area of excavation have had a preconstruction meeting. The fourth step to safe digging is to respect the marks. When working inside the tolerance zone either use vacuum excavation or another accepted practice of the facility owner to find the existing facilities. The tolerance zone is the width of the facility PLUS 24 inches on each side. The fifth and final step to safe digging is to dig carefully. Always take care not to damage an existing facility while you work – it’s the responsibility of the excavator to do this. If you knick, scrape, or dent an existing utility the law requires you to stop your work and notify the utility owner. Plan your work ahead by committing to these five steps to safer digging – 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Call before you dig, Wait the required time Locate accurately Respect the marks and dig carefully Maintain a high standard for damage prevention and safety.
The decisions you make every day affect more than yourself. They affect your coworkers, their families, the surrounding neighborhood, utility companies and your company. In the end, calling 811 before you dig is really a safety measure for you - to keep YOU safe - to keep YOU alive!
14
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Prepare for the Lead Free Act
Steve Roberts | East TN Circuit Rider TAUD
By now, most of you are familiar with the federal regulations targeted to reduce lead in drinking water known as “Lead Free Act” enacted by Congress on January 4, 2011 to amend Section 1417 of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The effective date for the new “lead free” regulations is January 4, 2014. As part of the rule making process, EPA held a public webinar with stakeholders to discuss the potential ramifications that the change in law may have. To clarify information related to this change, the EPA released a draft document of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the reduction of lead in drinking water. The draft document, including the answers to FAQs, expresses EPA’s interpretation of statutory requirements and is intended to assist states with implementation of the rule. This article provides an overview of FAQs. The draft document includes a definition of “lead free” when used for solder and flux, as well as a definition and a method of calculating the weighted average of lead content in pipes, pipe fitting, and fixtures. It also includes a list of exemptions, which include backflow preventers installation where water is not used for public consumption, service saddles, and main gate valves that are 2 inches in diameter or larger. The majority of the questions focus on the manufacturing, selling, and installation of materials which must meet the new definition of “lead free.” The following example questions are often asked by water system personnel regarding installation, repair, and reuse of components in compliance with being “lead free.” Example Question 1. “I manage a public water system. When a water meter needs repair, we typically remove the meter from service, repair it off site, and place the same meter back into service after it’s
3rd Quarter, volume 27
15
been repaired. Does this meter now need to meet the new definition of lead free?” Answer. No, but certain parts used in the repair may need to meet the definition. The removal from service of the fixture for repair and replacement, by itself, does not trigger the requirements of Section 1417(a). Any part used in the repair of the meter that is a pipe, pipe fitting, plumbing fitting or fixture must meet the new definition of lead free, but the meter being repaired is not independently subject to the requirements in 1417(a) because it is not being used or installed for the first time in that location. The original purpose of Section 1417 of SDWA was to eliminate the future use of lead in water supply distribution systems. (H.R. Rep. 99-575 at 38). This is reflected in the legislative history of the recent amendments -- “This bill doesn’t require people to buy replacements. No one is forced to replace their faucets.” [156 Cong. Rec. H8617-01 (Dec. 17, 2010)].” Example Question 2. “I operate a seasonal water system that temporarily removes fittings/fixtures, such as water meters, at the end of the season and then the next year returns the same fittings/fixtures to the same location without replacing or repairing the fittings/fixtures or components of the fittings/fixtures. Must these fittings/fixtures meet the new definition of lead free after January 4, 2014?” Answer. “No. Because the seasonal water system is simply returning a fitting/ fixture to the same location, and there has been no installation or repair, the fitting/fixture in question would not be required to meet the new definition of lead free.” The complete draft document can be viewed online at http://water.epa.gov/drink/ info/lead/index.cfm#lfree. We will continue to keep you informed of any changes throughout the rule making process. New information and/or updates will be posted on our website.
16
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Power your
uTILITy BILLING wITh oNe Source Only QS/1 gives you the entire sphere of utility finances – billing software plus a full accounting suite, Internet/IVR payments, bill printing services, hardware, software and IT services. Additionally, we can eliminate the need for on-site servers and software, on-going maintenance and disaster recovery concerns – all the headaches that come from working with multiple service providers. It’s nextgeneration utility billing infrastructure with a refreshing affordability that’s budget and board approved. Learn more about QS/1 Governmental Solutions at qs1gov.com or call 800.231.7776. 1.800.231.7776 qs1gov.com
17
3rd Quarter, volume 27 © 2013, J M SMITH CORPORATION. QS/1 is a registered trademark of the J M Smith Corporation.
REGION MEETING NEWS
Region meetings are held quarterly throughout the year. These meetings provide a unique opportunity to network with people in the utility industry. Speakers discuss topics that are current, informative and beneficial to utilities and related industries. Some recent topics include: updates on training, industry rules, reporting and regulation, insurance provisions, workplace safety, and what’s upcoming in new and innovative smart technology. TAUD encourages you to be ‘in-the-know’ and get involved in your region. Region 1 Meeting Fred Hicks, Region Leader April 18, 2013 Meeting Location: Comfort Inn in Greeneville Attendance: 70 Systems in the Water Contest: Brownlow Utility District, Kingsport Water System, Greeneville Water Commission, Lakeview Utility District, First Utility District of Hawkins County, Erwin Utilities, Cold Springs Utility District and Bristol Water System Contest Winner: Erwin Utilities Contest Judges: David Lane of the Greeneville Astros, Lana Moore of Senator Alexander’s office, Bill Forrester of 1st TN Development District, Bill Snodgrass of Congressman Roe’s office and Louis Trivette of USDA RD Speakers/Presenters: Steve Chappell of CSA, Walter A. Wood, the Johnson City EFO; Louis Trivette of USDA RD, Bill Forrester of ETDD and Dan Martin and Steve Roberts of TAUD. Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Wascon, W&W Engineering, LLC and Trilec Products and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, W&W Engineering, Rye Engineering, Aulick, George Paris and Microbac Next Meeting: July 18, 2013 Regions 2 and 3 Meeting Bruce Giles and Jimmy Langley, Region Leaders June 13, 2013 Meeting Location: 1st UD of Knox County Wastewater Treatment Plant Attendance: 76
18
Roberts and Larry Lewis of TAUD.
