September 2023

T exas W ater U tilities

JOURNAL

VOLUME 32

SEPTEMBER 2023

"Proudly Serving Education Excellence since 1918"

NUMBER 9

Texas Water Utilities Association Regional Training – 2023

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR 2023

DATES TWUA Annual School – Corpus Christi..................... September 18-21, 2023

West Texas Regional School - Lubbock........................ November 7-9, 2023

(Not all regions offer Surface 1 which is a 24 hour class these above dates reflect all regions starting on Monday and offering 24 hour classes. Once we receive all the schools fliers we will post if in fact the school begins on Monday at 1:00 or Tuesday at 8:00 ) Check the TWUA Website for the most up-to-date information related to TWUA Regional opportunities. If travel and being in crowds cause you concern or your employer has not approved travel, please look at the TWUA Computer Based Training options. (https://twua.org/online-class-dates) Dates for Annual School 2023. The dates for the 105th Annual School in Corpus Christi, are September 18th – 21st 2023. This will be Monday thru Thursday. The events have been pushed forward a day. Opening Session and Awards will be Monday. The school will begin Tuesday and conclude with vendor move out at noon Thursday.

In This Edition: TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL ( ISSN – 1051709X) is published monthly by the Texas Water Utilities Association, located at 210 E. Hwy 79, Hutto, Texas 78634 for Operators, Engineers, Managers, Laboratory technicians, Customer service personnel, Vendors, and other Professionals employed in, or interested in, the water and or wastewater industry.

President Message................................ 4

ED News ............................................. 6 If you want to get a complete look at lake levels, go to www.waterdatafortexas.org

Ten dollars of each annual membership dues payment to the Texas Water Utilities Association pays for a subscription. Nonmember subscriptions price: the USA $100.00 per year; $10.00 per single copy $125.00 per year outside the USA. Periodicals Postage Paid In Hutto, Tx. And Additional Mailing Offices.

The Texas Water Utilities Association is wholly independent, and is not affiliated with the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Federation, or any other National Organization.

Safety News ......................................... 9

ADVERTISERS:

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Texas Water Utilities Association – Journal 210 E. Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Texas 78634.

Ana-Lab............................................................................................. 19

The Texas Water Utilities Association Journal is not responsible for facts and or opinions expressed by contributors or in advertisements herein. Editorials and comments do not necessarily represent the official policy of the Texas Water Utilities Association.

Garrison Minerals............................................................................... 19

All inquiries should be directed to: Texas Water Utilities Association, 210 E. Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Texas 78634. Phone 512-459-3124. Any materials accepted for publication is subject to revision and editing At the discretion of the publisher.

MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE: Mike Norris - Chair of Management Jim Siddall – President Clarence L. Wittwer – President-Elect Vicente Carrizales – Vice President Bill Brown – First Past President John Krause – Second Past President Ric O’Conner – Vendor Rep. / Ex. Officio Russell Hamilton - Executive Director

_______________________________ Front Cover Photo Courtesy of: Sonterra, Texas September 2023

EGSW.............................................................................................. 27

Homa Pump....................................................................................... 18 LSPS Solutions................................................................................... 22 Oller Engineering, Inc......................................................................... 17 Osha................................................................................................. 20 Pape-Dawson Engineers..................................................................... 23 Pump Solutions, Inc........................................................................... 21 Samco Leak Detection........................................................................ 19 Smith Pump Company, Inc.................................................................... 8 USA Bluebook.................................................................................... 16 Magna Flow................................................................. Inside Back Cover

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: TWUA Training Schedule......................................................... 10 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 3

President’s Message

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

by Jim Siddall

Have you registered for the Annual School in Corpus Christi (September 18-21) this year? If you haven’t, time is running out. Take advantage of your TWUA membership and save money on the cost of registration.

Register early and save money. Attend the school to enrich your resume. Connect with other operators to gain feedback and advice from peers to stay on top of the utility industry. Meet new friends. Take in the sights and attractions in Corpus Christi. Familiarize yourself with industry advances, new equipment for the water and wastewater industry.

With this new submission deadline, it is even more important for the applicants to get their information submitted on time.

This will be even more important to those who are in high school. Best advice: don’t wait until after the Christmas/ New Year’s holidays to apply for a “State of Texas Academic Achievement Record.” Instead, it is recommended you request your records before December as early in the fall as possible.

We have spoken with counselors and administrators in several school districts, and they indicated it is possible to get your records before the January 15 deadline, but they stressed that requests must be made early. We did not receive any reports of problems meeting the earlier submission date this year.

Check with your high school counselor for advice on your specific situation.

Your membership has many benefits, one of the most important is your eligibility for you and your dependents to receive a scholarship from the V M Ehlers Foundation. The Foundation operates as a Texas nonprofit organization and promotes its founding purposes by offering scholarship assistance which will further the water related education of TWUA members and their sons and daughters. In the last ten years Ehlers has awarded 528 students over $1,250,000, this year your association awarded $151,800 to 54 applicants.

