IEPA Finalizes CEU Requirements – Wastewater Operators

May 15, 2019

The IEPA will begin requiring Continuing Education Units from wastewater operators.  This long-anticipated requirement will become effective on July 1, 2019.

Here is what we have learned:

  1. The clock starts for all operators on July 1, 2019.
    1. All Class 1 & 2 operators will have until July 1, 2023 to earn their 30 CEU’s.
    2. All Class 3 & 4 operators will have until July 1, 2022 to earn their 15 CEU’s.
    3. After this initial rotation, ALL operators will go to a 3-year renewal period.
  2. The Agency is reducing the field time required for Class 1 certifications.  The eight years of field experience (and in combination w/coarse work) is being reduced to six years.
  3. All operators are encouraged to set up an online account with the Agency to track CEU’s.  Water operators currently have this ability and has proven very effective and efficient.
  4. Renewal fees are unknown at this time.
  5. More information about the Wastewater Operator Certification can be found by clicking on the following link: https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/water-quality/wastewater-operator-certification