Speakers/Presenters: Mike Stull and Matt Finney of Caldwell Tanks, Duke Julian of United Utilities, Greg Simcox of the Knoxville EFO, Steve Chappell of CSA and Bob Freudenthal, Dan Martin, Steve
Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Caldwell Tanks and United Utilities and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, Scientific Sales, Caldwell Tanks, Rye Engineering, Southern Sales, Microbac, Fulghum MacIndoe, Aulick and CTI Next Meeting: September 4, 2013 Region 3 Jimmy Langley, Region Leader June 13, 2013 See Region 2, previous meeting was a combined meeting. Next Meeting: September 12, 2013 Regions 4 and 10 Meeting Tim Lawson and Penny Sutherland, Region Leaders May 22, 2013 Meeting Location: Springbrook Country Club Attendance: 52 Speakers/Presenters: Dustin Dowdy of Southeastern Tank, Brian Branch of Process Solutions, Josh Cravins of Wascon, TDEC Field Office, USDA RD, Steve Chappell of CSA and Bob Freudenthal, Dan Martin and Steve Roberts of TAUD. TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Southeastern Tank, Process Solutions and Wascon and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, National Water Services, Rye Engineering, Southeastern Tank, J.R. Wauford, Microbac, CTI Engineers, Walter A. Wood, Southern Sales and Scientific Sales Next Meeting: August 21, 2013
Region 5 Meeting Tom Faulk, Region Leader May 2, 2013
Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were HD Supply and Kazmier and Associates and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, H2O Technologies, Hayes Pipe, Bio-Chem, Trilec and Rye Engineering Next Meeting: Joint meeting with Region 9 on August 1, 2013
Region 6 Meeting Kenneth Carr, Region Leader April 24, 2013
Meeting Location: West Wilson UD Office Attendance: 42 Systems in the Water Contest: West Wilson Utility District, Hendersonville Utility District, Portland Utility System and Gladeville Utility District Pictured left to right: Mark Hensley, Jason Chalfont, John Wunner and Tom Atchley of HUD, Andy Garrett, Kirk Smith
Contest Winner: Hendersonville Utility District Contest Judges: Kirk Smith of CI Thornburg, Andy Garrett, Public Safety Director of Mt. Juliet and Mark Hensley, President of the Wilson County Chamber of Commerce Speakers/Presenters: Brandy Phillips of Kazmier and Associates, Frank Lammers of Mueller, Holly Austin of TN811, the Nashville EFO, Donna Duncan of USDA RD, Kirk Smith of CI Thornburg and Bob Freudenthal, Greg Baker, John Hall and Larry Lewis of TAUD. 3rd Quarter, volume 27
Pictured left to right: Brian Love (SPWW), Mayor Joe Liggett, Karen Stevenson, Doug Shelton, Jeremy Vanderford (SPWW), Garth McCrary (SPWW), Mayor Peggy Bevels, TC Norman and Tyler Scroggins (SPWW) and Joe Young
Meeting Location: American Development Corp. Attendance: 65 Systems in the Water Contest: Lincoln County Board of Public Utilities, Fayetteville Public Utilities, Spring Hill Water Works, Lewisburg Water & Wastewater, Bedford County Utility District, Consolidated Utility District and Duck River Utility Commission Contest Winner: Spring Hill Water Works (SPWW) Contest Judges: Joe Young of Radio Station WYTM in Fayetteville, Marshall County Mayor Joe Liggett, Lincoln County Mayor Peggy Bevels, Karen Stevenson of TDEC and Doug Shelton of RD Speakers/Presenters: Steve Chappell of CSA, Dustin 19
Dowdy of Southeastern Tank, Steve Lowe and Youral Winegeart of Garney Construction, Holly Austin of TN811, David Money of the Columbia EFO; Doug Shelton of USDA RD and Bob Freudenthal, Dewayne Culpepper and John Hall of TAUD. Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Southeastern Tank and Garney Construction and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, Rye Engineering,Hayes Pipe, Heartland Pump and Garney Construction Next Meeting: To Be Announced, check website at taud.org or watch for email announcement. Region 7 Meeting Annie Chiodo, Region Leader April 4, 2013 Meeting Location: Tin Roof Restaurant in Waynesboro Attendance: 35 Systems in the Water Contest: Linden Utilities, Waynesboro Utilities, First Utility District of Hardin County, Lawrenceburg Utility Systems, Parsons Utility System and Mt. Pleasant Water/WW/Gas Contest Winner: Mt. Pleasant Water/WW/Gas
Water, Sharon Water Works, County Wide Utility District of Crockett County, Rutherford Water Department, Dyer Public Works and Kenton Utilities Contest Winner: Kenton Utilities Contest Judges: Trenton Mayor Tony Burriss, Brenda Horner of USDA RD, Danny Jones of the Trenton Gazette and Kirk Smith of CI Thornburg Speakers/Presenters: Seth Rye and Mike Sheppard of Rye Engineering, Michael McLaughin of BAR Environmental, Brenda Horner of USDA RD and Bob Freudenthal, Dewayne Culpepper, Greg Baker and Tony Wyatt of TAUD. Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Rye Engineering and BAR Environmental and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC and Rye Engineering Next Meeting: Joint meeting with Region 11 on August 14, 2013 Region 9 Scott Miller, Region Leader June 20, 2013 Meeting Location: Greystone Golf Club in Dickson
Contest Judges: Kenneth Carr of Lewisburg Utilities, Doug Shelton of USDA RD and Steve Jones with Garver
Attendance: 32
Speakers/Presenters: Steve Jones and Andrew Lynn of Garver, Doug Shelton of USDA RD and Bob Freudenthal, Dewayne Culpepper, Greg Baker, Tony Wyatt and Larry Lewis of TAUD.
Speakers/Presenters: Dustin Dowdy of Southeastern Tank, Kelly Colvett of CH2M, Michael Murphy of the Nashville EFO, Lola Maratita of USDA RD and Dewayne Culpepper and Tony Wyatt of TAUD.
Thank You: Our meeting sponsor was Garver and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, Rye Engineers and Garver
Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were Southeastern Tank and CH2M and also thank you to our door prize contributors: ADC, Mueller, Southern Sales, Rye Engineering and Visionary Document Solutions
Next Meeting: To Be Announced, check website at taud.org or watch for email announcement. Region 8 Meeting JD Dethloff, Region Leader April 10, 2013 Meeting Location: Gibson County EMS Office Attendance: 52 Systems in the Water Contest: Northwest Dyersburg Utility District, South Fulton Water & Sewer, Tiptonville Water & Sewer, Humboldt Utilities, Newbern Water & Sewer, Atwood Water System, Martin Utilities, Trenton Light & 20
Next Meeting: Joint meeting and training with Region 5, date to be announced, see taud.org.
Region 10 Tim Lawson, Region Leader May 22, 2013 See Region 4, previous meeting was a combined meeting. Next Meeting: August 28, 2013
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Region 11 Chandrika Winston, Region Leader May 8, 2013 Meeting Location: Jackson Energy Authority
Every drop along the way...
Attendance: 51
Clean. Safe. Sustainable.