The second improvement was the foundation’s method of evaluating the applications. In the past each application was assessed and awarded points for the number of years the applicant or sponsor of the applicant has been a member of TWUA, their major course of study, the applicant’s plans after completing their degree, household income, academic record, and extracurricular activities. This year extra (bonus) points were given to applicants who actively participate in TWUA events. Applicants were awarded one point for each district meeting the member attended during the previous five years, and 15 points was added for each year a member has served as an officer in a district, regional, or state organization. In the past the average score on an application was 35 points. This year the average increased to 53 points. We had nine applicants who scored over 90 and they each received an additional $1000 in scholarship funds. To receive these bonus points, applicants must attach a copy of their member’s TCEQ training record of meetings or have their district, regional, or state secretary provide a letter attesting attendance or verifying service as an officer during the last five years.

The Endowment Representatives are always seeking methods to improve and increase the scholarship awards and application process. The foundation is happy to announce our first-year results of the enhancements made this year to assist our members and their dependents. In January 2023, two significant improvements were added to benefit the applicants directly.

First, the deadline for submitting applications for the 2023 - 24 academic year was moved back from July 1 to January 15 This was done to allow processing of applications, awarding of scholarships, and, most importantly, the earlier mailing of checks so students will have them in hand before they begin the fall semester. Instead of sending the checks in late September, checks were sent in late June. All our 54 applicants this year should now have their check in hand to begin the 2023/2024 academic year. The application submission deadline will remain January 15 from 2023 forward.

4 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

Your membership does have benefits that directly affect you and scholarship eligibility is just one! Good luck to all our applicants’ future endeavors. Don’t forget to register early for a regional school and/or Annual School: East Texas August 28-31, and Annual School September 18-21.

September 2023

TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION connect. engage. educate. connect. engage. educate.

DISTANT LEARNING DISTANT LEARNING NOW TCEQ APPROVED NOW TCEQ APPROVED

Visit www.twua.org for more information Visit www.twua.org for more information

September 2023

Contact Us: 888-367-8982 Contact Us: 888-367-8982

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 5

Central Office News

by Russell Hamilton, TWUA Executive Director

F

ather, we bow our heads in respect and humbly say thank you, as we acknowledge that you are the creator. We take comfort in knowing that You remain in charge and control of life as we understand it. We need You, and we welcome You in all we do. We come into Your presence seeking Your grace, calm, guidance, and forgiveness. Father, we pray for Your mercy and grace, and we ask that You guide, direct, protect, and bless TWUA and its members. Father, we thank you for your forgiveness as we offer praise in the name of Jesus. Amen The drought is still concerning in parts of Texas. Parts of Texas are getting rain, but watersheds remain dry. In West Texas, Lake Spence is sitting at 15.9 % (- 0.9 %). White River is sitting at 19.0 % (-2.2 %). Panhandle - Lake Meredith is sitting at 46.4 % (-1.2 %), and Greenbelt is at 11.6 % (-0.6 %). If you want a complete look at current lake levels, go to waterdatafortexas.org. The drought has never left for some.

Annual School – The 105th Annual School will remain in Corpus Christi. The dates are September 18th – 21st, 2023.

Tuesday, September 19th at 8:00 a.m., all training classes begin.

Are you looking for in-person classes – How about our remaining 2023 Regional opportunity – Lubbock will be November 7th – 9th, 2023. The entire regional calendar and links to all the fliers will be activated as soon as possible, so you can register for any region now, using budgets more efficiently.

Computer Upgrades – TWUA Central Office and our I.T. folks (Leon) have been busy migrating a new database and operational interfaces. The process has hit a few bumps, but we are plugging through, and the association will end up with a system that will serve our current and future needs. For those who have registered for training classes, thank you for your patience and understanding. For those unaware of the changes and upgrades, take a look and understand that this is a work in progress, and it will only improve.

If you experience problems, PLEASE call Central Office at 888-367-8982. The goal of Central Office is to provide 3 to 4 online training opportunities each week and support in-person events around the state.

6 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

The Story Goes Something Like This – All the Difference in The World Every Saturday morning, I take a long walk around a park near my home. There’s a small lake located in the center of the park. Each time I walk by this lake, I see the same elderly woman sitting on a park bench at the water’s edge with a small metal cage sitting beside her.

This past Saturday, my curiosity got the best of me, so I stopped and walked over to her. As I got closer, I realized that the metal cage was, in fact, a small trap. There were three turtles, unharmed, slowly walking around the base of the trap. She had a fourth turtle in her lap on a towel that she was carefully and gently scrubbing its shell with a spongy brush.

“Hello,” I said. “I see you here every Saturday morning. If you don’t mind my nosiness, I’d love to know what you’re doing with these turtles.”

She smiled. “I’m cleaning off their shells,” she replied. “Anything on a turtle’s shell, like algae or scum, reduces the turtle’s ability to absorb heat and impedes its ability to swim. Over time this scum can corrode and weaken the shell.”

