training & renewals
Massachusetts Title 5 Training and Certification
NEIWPCC Title 5
In addition to running the state’s wastewater operator certification and training program, NEIWPCC is now coordinating the Massachusetts Title 5 Onsite Wastewater Training and Certification of Soil Evaluators and System Inspectors. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection transferred the programs to NEIWPCC in 2004, and we now conduct the training and exams as well as chair the Onsite Advisory Committee (OAC) that was established to oversee these efforts.
The Soil Evaluator training emphasizes soil morphology principles, and consists of three days in the classroom, three days in the field, and a one-day combined written and field exam. The goal is to enhance the design, review, and approval of onsite wastewater systems throughout the state.
The System Inspector training certifies individuals to conduct the septic system inspections that Massachusetts requires when a property is sold. Attendees spend one day in the classroom, then take a half-day written exam. All certified Soil Evaluators and System Inspectors are placed in a database on MA DEP’s Web site.
Revisions to Title 5 require all Evaluators and Inspectors to renew their certification through NEIWPCC every three years. The current renewal period began on January 1, 2007. Prior to the next renewal period (January 1, 2010), all licensed Evaluators and Inspectors are required to obtain 10 hours of continuing education training credit. The intent of this program is to insure that practicing onsite professionals are properly trained and continuing to improve their knowledge of the industry. The renewal program includes a fee used by NEIWPCC to provide oversight and implementation of the program as well as to subsidize and increase training opportunities.