Utility Service Co., Inc. has proudly served the potable and industrial water industries for over 50 years. Today’s Utility Service Group provides comprehensive condition assessments, rehabilitation services and sustainable asset management solutions throughout the whole water cycle. •••• •• •• • •••••
Systems in the Water Contest: Collierville Public Utility, Jackson Energy Authority, First Utility District of Tipton County, Germantown Water System, MemPictured left to right: Seth Rye, Representative Jimmy Eldridge, Michael DeArmond of Poplar Grove phis Light Gas Water Utility District, Cindi Turner and Steve Beverly. Division, Poplar Grove Utility District, Munford Utilities, Adamsville Utilities & Michie Water System
Call us to discover how our sustainable and unique solutions can assist you in improving the management of your water system.
Contest Winner: Poplar Grove Utility District Contest Judges: Seth Rye of Rye Engineering, State Representative Jimmy Eldridge, Steve Beverly of Union University and Cidi Turner of WBBJ-TV Speakers/Presenters: Kirk Smith of CI Thornburg, Representative Jimmy Eldridge, Mike Wetherington of ADC, Darryl Green representing the Operator Certification Board, Scott Holder of TN811, Brian Caton of the Jackson EFO; Becky Burgess of USDA RD and Tony Wyatt and Larry Lewis of TAUD.
Western TN.
Brad Manning 662.507.0659
utilityservice.com
bmanning@utilityservice.com
lsmallwood@utilityservice.com
SCADA
Thank You: Our meeting sponsors were ADC and Wascon and also thank to our door prize contributors: ADC and Rye Engineering
Utility Grade (800) 239-4890
Next Meeting: A joint meeting with Region 8 on August 14, 2013
For more information on becoming involved in region meetings, please contact Larry Lewis, (731) 234-0380 or at larrylewis@taud.org.
Eastern TN.
Lee Smallwood 864.415.2388
System Design Manufacture Complete Install Start-up Onsite Tech Service
http://www.dfa-inc.com
Quality Made in the USA
Dexter Fortson Associates, Inc. Factory Location: Plant 5511 Powder Plant Ln, Birmingham, AL 35022 5511 Powder Lane Birmingham, AL 35022 Gene Knott
3rd Quarter, volume 27
gknott@dfa-inc.com
(205) 706-3548
21
22
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS
The Hazard Communication Standard & the Globally Harmonized System
Chuck Page | Safety/Compliance Manager American Development Corporation
They’re the same...but different
Toxic
The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) or “Right to Know law” was established in 1983 by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Simply put, the standard was enacted to inform American workers about the hazardous chemicals in their workplace, identify health and safety hazards and list the appropriate protective measures associated with each chemical. There are three key components to the Hazard Communication Standard: container labeling, material safety data sheets (MSDS) and employee training. These components are equally important and serve distinct functions. Container labeling: A label is the most immediate source of information. Labels are intended to be a snapshot to remind the worker that the materials are hazardous and that more detailed information is also available on the MSDSs as well as in any training they receive. Material Safety Data Sheets: MSDSs are reference documents. They are essentially a one-stop shopping source for everything you might need or want to know about a chemical. Employee training: Training employees is critical to ensure that they understand the hazards associated with the chemicals they use, where they can get more information, and how they can use the information to protect themselves. The Need for Change The Hazard Communication Standard has only had a few revisions in the 30 years since it was established by OSHA. While the original model is still sound, the standard needed to be changed to address concerns regarding the lack of a standardized label and MSDS format as well as to address the ever expanding global economy. The Globally Harmonized System In 2003, the United Nations (UN) adopted the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. The GHS includes criteria for the classification of health, physical and environmental hazards, as well as specifying what information should be included on labels of hazardous chemicals and safety data sheets. The United States was an active
3rd Quarter, volume 27
23
participant in the development of the GHS, and is a member of the UN board established to maintain and coordinate implementation of the system. On September 30, 2009 OSHA published a proposed rulemaking to align OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) with the GHS. What is the Globally Harmonized System? For workers and companies in the U.S., GHS is an update to the HCS. The GHS is a system for standardizing and harmonizing the classification and labeling of chemicals. It is designed to replace the various classification and labeling standards used in different countries by using consistent criteria for classification and labeling on a global level. What’s the difference between the Hazard Communication Standard and the Globally Harmonized System? The revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is a modification to the existing standard. The parts of the standard that did not relate to the GHS (such as the basic framework, scope, and exemptions) remain largely unchanged. There have been some modifications to terminology in order to align the revised HCS with language used in the GHS. For example, the term “hazard determination” has been changed to “hazard classification” and “material safety data sheet” (MSDS) was changed to “safety data sheet” (SDS). Three major areas of change are in hazard classification, labels, and safety data sheets. Hazard classification: The definitions of hazard have been changed to provide specific criteria for classification of health and physical hazards, as well as classification of mixtures. These specific criteria will help to ensure that evaluations of hazardous effects are consistent across manufacturers, and that labels and safety data sheets are more accurate as a result. Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. Precautionary statements must also be provided. Safety Data Sheets: The information on the SDS must be presented using specific headings in a specified sequence. OSHA has established the following timeline for compliance with GHS. IMPORTANT DATES December 1, 2013: All employees must be trained regarding the new label elements and SDS format. June 1, 2015: Comply with all modified provisions of the final rule, with one exception: distributors may ship products labeled by manufacturers under the old system until December 1, 2015. 24
June 1, 2016: Update alternative workplace labeling and hazard communication program as necessary, and provide additional employee training for newly identified physical or health hazards. Employee Training As with any safety program, employee training is critical to its success. Educating employees on the updated chemical and product classifications, pictograms, signal words, hazard statements and precautionary measures will represent the greatest training challenge. Training will be a key component of the overall GHS approach and should incorporate information as it is introduced into the workplace. Don’t forget your local emergency responders. They will need to be trained on all of the new program elements, from hazard statements to pictograms. Additional Guidance The Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s website has more detailed information regarding the change to the GHS, including useful tools to assist you in the transition. This information can be found at www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html.
Field’s Engineering Consultant Services, LLC 77 Cother Street, Crossville, TN 38555 (931) 456-6071
www.fieldengineering.net Barry R. Field, P.E.