“Wow! That’s really nice of you!” I exclaimed.

She went on: “I spend a couple of hours each Saturday morning relaxing by this lake and helping these little guys out. It’s my own strange way of making a difference.”

“But don’t most freshwater turtles live their whole lives with algae and scum hanging from their shells?” I asked.

“Yep, sadly, they do,” she replied.

I scratched my head. “Well then, don’t you think your time could be better spent? I mean, I think your efforts are kind and all, but there are freshwater turtles living in lakes all around the world. And 99% of these turtles don’t have kind people like you to help them clean off their shells. So, no offense… but how exactly are your localized efforts here truly making a difference?”

The woman giggled aloud. She then looked down at the turtle in her lap, scrubbed off the last piece of algae from its shell, and said, “Sweetie, if this little guy could talk, he’d tell you I just made all the difference in the world.”

September 2023

Central Office News

The moral: Maybe not all at once, but one person, one animal, and one good deed at a time. Wake up every morning and pretend like what you do makes a difference. It does.

Author unknown In the early 50s, a struggling country singer was on the road with his family visiting other relatives in Arkansan.

A stranger to local customs and social status, this visiting singer was surprised to learn that a nephew was told under no circumstances was the friend allowed in the family’s home.

Under their breath, the relatives would make comments such as white trash, from the wrong side of the tracks, and future criminal every time the young boy would come over.

Nephew James had proudly, excitedly spread the word around school that his uncle was in town and that he was an up-andcoming country music star, and that he would play his guitar and sing in the evenings at James’s house on the porch for anyone who cared to stop by.

Naturally, this impressed James’s young friends, especially the quiet young man from the “wrong side of the tracks.”

James came home from school and was excited to report that many of his friends said they would come by to hear the music and meet a future star. James also said his friend had a guitar but knew little about playing or how to tune the instrument properly. James asked his uncle if he would mind giving his friend a few pointers or at least tune his guitar.

James’s uncle said he would be happy to help and asked when his friend might come by.

James said his friend did not have a phone, but he would ride his bicycle to his friend’s house and share the good news.

James’s Dad said, I don’t like you hanging out with that boy, but he can come over as long as he stays out of the house.

James’s uncle was confused by this stipulation but grabbed his guitar and headed for the porch swing.

A few minutes later, the unwanted guest was seen walking with a battered guitar slung across his back.

As the young boy came closer, the uncle could begin to see the boy’s features and glances at the homes and the people of this better neighborhood. The young man was very polite and

September 2023

well-mannered. He quickly offered his hand and thanked him for any help or suggestions.

The guitar was weathered, and one could tell it was never of high quality. The young man had fashioned a braided string around the neck and base, and this young man was proud of the fact that his mother had worked extra to provide the instrument.

The uncle asked if they might swap instruments so that he might get the best tune out of the old battered guitar.

The young man smiled and said gladly.

The uncle asked if anyone had ever taught him how to tune a guitar.

The young man said, no sir, but watched intently and asked many questions. After the guitar was tuned, the young man stood, offered his hand, thanked the uncle repeatedly, then turned to walk away.

James’s uncle knew what it was to be poor, and he could tell the young man was sincere in his thanks, so the uncle asked if he could show the young man how to position his fingers to make some basic cords and how to strum the strings.

James’s uncle sat and discussed music and how to play the guitar for hours, then the boy walked away, but now he was smiling and had a different swagger.

James’s mom said to her brother, I’m not sure why you spent so much time with that boy; he is bad news, and will probably be in jail before his 18th birthday.

The uncle thought for a moment and said, it costs nothing to be kind, and it wasn’t that long ago we were the family on the other side of the tracks.

This young man who was not invited into the house went on to become a motion picture star, sold millions of records, and his songs are still played. This was a true story, and the young man was none other than Elvis A. Presley.

Stay Safe, and Remember – we do not need all the operators in Texas to be a member of TWUA – JUST YOU ! ! ! !

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 7

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Safety News

EMPLOYERS MUST PROVIDE AND PAY FOR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) - OSHA.GOV The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers protect you from workplace hazards that can cause injury or illness.

Controlling a hazard at its source is the best way to protect workers. However, when engineering, work practice and administrative controls are not feasible or do not provide sufficient protection, employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to you and ensure its use.

PPE is equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples include items such as gloves, foot and eye protection, protective hearing protection (earplugs, muffs), hard hats and respirators.

Employers Must Pay for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) On May 15, 2008, a new OSHA rule about employer payment for PPE went into effect. With few exceptions, OSHA now requires employers to pay for personal protective equipment used to comply with OSHA standards.

The final rule does not create new requirements regarding what PPE employers must provide.

The standard makes clear that employers cannot require workers to provide their own PPE and the worker’s use of PPE they already own must be completely voluntary.

Even when a worker provides his or her own PPE, the employer must ensure that the equipment is adequate to protect the worker from hazards at the workplace.

