Wastewater Program
Certificates of competency - On-site System Maintainer
An On-site System Maintainer (OSM) is authorized to perform septic inspections and/or preventive maintenance service (including limited repairs) on septic systems*. He/she regularly submits Operation/Performance Monitoring Report forms to Public Health - Seattle & King County.
*A septic system is also referred to as an "on-site sewage system" in official documents, forms and applications.
Qualifications required to become an On-site System Maintainer
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Two years of relevant septic system experience such as a license for 2 years as a designer, installer or pumper or written proof of employment on company letterhead explaining experience and competency.
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Proof of successful completion within the previous 12 months of a health officer recognized course of instruction in the operation, monitoring and maintenance of septic systems. Recognized courses are offered by:
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The applicant is required to pass an examination administered Public Health - Seattle & King County. |
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The applicant or his/her employer must meet State of Washington minimum bonding requirements and contractors liability.
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Examination fee - $240.00
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Certification fee - $240.00
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Certificate of Competency Exam
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The Maintainer Competency Exam covers all aspects relating to the operation, problem diagnosis and maintenance of septic systems. It includes, but is not limited to, an extended knowledge of the following:
The exam is closed-book and applicants are given 4 hours to complete the exam. The exam will consist of multiple choice and true/false questions. A self-powered, non-printing, non-programmable, non-text calculator is allowed. Results will be mailed to the address indicated on the application.
IF YOU PASS, a letter will be included with the exam results requesting:
- A copy of proof of performance bond (i.e. specialty or general contractor's license)
- $240.00 OSM Certificate of Competency fee
IF YOU FAIL, you may schedule a re-take of the exam on the next scheduled exam date. A new application form and $240.00 application and exam fee are required.
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At least one continuing education credit (CEU) must be earned by the business owner and septic system pumper employees during the previous calendar year. Recognized courses are offered by:
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Attendance at all mandatory informational/educational meetings held by Public Health - Seattle & King County.
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Submit Application for Certificate of Competency On-site System Maintainer.
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Proof of State of Washington minimum bonding requirements and contractors liability:
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Renewal certification fee: $240.00 |
Renewal Deadlines:
- Expiration date of the OSM Certificate of Competency is DECEMBER 31st OF EACH YEAR. The OSM may not conduct performance monitoring inspections or preventive maintenance of OSS after December 31st unless the certification has been renewed.
- Applications for renewal will be accepted annually beginning in mid-November.
- The exam re-take IS NOT required if the renewal application is received prior to February 4th of the certification year.
- The exam re-take IS required if the renewal application is received after February 4th of the certification year.
- A late fee of 25% of the renewal amount ($60.00) will be charged for a renewal application received after January 15th.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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