• • • • • •
25+ Years Experience Water Distribution/Treatment Systems Wastewater Collection/Treatment Facilities Groundwater Monitoring Facilities Subdivision Development Building Design EPA Phase I and II Audits INTRODUCING TO TN & KY:
Liberty Pumps is a leading U.S. manufacturer of pumping products for ground water and wastewater removal in residential and commercial applications. With a focus on innovative product design, our wide range of pump styles includes; sump pumps, sewage pumps, effluent pumps, drain pumps, grinder pumps, complete preassembled sewage packages and pump accessories. Check out our website for a demo of Liberty Omnivore Grinder Pumps
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
3rd Quarter, volume 27
25
CUSTOM WATER TREATMENT PROGRAMS DESIGNED BY PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1990 WATER QUALITY COMPLIANCE ENSURED FOR:
POTABLE NSF Certified Products Distribution System Compliance
Microbiological Testing Operator Training
Surface Water Influent Chemistry Enhanced Disinfection
DBP Control with Chlorine Dioxide Corrosion Control
BOILER AND COOLING WATER Langelier and Ryzner Index Calculations Corrosion Coupon Studies
Energy and Water Saving Recommendations Inspections of Towers
Fouling Determinations
STORMWATER Technical Support Testing Polymers
Microbiological Control Epa Approved Products
INDUSTRIAL & MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER Sludge Dewatering Suspended Solids/Bod Control Operator Training
Dechlorination Service Algae Control
Phone: 225-654-4955 - 800-762-9104 • Fax: 225-654-9533 PO Box 181 Zachary, LA 70791-0181 Contacts: David Thornton (david@tmbwater.com) | Randy Bush (randy@tmbwater.com) | CB Brown (cbbrown@tmbwater.com) Hub Brown (hubbrown@tmbwater.com) | Cody Ryder (cody@tmbwater.com) | Danny Foreman (dforeman@tmbwater.com)
www.tmbwater.com
Are You Adequately Trained in Safety?
Brent Ogles | Education Manager TAUD
Safety training often takes a backseat to other issues that occur in the day to day operations of a system. Repairs, personnel and administrative issues typically take priority and safety training is one of those items that wait until other issues are resolved. However, when that lack of training contributes to an accident or a violation, it’s too late. Before an incident occurs, questions should be asked that address the frequency of training, quality of training, which employees are trained in what areas, and if an employee was fully educated and informed in the duties he or she was assigned. The answers to these questions will determine the liability of the system in whatever action will follow. For the protection of water or wastewater systems and their employees, safety training must be a priority. So, let’s look at water and wastewater safety training in three activity categories: 1. 2. 3.
Activities requiring a Competent Person Activities requiring a Certified or Qualified Person Activities requiring training only
Activities requiring a Competent Person Some employee activities so greatly impact the lives of all persons involved that they require a “Competent Person” to oversee the activities. The competent person has received training familiarizing him or her with the related hazards of the activity, proper procedure, and how to react in emergency circumstances. They have the authority to halt the activity if conditions become unfavorable. Typical activities in the water and wastewater industry requiring a “competent person” are: Confined Space is defined by OSHA as an area that meets all three of the following: 1. Is large enough and so configured that an employee’s body can enter and perform assigned work; 2. Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit; and 3. Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.
A permit-required confined space is a confined space that contains a hazard. Many confined spaces are below ground level and have steps or ladder entry for access to perform routine maintenance, inspection, testing, sampling and repairs. The level of fall protection necessary depends on the facility, its required activities, and the job tasks being performed. Full body harnesses, ladder safety systems, tripods and hoists are among the more important fall protection products. Confined space accidents are of particular concern because often multiple
3rd Quarter, volume 27
27
casualties occur when untrained responders succumb to the same hazard as the initial victim. Confined space training outlines the skills and protocols for safe entry to confined spaces and includes such precautions as lockout and tag-out, testing of air quality, forced ventilation, observation of workers in the space, and a predetermined rescue plan with appropriate safety harness and other rescue equipment. • • • • • • • • •
Trenching and Excavation is highly technical as well as inherently hazardous, and therefore requires a greater level of training and experience than a normal worker would possess. The items below specify the trenching and excavation activities where a competent person is necessary. Monitoring water removal equipment and operations. Inspecting excavations subject to runoff from heavy rains to determine need for diversion ditches, dikes, or other suitable protection. Determining cave-in potential to assess the need for shoring or other protective systems. Examining damaged material or equipment used for protective systems to determine its suitability for continued use. Classifying soil and rock deposits, by both visual analysis and testing, to determine appropriate protection and re-classifying, if necessary, based on changing conditions. Determining the appropriate slope of an excavation to prevent collapse due to surcharge loads from stored material or equipment, operating equipment, adjacent structures, or traffic, and assuring that such slope is achieved. Authorizing immediate removal of employees from the hazardous area where evidence of possible cave-in, failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions exists. Designing a means of employee access or egress.
Activities requiring a Certified or Qualified Person Some employee activities require such a level of experience and problem solving ability that a “Certified or Qualified Person” at the worksite is necessary. A qualified person must have a recognized degree/certificate or extensive experience and the ability to solve problems. Typical activities in the water and wastewater industry requiring a “certified” or “qualified” person are:
• •
• •
28
Crane Operator beginning November 10, 2014, ALL crane and derrick operators (except those rated at 2,000 pounds or less) must be certified or qualified by one of the four following specified options. 1. Certification by an accredited crane operator testing organization; 2. Qualification by an audited employer program; 3. Qualification by the U.S. military; or 4. Licensing by a state or local government entity. Rigger is currently required to be qualified. A qualified rigger must be able to properly rig the load for a particular job. He or she need not be qualified to do every type of rigging job. Each load that requires rigging has unique properties that can range from the simple to the complex. However, previous experience does not automatically qualify the rigger to rig unstable, unusually heavy, or eccentric loads that may require a tandem lift, multiple lifts, or use of custom rigging equipment. In essence, employers must make sure that the person can do the rigging work needed for the exact types of loads and lifts for a particular job with the equipment and rigging that will be used for that job. Signaler is currently required to be qualified. Training focuses on the roles and responsibilities that signal persons have, performing proper hand signals for both mobile cranes and tower crane operations, and understanding voice commands as outlined in the new OSHA standard, rigging concepts and equipment. Flagger Certification is a requirement by TN Department of Transportation for work on State Highways. Flaggers are responsible for public safety and make the greatest number of contacts with the public of all highway workers. They should be trained in safe traffic control practices and public contact techniques. Flaggers should be able to satisfactorily demonstrate the following abilities: 1. 2.
Receive and communicate specific instructions clearly, firmly, and courteously; Move and maneuver quickly in order to avoid danger from errant vehicles;
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
3. 4. 5.
Control signaling devices (such as paddles and flags) in order to provide clear and positive guidance to drivers approaching the traffic control zone in frequently changing situations; Understand and apply safe traffic control practices, sometimes in stressful or emergency situations; and Recognize dangerous traffic situations and warn workers in sufficient time to avoid injury.