Examples of PPE that Employers Must Pay for Include:

proximity suits, full gear) ♣ Hard hats ♣ Hearing protection ♣ Welding PPE All personal protective equipment should be safely designed and constructed, and should be maintained in a clean and reliable fashion. It should fit comfortably, encouraging worker use. If the personal protective equipment does not fit properly, it can make the difference between being safely covered or dangerously exposed. When engineering, work practice, and administrative controls are not feasible or do not provide sufficient protection, employers must provide personal protective equipment to their workers and ensure its proper use. Employers are also required to train each worker required to use personal protective equipment to know: •

When it is necessary

•

What kind is necessary

•

How to properly put it on, adjust, wear and take it off

•

The limitations of the equipment

•

Proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of the equipment

If PPE is to be used, a PPE program should be implemented. This program should address the hazards present; the selection, maintenance, and use of PPE; the training of employees; and monitoring of the program to ensure its ongoing effectiveness.

♣ Metatarsal foot protection ♣ Rubber boots with steel toes ♣ Non-prescription eye protection ♣ Prescription eyewear inserts/lenses for full face respirators ♣ Goggles and face shields ♣ Fire fighting PPE (helmet, gloves, boots, September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 9

TEXAS WATER UTILITIES TRAINING SCHEDULE To register for any TWUA Training Classes – the preferred method of registration is using the online computer based electronic process, activated by clicking on specific event(s). For those who do not have internet as an option you may complete the registration form and fax to (512) 459-7124 and additionally you may contact TWUA Central Office @ 888-367-8982. Please Note – Due to recent increases for training materials, class costs have changed. Early Bird preregistration is defined to mean 30-days prior to any training event. All registrations received after the Early Bird period must pay additional registration fee. Central Office strongly encourages everyone to take advantage of the Early Bird pricing and utilize the computer based (electronic) registration.

20-Hour Classes: (Early Bird Pre-registration) $325 member $425 Non-member Onsite $375 member $475 Non-member

24-Hour Classes: (Early Bird Pre-registration) $385 member $485 Non-member Onsite $435 member $535 Non-member

ONLINE CLASS DATES

TWUA LIVE, INSTRUCTOR LED - COMPUTER BASED TRAINING

https://twua.org/online-class-date

REGIONAL SCHOOL DATES

TWUA IN PERSON TRAINING

https://twua.org/regional-school-date

TRAINING CALENDAR

ALL TWUA SCHEDULED TRAINING

https://tmts.twua.org/calendar

10 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

September 2023

Field News

Active Listening Skills To Practice John Monroe, GOVLOOP

Active listening takes practice to improve and maintain. The more you use these techniques, the more natural they feel.

Here are a variety of active listening exercises you can use to help improve your Communication Skills.

• Verbal, Active Listening Skills – Paraphrase or Summarize the main point(s) of the message the speaker shared to show you fully understand their meaning.

This will also give the speaker an opportunity to clarify vague information or expand their message.

Example – “So what you’re saying is, your current content management system no longer meets your team’s technical needs because it doesn’t support large video files.”

• Ask Open-ended Questions – Ask questions that show you have gathered the essence of what they’ve shared and guide them into sharing additional information. Make sure these questions cannot be answered with a simple yes or no.

Example – You’re right; the onboarding procedure could use some updating. What changes would you want to make to the process over the next few months?

• Ask Specific Probing Questions – Ask direct questions that guide the presenter to provide more details about the information they’ve shared or narrow down a broad subject or topic.

share their feelings. By showing compassion, rather than just feeling it, you’re able to connect with the speaker and begin establishing a sense of mutual trust.

Example – I’m sorry you’re dealing with this problem.

Let’s figure out some ways I can help.

• Share Similar Experiences – Discussing comparable situations will not only show the speaker you’ve successfully interpreted their message, but it can also assist in building relationships. If the speaker has shared a problem, providing input on how you solved similar challenges is valuable to others.

Example – I had a tough time getting started with this program, too. But it gets much easier. After just a few weeks, I felt comfortable using all the features.

• Recall Previously Shared Information – Try to remember key concepts, ideas, or other critical points the speaker has shared with you in the past.

This demonstrates you’re not only listening to what is being said, but you are able to retain information and recall specific details.

Example – Last week, you mentioned adding a more senior coordinator to help with this account, and I think that is a great idea.

Example – Tell me more about your current workload. Which of these projects is the most time-consuming?

• Nod – Offering the speaker a few simple nods shows you understand what they are saying. A nod is a helpful, supportive cue and doesn’t necessarily communicate that you agree with the speaker but rather you are able to process the meaning of their message.

• Use Short Verbal Affirmations – Short, positive statements will help the speaker feel more comfortable and show you’re engaged and able to process the information they’re providing. Small verbal affirmations help you continue the conversation without interrupting the speaker or disrupting their flow.