Certifications acquired through this training now expire after four years from the time they are initially issued. Activities requiring training only All employees must be provided a place of employment which is free from recognized hazards that cause or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm. This requirement is placed on the employer by the OSHA General Duty Clause. In order to make a work place safe, all employees must be trained for the equipment they operate and hazards they may encounter. Typical areas in the water and wastewater industry requiring training are: •
•
•
•
•
•
•
Lockout/Tag-out procedures ensure that hazardous power sources are isolated and inoperative before any maintenance or repair procedure is started. Any employee working with hazardous power sources should be trained in LOTO. Blood-borne Pathogen training is primarily for wastewater treatment plant and collection system employees. It provides information on those pathogens spread through blood contact such as HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and viral hemorrhagic fevers as well as how to protect against and avoid infection. Forklift Safety training is an example of specific handson training intended to familiarize the participant with the equipment he or she will be operating and to educate them on potential hazards with operation. Chlorine Safety training provides those employees of water treatment plants and some wastewater collection systems that use gaseous chlorine with information for proper use, potential hazards, and emergency procedures. Electrical Safety, Fall Prevention, Ladder Safety, Power & Hand Tool Safety are part of a TOSHA Basic Safety Class and the OSHA 10-Hour Safety Class designed to ensure that the treatment plant and other system workers are aware of the hazards in their surroundings and can respond appropriately in an emergency. Hazard Communications/Right-To-Know training involves chemical identification, use, storage, hazards, and emergency procedures. It provides information on Material Safety Data Sheets and introduces the replacement program, the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), which will begin implementation December 1, 2013. Emergency Operations provides information and
Safety Training Offered by TAUD Training Station All of the classes identified in this article are available in the TAUD Training Station schedule or can be made available for a special offering if 12 or more students can be guaranteed. TAUD makes it a priority to offer quality safety training and has partnered with the University of Tennessee, Center for Industrial Services (UT-CIS), to conduct most of the these safety classes. UT-CIS is a partner with the OSHA Training Institute, and has assembled a staff of instructors that have actual work experience in the topics they teach.
JULY 8/31 TOSHA Safety Training in Jackson AUGUST 8/2 Lockout/Tag Out in Jackson 8/19 Trench Excavation Competent Person in Jackson 8/20 Confined Space in Knoxville 8/21 Flagger Certification in Jackson 8/23 CPR/AED/Basic First Aid in Jackson 8/26 Hazard Communication/ TN Right-to-Know in Gray SEPTEMBER 9/4 Confined Space in Johnson City 9/5 Trench Excavation Competent Person in Gray 9/9 TOSHA Safety Training in Murfreesboro For more class information visit taud.org
3rd Quarter, volume 27
29
• •
•
guidance to those persons responsible for preparing their system for natural or manmade disasters. National Incident Management System (NIMS) 700 and IS 100 certifications are offered by TAUD’s training station classes. 24-Hour HazMat Class informs participants how to recognize hazards, how to monitor and maintain safe work practices, as well as participate in full dress-out using personal protective equipment. CPR/AED/Basic First Aid workshop uses National Safety Council materials and covers most current CPR techniques, defibrillator use, bleeding and wound care, shock, serious injuries, burns, heat and cold emergencies, and rescuing and moving victims. To remain current on the information offered by the classes above, the class should be re-attended or renewed at specified intervals. If you will visit the following links, they will provide tables showing the recommended retraining frequency for General Industry and Construction Standards.
The following websites are great resources regarding state policy, TOSHA and safety training: http://www.state.tn.us/labor-wfd/tosha/GIStandTrainReq.pdf http://www.state.tn.us/labor-wfd/tosha/ConStandTrainReq.pdf
30
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Natural Gas Safety Standards Donald L. Scholes | Attorney Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings
Potential Liabilities for Violations
With the passage of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 and amendments to this act, 49 U.S.C. §§ 60101-60140 (the Act), the federal government entered the field of establishing minimum safety standards for natural gas pipeline facilities and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities. The purpose of the Act “is to provide adequate protection against risks to life and property posed by pipeline facilities by improving the regulatory and enforcement authority of the Secretary.” Pursuant to the Act, the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) has adopted regulations setting and enforcing standards for the design, construction, operation, maintenance or abandonment of natural gas pipeline facilities; establishing alcohol and drug testing program requirements for natural gas operator employees; and providing for the enforcement of these regulations. These regulations are found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations Parts 190, 192, and 199. A state may be certified to assume the responsibility for the regulatory, inspection, and enforcement responsibilities for intrastate gas pipelines. PHMSA may reimburse a certified state up to 80% of its actual cost for carrying out its pipeline safety program. When a state is certified by PHMSA to carry out regulatory duties for intrastate pipelines, PHMSA continues to have regulatory responsibility for interstate pipelines within the state. In Tennessee, the Tennessee Regulatory Authority (TRA) has been operating a certified state program for many years. Civil & Criminal Penalties The Act and regulations adopted by PHMSA under the Act have established civil penalties and criminal penalties for violations of the Act and violations of regulations and orders issued under the Act. The TRA has been given power to issue civil penalties for violations of the federal natural gas safety standards it has adopted for Tennessee’s intrastate pipelines.
continues next page...
31
The maximum civil penalties which can be assessed by the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Standards Administration (PHMSA) for violations are:
• Up to $200,000 for each violation each day the violation continues; and • Up to a maximum of $2,000,000 for any related series of violations.
The maximum civil penalties which can be assessed by the Tennessee Regulatory Authority are:
• Up to $100,000 for each violation each day the violation continues; and • Up to a maximum of $500,000 for any related series of violations.
In assessing the amount for a civil penalty, PHMSA is to consider: (1) the nature, circumstances and gravity of the violation, including adverse impact on the environment; (2) the degree of the operator’s culpability; (3) the operator’s history of prior offenses; (4) the operator’s ability to pay; (5) any good faith by the operator in attempting to achieve compliance; and (6) the effect on the operator’s ability to continue in business. PHMSA may consider the economic benefit gained from a violation, if readily ascertainable, without any reduction because of subsequent damages. In assessing the amount for a civil penalty, the Tennessee Regulatory Authority is to consider: (1) the appropriateness in relation to the size of the business of the person charged; (2) the gravity of the violation; (3) the good faith of the person charged in attempting to achieve compliance; (4) history of prior violations; and (5) other matters as justice may require. The criminal penalties under the Act for a willful and knowing violation of the Act or any regulation or order issued under the Act is a fine of not more than $25,000 for each offense and up to five years of imprisonment. Personal Injury and Property Damage Claims In addition to the assessment of civil penalties, the violation of a natural gas safety standard may be important in personal injury and property damage claims made against a gas operator. In Town of Montezuma v. Downs, 685 N.E.2d 108 (Ind. Ct. App. 1997), a natural gas explosion at the Downs’ home killed one family member and injured three others. The Downs established that the Montezuma Municipal Gas Utility violated valve maintenance regulation in 49 C.F.R. Part 192. The Indiana Court of Appeals agreed with the lower court that the violation of natural gas safety standard was “negligence per se” and that the gas operator was liable for the personal injuries and death proximately caused by this violation.
32
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Ordinarily, a jury determines whether a defendant was negligent in a personal injury action or property damage claim. If a court finds that a defendant’s conduct violates a statute or safety regulation is negligence per se, then the defendant’s negligence is conclusively established. The injured party is not required to offer further evidence of the defendant’s negligence; therefore, an injured party’s burden of proof on the negligence of a gas operator is easier to prove. When an injured party makes a claim for personal injuries for personal injuries or property damages which are caused by conduct which violates natural gas safety standards, such a violation may become very important in the injured party’s ability to prove their case, and the gas operator’s ability to defend against a claim. PHMSA Authority to Require Use of One-Call Systems In 2006 Congress passed The Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and Safety Act of 2006 (the PIPES Act). PHMSA was given authority to conduct administrative enforcement proceedings against excavators in a state where PHMSA has determined that a state has failed “to adequately enforce its excavation damage prevention laws.” PHMSA has issued a proposed rulemaking which will establish the criteria which it will use to make this determination. For the first time Congress has given PHMSA limited authority to require any excavator to use a one-call notification system and to take civil enforcement actions against an excavator who disregards the location information and markings of a gas pipeline operator. PHMSA may exercise this authority only when it has determined that a state is not adequately enforcing its excavation damage prevention laws. If PHMSA is able to exercise this authority in a state, excavators in that state are subject to the same civil penalties as gas operators are for violations federal natural gas safety standards which maximum amounts are $200,000 for each violation for each day of a violation and $2,000,000 for a related series of violations. As excavators, all utilities in Tennessee will be affected by The PIPES Act should PHMSA decide Tennessee does not have an adequate enforcement program in place to enforce the its underground utility damage prevention statutes. In 2013, the Tennessee General Assembly enacted a bill which created the Underground Utility Damage Prevention Advisory Committee. This committee is charged with making a recommendation on legislation which will assist Tennessee in working towards meeting the criteria PHMSA has indicated it will examine to decide whether Tennessee is adequately enforcing its underground utility damage prevention statutes. The progress Tennessee makes or does not make to adequately enforce its underground utility damage prevention statutes could open up all utilities in Tennessee to new liabilities should PHMSA be able to enforce federal utility underground damage prevention statutes in Tennessee.
3rd Quarter, volume 27
33
YOUR PARTNER OF CHOICE IN MUNICIPAL BONDS Community support takes many forms. Ours just happens to be providing innovative solutions to complex public financing needs. Our solutions help fund progress and make your communities even better places to live. When counties, cities, utility systems and other municipalities need capital for critical services or vital infrastructure, our team of veteran public finance bankers is ready and able to help. We are as committed to helping build strong and vibrant communities as we are to building a strong, vibrant firm. Don’t just take our word for it. Find strength in our numbers.
2,700 +
Offices throughout the United States, Canada and overseas*
1,200 +
Employees in the state of Tennessee
517
Issues underwritten in Tennessee in the last 10 years worth a total par amount of $10.7 billion
200 +
Experienced institutional salespeople servicing more than 2,400 institutional accounts
105
Offices and locations throughout Tennessee
20 + Top 5
North American and international investment banking and institutional sales offices “Most Admired” securities companies by Fortune magazine**
Proud to be a New Platinum Superbooster of the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts
TED FELLMAN Senior Vice President 615.665.6919 ted.fellman@raymondjames.com
STEVEN MCCOY Senior Vice President 615.665.6921 steven.mccoy@raymondjames.com
RAYMONDJAMES.COM/PUBLICFINANCE
*Includes affiliates. **Based on the following nine criteria: innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, long-term investment, quality of products/services, and global competitiveness. ©2013 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 7/13 TENNESSEE UTILITY13-PF-0065 NEWS |CW www.taud.org
34
SERVES 17K WITH CROSS CONNECTION PROGRAM WHAT UTILITIES ARE SAYING...
? ??
Brent Ogles | Program Manager TUA
In February 2012, the Tennessee Utility Assistance (TUA) Cross Connection Control Management Program began offering its services to water systems across TN. TUA is currently contracted with three water systems, all in different field office areas, with a total customer base of nearly 17,000 connections and 700 backflow preventers. Cross Connection services performed by the Program cover a variety of duties including: • • • • • •
Testing of all backflow preventers using electronic, field and data entry Electronic tracking of all backflow preventers Annual written surveys of 20% of customer base Onsite inspections of 5% of customer base Written correspondence in all related areas and Public education
Listen to what our customers have to say: “In our past sanitary survey from November of 2012, we received our first score of 100. I believe the Cross Connection Control Program was instrumental in achieving this great review. As a general manager of a small utility you have to wear many different hats. This program has been wonderful in the aspect of knowing that at least one thing has been taken care of efficiently.” Patsy Johnson, General Manager, Old Gainesboro Road Utility District “We would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at TUA for a successful Cross Connection program for 2012 and 2013. The recent Sanitary Survey reported a great success in the new program partnered with TUA. The partnership has been proven as a quality program for customer relations and resulted in cost savings not only to the utilities, but to the customers as well. In previous years, the program was administered by several LCUB employees that were assigned to various other duties of the utilities. These tasks were many times a struggle to keep overtime to a minimum and proficient files a high priority with multiple testing vendors being allowed to report findings of cross connections test. With the partnership, it relieves those duties of our employees and allows them to focus on various fields to assist to keep operational cost to a 3rd Quarter, volume 27
minimum for our customers. The program TUA offers is a new vision and operation that keeps the database and its annual test a priority structure that accommodates everything from the initial notification of a site visit at a customer residence to a follow up notification of the test results of a device. The notifications and performance of annual test for the customers eliminates the need for the customer to track the needed time of test, trying to find an approved tester, finding out the results of the device test, and making sure the data is forwarded to the necessary party following the test. In previous years, these issues were found to be troublesome for the utility to administer. Many times these customer issues can be time consuming and the new program proves the quality customer service that TUA offers our utility customers.
The response from our customers has been positive with the recent changes and we commend your staff for treating our customers as if they were your neighbors. The many hours of personal involvement of your staff has made this program what it is today. The tabletop discussions and the onsite visits substantiate that TUA has strived to provide a quality program to the utility, State of Tennessee, and to the LCUB customer. The personal touch that Brent and Tonia bring to the program are the very reasons why the program has been a great success and will continue to be a great partnership in the future.” Leon Shields, Supervisor of Field Operations, Lenoir City Utilities Board Thinking of modifying or updating your cross connection program? Before making major changes, give us a call at 615-900-1011 to discover the savings in time, money and effort that are available. Quotes are free and we are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the Program. For a complete listing of services provided by TUA, please visit www.tuanow.com.