• Smile – Like a nod, a small smile encourages a speaker to continue. Unlike a nod, it communicates you agree with their message, or you’re happy about what the speaker has to say. A smile can take the place of a short verbal affirmation in helping to diffuse any tension and ensure the speaker feels comfortable.

Example – I see. I understand. Yes, that makes sense. I agree.

• Maintain Eye Contact – Whenever possible, keep your eyes on the speaker and avoid looking at other people or objects in the room, especially smart devices.

• Display Empathy – Make sure the speaker understands you’re able to recognize their emotions and September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 11

Prevent Heat Illness at Work Outdoor and indoor heat exposure can be dangerous.

Ways to Protect Yourself and Others Ease into Work. Nearly 3 out of 4 fatalities from heat illness happen during the first week of work.

100% 20% MON TUE WED THU FRI

New and returning workers need to build tolerance to heat (acclimatize) and take frequent breaks.

Follow the 20% Rule. On the first day, work no more than 20% of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat.

Increase the duration of time at full intensity by no more than 20% a day until workers are used to working in the heat.

Drink Cool Water Drink cool water even if you are not thirsty — at least 1 cup every 20 minutes.

Dress for the Heat Wear a hat and light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing if possible.

Take Rest Breaks Take enough time to recover from heat given the temperature, humidity, and conditions.

Watch Out for Each Other Monitor yourself and others for signs of heat illness.

Find Shade or a Cool Area Take breaks in a designated shady or cool location.

If Wearing a Face Covering Change your face covering if it gets wet or soiled.

Verbally check on others frequently.

First Aid for Heat Illness The following are signs of a medical emergency! ?

?

??

??

Abnormal thinking or behavior Slurred speech Seizures

9-1-1

Loss of consciousness

1

CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY

2

COOL THE WORKER RIGHT AWAY WITH WATER OR ICE

3

STAY WITH THE WORKER UNTIL HELP ARRIVES

Watch for any other signs of heat illness and act quickly. When in doubt, call 911.

Take these actions:

Headache or nausea

Give water to drink

Weakness or dizziness

Remove unnecessary clothing

Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin

Move to a cooler area

Elevated body temperature

Cool with water, ice, or a fan

Thirst

Do not leave alone

Decreased urine output

Seek medical care if needed For more information: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) TTY 1-877-889-5627 www.osha.gov/heat Federal law entitles you to a safe workplace. You have the right to speak up about hazards without fear of retaliation. See www.osha.gov/workers for information about how to file a confidential complaint with OSHA and ask for an inspection.

OSHA 3431-05R 2021

If a worker experiences:

TCEQ Occupational Licensing Exams are Going Paperless!

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Occupational Licensing section has been diligently working on revising and converting all licensing exams from paper to computer-based testing (CBT).

We are pleased to announce that beginning September 1, 2022, all TCEQ administered exams will be available at approved CBT centers. TCEQ will no longer conduct paper exam sessions, with exceptions for Americans with Disabilities Act requests.

The only two exams not offered via CBT are the OSSF Site Evaluator and the Landscape Irrigator exams, which are currently being administered by the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX).

September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 13

Field News

CYBERSECURITY

by Wanda Venter

The dos and don’ts of workplace social media policies

Social media has become part of most peoples ‘daily routines

in the last few years. Many people use social media at some point in their day, either for personal use, or as part of their work, or both. In an ideal world, everyone would know exactly when and how to engage on Facebook, YouTube, or any other major social network. However, 15 years into the age of social media, the norms dictating what’s acceptable are still ill-defined. For employers, this lack of clarity can result in some sticky situations. That’s why it’s a good idea to spell out your company’s expectations and standards in a social media policy. But what is a social media policy, and what should be included and what should not? How can one make sure that the policy works?

What is a workplace social media policy?

A social media policy helps employers regulate how the

14 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

employees present themselves and reflect organization values online. It outlines clear, concise guidelines about how employees should behave online, and it can cover both their personal and professional activities.

Social media connects individuals and businesses through content sharing. Users can engage with each other, read customer opinions, and expand their professional networks. A social media’s employment policy’s most important function is to safeguard the company’s image and encourage employees to behave responsibly when posting online.

What should a policy include?

Define social media. Social media can mean different things to different people. Let employees know which social media sites your company uses and which ones your company’s social September 2023

Field News media policy covers. You can include blogs, social networking platforms, forums, and other types in your definition.

to contact traditional media (local news reporters, newspapers, etc.) about work-related concerns.

Rules and expectations for personal social media use. Explain the rules for behavior on personal social media accounts and let people know they should delete accounts that don’t comply or change the settings to private so that customers can’t see them. Political material, comments about competitors or complaints about bosses or customers could be banned.

Some companies have separate personal and corporate social media policies.

How to make sure your policy works

Give specific examples of inappropriate conduct. It’s not possible or legal to police all employee conduct on social media. However, employers can clarify that hate speech, bullying, retaliation, and discriminatory conduct on social media platforms may be cause for discipline or termination. Moreover, a poorly timed or worded social post could harm your organization’s reputation.

Be specific about what information cannot be shared and what constitutes a trade secret. While blanket prohibitions against revealing confidential information are not generally enforceable, telling employees not to share information about proprietary formulas, customer lists, technological specifications, and other trade secrets on their social media accounts is okay.

The consequences of social media policy violations. Social media policies should also let people know what punishments they can expect for violating social media policies and who determines those consequences. People who post incorrect information or break minor rules often need to apologize and correct their statements. Those who reveal company secrets or post inappropriate content online could lose their jobs or pay monetary damages to the business.

What should it not include?

Restrictions against employees’ abilities to connect with (or “friend”) one another on personal social media pages.

Requirements that employees (or prospective employees) provide social media account information or passwords.

General prohibitions against discussing work. Employers cannot legally prevent employees from discussing their jobs, complaining about colleagues, or disparaging company decisions and policies on social media.

Involve employees. It can be a good idea for corporate leadership to get employee feedback and buy-in when writing a social media guidance. Take the time to find out what limitations your staff finds reasonable and what would make them feel improperly restricted.

Keep it simple. The simpler the social media policy is to understand, the more likely your employees will comply with it.

Be consistent. In all aspects of deploying and enforcing your social media policy, ensure you are being as consistent as possible.

Make it an ongoing conversation. Cultural norms about social media usage are fluid, so your social media policy should be a living document. Make these standards a continuing discussion and an opportunity to train your staff rather than simply a policy they need to sign off on when they start at your company.

Cultivate a cybersecurity work environment. Cybercriminals frequently attack an organization using phishing emails and similar tactics, making employees the first line of defense that needs strengthening. Employees need training and guidance to avoid different types of cybercrime.

About the author – Wanda Venter Wanda Venter is a co-founder of Aviaware Technologies Corporation. As an entrepreneur, she has been in the IT industry for over twenty years. Her background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Concordia University Texas. Aviaware specializes in custom software design and development, focusing on cybersecurity and disaster recovery to ensure the security and privacy of critical business data. Email: info@aviaware.com

Any language prohibiting employees from using social media September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 15

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16 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

September 2023

IF NOT, WHY? Do you know that TWUA members: • Receive a discount (from 10% to 35%) on TWUA training • Receive a subscription to the monthly TWUA Journal • Receive free updates on regulatory and technology changes • Have easy access to industry matter experts, vendors, and product providers • Have the opportunity to apply for scholarship assistance for yourself or your legal tax dependent children

MEMBERSHIP PLANS BEGINNING AT $60/YEAR!!

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We are a water resources firm focused on quality services and solutions.

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Oller Engineering, Inc.

September 2023

Rich Oller, PE | 806.993.6227 rich.oller@oei-eng.com www.oei-eng.com Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 17

Our $10M inventory means lead times in days, not weeks or months Superior solids handling impellers to keep up with modern wastewater demands HOMA’s PMR5 relay plugs into existing Mini-Cas Socket to simplify your retrofit A wide range of competitor adapters allow for installation of your new HOMA pump without costly downtime

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info@homapump.com

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September 2023

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Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 19

PROTECT WORKERS IN TRENCHES Prevent trench collapses and save lives:

SLOPE or bench

trench walls,

SHORE trench walls

with supports, or

SHIELD trench

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22 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

September 2023

There are 3 steps in the TCEQ exam process.

1. application/payment 2. approval/conditional approval 3. designate testing location You are not through the process if you have not designated a testing location with TCEQ!

TWUA.org

WATER DISTRIBUTION & WASTEWATER COLLECTION | WATER SUPPLY INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE DESIGN | WASTEWATER TREATMENT DESIGN Texas Engineering Firm #470

September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 23

TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION

Individual Membership Application Use this form to: 1) Join TWUA "At Large" 2) Join TWUA and a District/Chapter 3) Renew your TWUA Membership Please Print Clearly Application for: o

Active Member

o o o o

Full-Time Student Retired Member Membership Renewal New Member

"At Large" or District/Chapter Name:____________________ Membership for year 20____ Name:____________________________________________________ SS# _______ - _______ - __________ Home Address:_____________________________________________ City:____________________________State:________ Zip:___________ Home Phone: (

)____________________________________

Work Phone: (

)____________________________________

E-Mail Address:_____________________________________________

Employer:______________________________________ Job Title:_______________________________________ Amount of Dues Enclosed: $________________________ Signature of Member:_______________________________________ Today's Date:______________________________________________ A portion of your TWUA Dues is allocated for a subscription to the Texas Water Utilities Journal.

Submit all dues to the TWUA Central Office: TWUA Central Office, 210 East Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Tx. 78634 For more information, Ms. Adee at: 512-279-8129. Fax: 512-459-7124.