35
Meet TAUD’s New President & Board Member
Representing on TAUD’s distinguished Board of Directors are leaders from the state’s water, wastewater and natural gas utilities. These individuals are members of TAUD and are active in paving the way for the future of the industry. The Board’s leadership helps guide TAUD in its effort to promote and advance utility operations in the state of Tennessee. Thank you to the board for your commitment to the members of TAUD and for your dedication to provide safe drinking water for all Tennesseans.
TAUD’s New Officers are: Freddie Weston | President West Wilson Utility District David Callahan | Vice-President Soddy Daisy Utility District Pat Riley | Secretary Gibson County Utility District Tom Atchley | Treasurer Hendersonville Utility District
36
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
Freddie Weston Jr. New President
Freddie Weston Jr. is a lifelong resident of Mount Juliet. He graduated high school in 1976 and began working at West Wilson Utility District in February of 1977. He was hired as an inspector of new construction, but also read meters, repaired leaks and has performed every aspect of water treatment and distribution at West Wilson. He became Assistant General Manager and then in 2002, General Manger. Freddie holds a Distribution II license. West Wilson Utility District has a 16 million gallon per day water treatment plant and serves 20,878 customers in the Western Wilson County area. In 2002, under Freddie’s leadership, the district created its own construction division. The construction division does open trench, directional bore and auger bored pipe installations. The district also has a full time mechanic shop for truck and equipment maintenance. West Wilson currently has 106 employees. In June, 1977, Freddie married his high school sweetheart, Trudie Sikes. Freddie and Trudie have two children, Brooke Hines and Ethan Weston. Brooke, a Registered Nurse, is married to Jonathan Hines. Brooke and Jonathan have two children, Weston and Pressley. Ethan works in the directional drilling department at West Wilson. Ethan married Jessica Jordan in 2012. Freddie enjoys farming on the family farm with his father and brother raising cattle. His hobby is tractor pulling.
3rd Quarter, volume 27
Bruce Giles
New Board Member
Bruce Giles currently serves as the General Manager of First Utility District of Knox County (FUD). FUD serves 33,000 customers in Southwest Knox County. He manages a staff of 95 people, approximately 600 miles of distribution and 500 miles of collection system, a water plant with 34 million gallons per day capacity and a wastewater plant with 25 million gallons per day capacity. Prior to joining FUD, Bruce spent 14 years working for the City of Oak Ridge, first as the Regulatory Compliance Coordinator followed by subsequent jobs as the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager and finally as the Public Works Operations Manager. Bruce also worked for the consulting engineering firm, CH2M HILL where he served as the Program Manager for the Knoxville Utilities Board’s PACE 10 sanitary sewer rehabilitation program. Bruce also worked for Cannon & Cannon Engineering where he served as a Vice President with duties including project development and delivery as well as management. Bruce is married with 4 children, holds a bachelor’s degree from East Tennessee State University in Environmental Health and also holds certification from the National Leadership Training Institute. He is a past member of the TN Backflow Prevention Association Board of Directors and is also a past member of the TN Industrial Pretreatment Certification Board. He has been a member of both the Water Environment Federation and the American Water Works Association for 18 years where he currently serves on the Management Committee. He is also involved with his local church and serves on numerous non-profit boards and committees in East Tennessee.
37
TUEC Scholarship Golf Tournament Larry Lewis | Source Water Protection TAUD
The 2013 Tennessee Utility Education Corporation (TUEC) Scholarship Golf Tournament was held on June 3, 2013 at the Stones River Country Club in Murfreesboro. This year, 77 golfers participated in the tournament and each player received a sleeve of golf balls, a TAUD windshirt, snacks and more. The golf committee works hard to make this tournament a success and we appreciate their work. The members of the committee are: Mike Clingenpeel, Tournament Director Caroline Oakes Carolyn Yates Duke Julian Josh Cravins Keener Billups Paolo Fonda Marc Nichols Rick Pearson Ryan Leisey Dustin Henderson John Hall Larry Lewis A special thanks to Kirk Smith and Jessica Julian for their help with registration as well as Mike Clingenpeel for his work in getting the tournament ready and Caroline Oakes for organizing the giveaways.
38
WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO THANK ALL OUR SPONSORS. HOLE SPONSORS:
Affinity Benefits of Tennessee American Development Corporation C.I. Thornburg Co., Inc. Eco-Tech, Inc. GRW Engineers, Inc. Jackson Thornton & Co., P.C. M&H/Kennedy Valve Next Generation Underwriters Raymond James & Associates S & S Utility Sales Southeastern Tank, Inc. Southwest Securities TUA United Utilities, Inc. Wascon, Inc.
Alliance Water Resources Bass Berry & Sims Crom Corporation Garney Companies, Inc. HD Supply Waterworks Kidwell & Company McWane Cast Iron Pipe Co Piper Jaffray & Co Regions Bank Corporate Trust SSR-Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Southern Pipe & Supply Tennessee 811 United Systems & Software, Inc W & W Engineering, LLC Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital LLC
BEVERAGE SPONSORS:
BAR Environmental, Inc. Southern Sales Company, Inc.
LUNCH SPONSORS:
Branstetter, Stranch, & Jennings Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital LLC
SIGN SPONSOR:
G&C Supply Company
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
First Flight Champs THE WINNERS OF THE TOURNAMENT WERE: Championship Flight 1st Place (54) Mike Clingenpeel Terry Lynch Kevin Mullins Zack Romaine 2nd Place (56) Greg Greer Chris Milton Jeff Morrison Jaimie Wolsky 3rd Place (56) Tom Atchley Rick Pearson Joe Rewa
2nd Flight 1st place (66) James Brewer Dan Carter Mitch Frazier Mickey Williams 2nd Place (66) Josh Cravins Jerry Cravins Jonathan Cummings Bruce Evans 3rd Place (66) Larry McElroy Dustin Henderson Kevin Hickerson Carter Woodruff
Closest to the Pin
Longest Drive –Ladies
#3 #6 #12 #16
#7
Larry McElroy Valerie Smith Mitch Frazier Chris Milton
1st
2nd 3rd
Caroline Oakes
Longest Drive –Men Joe Rewa
We appreciate your support of this scholarship effort. See photos on next page. 2nd Quarter, volume 27
39
>>> NOT NECESSARILY PICTURED IN SAME ORDER AS NAMES LISTED<<<
1st place (66) | Mitch Frazier, James Brewer, Dan Carter, Mickey Williams
Closest to the pin | Mitch Frazier pictured with tournament director Mike Clingenpeel
2nd Place (66) | Jonathan Cummings, Josh Cravins, Jerry Cravins, Bruce Evans (not pictured)
Closest to the pin | Chris Milton pictured with tournament director Mike Clingenpeel
3rd Place (66) | Carter Woodruff, Larry McElroy, Dustin Henderson, Kevin Hickerson, and also pictured Mike Clingenpeel
Longest Drive | Caroline Oakes pictured with tournament director Mike Clingenpeel
Closest to the pin | Larry McElroy pictured with tournament director Mike Clingenpeel
Longest Drive | Joe Rewa pictured with tournament director Mike Clingenpeel
40
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
3rd Quarter, volume 27
41
TAUD’s 2013 ANNUAL MEETING
N A SH V EGE A S T E N N E S S E
This year’s annual meeting was held at the Stones River Country Club in Murfreesboro after the TUEC Scholarship Golf Tournament. Following dinner, attendees got a unique experience at our Nashvegas themed event. Taylor Entertainment from Nashville, set-up a life-like casino at the country club. Craps, roulette, Texas hold’em, black jack and let-it-ride games were all available for attendees to experience. Each attendee received $30,000 in play money. The top three winners received gift card prizes. With all the excitement, it proved to be one of our best themed events. Don’t miss it next year! 42
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
PITTSBURG TANK & TOWER MAINTENANCE CO., INC.