September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 25

TCEQ AUGUST LICENSES BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY TESTER AVILA, MATHEW BADILLO AYALA, JESUS BLACK, RYAN JORDAN BRADFORD, TRACE C BROCKWAY, ALEXANDER WALSTON BROWN, ZANE ROBERT CAMPOS, MARIO CLARK, MATHIS JAMES COX, CALEB DEMBOWSKI, JOHN DIAZ, ARMANDO DONNELLY, JASON M SR EDWARDS, ANDREA FELICI, RIO DANTE FISCHER, MARK A

SCHLACHTER, SHAWN M

HART, CHRISTOPHER AUSTIN

SESSIONS, JACKIE LEE

HENSON, NOLAN

SEYMOUR, CHRISTOPHER COREY

HERNANDEZ, ROBERT

SIRY, ROBERT

HYDEN, KALEB C

SMITH, CHRIS JOSEPH

KLENK, GARRETT WILLIAM

SMITH, WILLIAM R

MANN, STEVEN JAMES

ESSARY, NANCI CRISANN

SPANGLER, SHANE GREGORY

MCGUIRE, STEVEN P

FEDER, RICHARD C

TERUEL, MICHAEL

PARKER, LARRY

HOBBS, SAMUEL C

THOMAS, MICHAEL RICHARD

PRICE, JACK MICHAEL

MAYORGA, JUAN G

TRUJILLO-MARTINEZ, FRANCISCO

REECE, AUSTIN DANIEL

VANCE, CHARLES WYLIE

REPKA, TYLER LEE

WALKER, KEVIN O

RICHEY, JESSICA LYNN

WARREN, EDMOND WAYNE

RIETCHECK, PATRICK

BEDFORD, REGINALD DWAN

WHEELER, NATHAN SCOTT

SMITH, AUSTIN COURTNEY

BURNEY, JASON

WHITTLEY, DAVID B

URQUIZO, JACOB

CASTILLO, JULIAN

WHATLEY, ALLAN R

CHRISTIAN, STEFFANIE

CUSTOMER SERVICE INSPECTOR

FLORES, FRANCISCO JAVIER FORTNER, JORDAN ELIJIAH FREEZE, KRISTIAN B

DIAZ, GERARDO

GALINDEZ, CHRISTOPHER

HOWE, KANE A

GARCIA, RYAN

JONES, ROCK L

CARRIZALES, JULIO C

GARCIA-HERNANDEZ, GERARDO D

JONES, ZAKARY

COPELAND, TRAVIS EMERSON

HAHN, DAVID

LACEY, MICHAEL EUGENE

GONZALEZ, ELIBERTO JR

HALE, DALTON EDWARD

MCGUINNESS, JAMES RICHARD

GRAHAM, MICHAEL CLAYTON

HASELOFF, KYNTON RILEY

MILLER, JONATHAN E

HAGEMANN, BRIAN K

HERNANDEZ, ISAAC

NAVA, LUIS E

PETRUSH, BENJAMIN T

HERNANDEZ, RUBEN V

NIXON, KENNETH E

RAUSCH, DAVID MICHEAL

HERSEY, BILLY

OLIVAS, SEBASTIAN

STRICKLAND, JACOB W

HUDSON, ZACHERY

PATTERSON, RICKY

TESSMER, CHRIS D

HUMPHRIES, JOHN COLBY

RAMIREZ, LUIS

IGLESIAS, GEORGE JUNIOR

RESKO, CHESTON LYNN

KLAPUCH, ZACHARY J

TAYLOR, CORALIN I

LANDRUM, CASSIE

WALL, ANTHONY

LISCANO, MARCO ANTONIO LONGORIA, CHARLES D MCDANIEL, JEFF

CLASS B

MEDINA, JAMES A MOORE, BRANDON D

CAMPBELL, DUSTIN D

OLVERA, JAIR ABNIEL

GARZA, ROBERT JR

ORTIZ, ERIC M

HITT, COLEY R

PEREZ, MIGUEL A

HOLTSFORD, GREGORY A

RIVERA, ERIK

MALDONADO, SAMUEL

ROBERTSON, LOGAN CADE ROGERS, JAMES CASEY

CLASS B

CLASS C ALISON, OWEN W EDENBURN, TYLER JOHN

GROUND WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

CLASS C

RUIZ, TOMMY GIOVANY RUIZESPARZA, ERIK

CROWE, NATHANIEL

SCHERER, JAKE ALEXANDER

GOODWIN, JEFFERY K

26 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

CLASS B

CLASS C

COOPER, BLAKE SURFACE WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

BARTSCH, LAYNE W

LILLEY, CHARLES C

WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR

FISCHER, ROBBY L GILBERT, JOHN CHRISTIAN GLOVER, STEVEN R JR HOOD, JOHN SHANNON

DAVIS, ROGER DEWAYNE GARCIA, CHARLES A GONZALEZ, JAVIER GONZALEZ, TROY HORTON, WESLEY RYON HOWELL, LARRY A JOHNSON, TRACER JUAREZ, JOSUE ADRIAN LOCK, CALVIN LEE MAINORD, MICHAEL C MCCLAINE, JUSTIN MITCHELL, KENNETH ONTIVEROS, ESTEBAN PATTERSON, CHRISTOPHER J REID, JEFF DEAN RESKO, CHESTON LYNN RICHTER, DAVID M RODRIGUEZ, FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ SANDERS, JOHN SAUCEDO, MANUEL YOUNG, KRISTOFER WATER OPERATOR