SAVE! We have a crew in YOUR AREA! Inspections Repair New & Used Wet In Service Cleaning Relocation Dry Paint Erectors ROV Insulation Dismantles (Robotic) API Mixing System
Tanks Elevated Underground Ground Storage
ROV inspections can be viewed on TV console during inspection & DVD provided. All inspections include bound reports, recommendations and cost estimates.
Hugh McGee 270-826-9000 Ext. 330 www.watertank.com
527740_Pittsburg.indd 1
3rd Quarter, volume 27
4/15/11 9:40:35 PM
43
UPCOMING CLASSES >>> CHATTANOOGA 8/27 Emergency Operations 6 hrs. All COOKEVILLE 10/29 Safe Drinking Water Act Update 10/30 Safe Drinking Water Act Update
Call the TAUD Training Station (615) 900-1000 You may register for any of these courses online at: www.taud.org, click “Training”, then click “List All” or select your desired category: -Water Treatment/ Distribution -Wastewater/ Collection -Certification Prep -Conferences -Backflow Training -Safety -Natural Gas -Commissioner’s Training
44
6 hrs. WT 3 & 4 6 hrs. WT
GRAY 8/26 Hazard Communication/TN Right-to-Know 3 hrs. All 8/28 Trench Excavation Competent Person 6 hrs. DS or CS 8/29 Emergency Operations 6 hrs. All 10/7 Water Loss (2 Day) 12 hrs. WT 10/22 Safe Drinking Water Act Update 6 hrs. WT 3 & 4 10/23 Safe Drinking Water Act Update 6 hrs. WT 10/24 Safe Drinking Water Act Update 6 hrs. DS
8/7
GATLINBURG Business of Running a Utility Conference
6 hrs.
All
8/14 10/3 10/8 10/9
JACKSON Practical Math for Distribution Operators Water Loss (2 Day) Cross Connection Renewal Cross Connection Basic
6 hrs. 12 hrs. 6 hrs. 15 hrs.
DS WT or DS All All
JOHNSON CITY 8/27 Confined Space 6 hrs. All KNOXVILLE 7/30 GPS/GIS Benefits, Equipment, & Operation 6 hrs. DS or CS 7/31 TOSHA Safety Training 6 hrs. All 8/1 Flagger Certification Course 4 hrs. DS or CS 8/2 Lockout/Tag Out 3 hrs. All 8/12 Fundamentals of Water Treatment 12 hrs. WT 8/21 Trench Excavation Competent Person 6 hrs. DS or CS 8/22 Confined Space 6 hrs. All 8/23 CPR/AED/Basic First Aid Class 6 hrs. All 8/28 Emergency Operations 6 hrs. All 9/3 Cross Connection Renewal 6 hrs. All TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
9/4 10/9 11/4
KNOXVILLE (continued) Cross Connection Basic Water Loss (2 Day) FALL CRAM SESSIONS
MEMPHIS 10/29 Cross Connection Renewal
15 hrs. All 12 hrs. WT or DS 12 hrs. All
6 hrs.
All
MURFREESBORO 7/23 Cross Connection Renewal 6 hrs. All 7/24 Cross Connection Basic 15 hrs. All 8/13 Practical Math for Wastewater Operators 12 hrs. WW 8/19 Fundamentals of Wastewater Treatment 12 hrs. WW 8/19 Fundamentals of Water Treatment 12 hrs. WT 8/27 Practical Math for Water Treatment Plant Operators 12 hrs. WT 8/27 Pumps & Motors (Advanced) 18 hrs. All 8/27 Pumps & Motors (Intermediate) 12 hrs. All 8/27 Pumps & Motors (Introduction) 6 hrs. All 9/9 Fundamentals of Water Distribution 6 hrs. DS 9/9 TOSHA Safety Training 6 hrs. All 9/11 Trench Excavation Competent Person 6 hrs. DS or CS 9/12 Bacteriological Sampling & Monitoring 6 hrs. DS or WT 9/17 Cross Connection Renewal 6 hrs. All 9/18 Cross Connection Basic 15 hrs. All 9/23 24 Hour HazMat Class 12 hrs. All 9/25 Wilkins Backflow Preventer Repair Class 6 hrs. All 9/26 Pretreatment Regulatory Review & Update 6 hrs. CS or WW 9/27 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Update 6 hrs. WW 10/1 Granular Media Filter Optimization 12 hrs. WT 10/1 Water Loss (2 Days) 12 hrs. WT or DS 10/8 Practical Math for Distribution Operators 6 hrs. DS 10/14 Fundamentals of Collection 6 hrs. CS 11/4 FALL CRAM SESSIONS 12 hrs. All 11/12 Cross Connection Renewal 6 hrs. All 11/13 Cross Connection Basic 15 hrs. All
3rd Quarter, volume 27
REGISTER TODAY Classes subject to change or meet maximum capacity, visit website, www.taud. org, for current info. Business Conference August 7 - 9, 2013 Gatlinburg Convention Ctr Gatlinburg, TN Conference features: • • • • • • •
Vendor Displays TUPAC Golf Tournament Trap Shoot TUPAC Silent Auction Administrative Sessions 6 Hours of Operator CE 6 Hours of Commissioner Training!
To register for this these event, please visit www.taud.org Click on the “Conferences” tab and then choose the Business Conference link for more information & registration forms.
45
GAME - SPOT THE DIFFERENCES
Find 10 differences between the original photo, pictured top, and the changed photo, pictured bottom.
frog Find ge 41 n pa o46
TENNESSEE UTILITY NEWS | www.taud.org
3rd Quarter, volume 27
47
P.O. Box 2529 Murfreesboro, TN 37133-2529 . www.taud.org