HUMPHRIES, KEVIN MICHAEL KAULFUS, AUSTIN KEITH

CLASS A

KRIVENSKY, MICHAEL J MINGS, FRANCES

CHICAS, SANTOS A

PEREZ, JOHN D

CRAWFORD, ROY D

POPE, MARK BRADLEY

GERMANY, CAYTON R

SMITH, MICHAEL

GODINEZ, MIGUEL A

TURNER, TOMMY W

GUZMAN, RUBEN D JR

VALENZUELA, MELINDA

KENNER, DAVID L

WEISER, ROBERT

LAQUE, CHRISTOPHER MCGEE, DAVID C

September 2023

TCEQ AUGUST LICENSES MILLER, DONALD L JR

DUARTE, MARCOS

MCDONALD, COLIN L

TUBBS, LARRY H

REYES, PAUL J SR

DUKE, LOGAN WAYNE

MONSIVAIS, ARMANDO

TUCKER, JEREMY LEON

RIVERA, THOR

DUNLAP, DYLAN REESE

MORALOPEZ, MATTHEW

TURNER, MATTHEW SPENSER

ROHWEDDER, WILLIAM T

DURAN, ALEJANDRO

NANCE, LYNDON PATRICK

VILLARREAL, JONATHAN A

SEELKE, JONATHON E

EIME, RYAN NEIL

NASH, MAURICE

WARREN, STEPHEN B

ELLINGTON, COLTON LANE

OLIVA, VICTOR EDUARDO

WELMAN, SHEA WILLIAM

ESCUINTLA, WILLIAM ALFREDO

OVERSTREET, WILLIAM

WHITMIRE, JAMES ALAN

CLASS D

FELLOWS, RYAN

POOL, KENT B

WOELKE, PATRICK

ALLEN, HOLLY DEANNE

GALINDO, DAVID MICHAEL

PRESAS, DANIEL

WOLFE, WYATT ANDREU

ANDERSEN, ADAM STEWART

GARCIA, IVAN

REID, CARSON TUCKER

WOOD, CHARLES CODY

ANDERSON, GARY

GIBBS, BRANDON

REYES, ERIC

ZIEGELER, JOHN

ANDERSON, JOHNNY DOUG

GOMEZ, ROBERTO ISMAEL

RICCI, TREVOR SCOTT

ARMSTRONG, DIANA ASHCRAFT

GRAY, JACOAH ROWAN

ROWLAND, BRENDON

BAKER, ETHAN AUBREY

GUERRERO, GILBERTO

SANDERS, DALTON

BANNER, THRESA JEAN

GUZMAN, SAUL

SCHUBERT, EMMIE

BARELAS, RENE

HARVEY, XXAVIER

SIEMER, LOGAN

BARRON, DAVID

HERNANDEZ, RENE MAURICIO

SMITH, JASMYNE

BELL, JOHN CLAY

HERRING, SETH MICHAEL

SMITH, KORBIN REESE

BENNETT, JOHNATHAN

HOFF, TONY

SOEPANGAT, JANUAR

BERRY, BILLIE J

HOFFMAN, STEFANY D

STRADER, SAMUEL

BOSWELL, LANE

HOLLKAMP, MARK DOUGLAS

STRICKLAND, DANIEL

BOTELLO, MATTHEW

HOWELL, JACOB AARON

TALLANT, JOSHUA NICHOLAS

BRAKEFIELD, MICHAEL

IBARRA, MARILYN

TATE, JARRETT WAYNE

BRAWLEY, CRAIG DAMON

JOHNSON, HUNTER

TORRES, BRETT

CARRANZA, TOMAS

JOHNSON, THOMAS BRIAN

CASTLE, CHRIS

JUAREZ, JOSE LUIS

CEDILLO, SUSANA

KELLER, ERIC J

CHAIREZ, ALEXANDER SKYE

KUBICEK, ANTHONY

CORPUS, VINCENT ANTONIO

KWAN, JONATHAN

DANNA, LEO

LABO, JAMES FRANKLYN

DAVIS, DYLAN BLISS

LAGNADO, EDEN LEAH

DAVIS, SETH

LANIER, MARSHALL

DEBRUIN, KYRA

LIMON, JAMES BRYAN

DEVERS, WESTON

MACIAS, ERIN A

DONLEY, JOSEPH THOMAS

MARTIN, CALEB JORDAN

DOVALI, ANAPAULA

MARTIN, HUNTER GAVIN

DREW, JONATHAN

MCCLANAHAN, RYAN HEWITT

Exam Prep Optimize Mental Readiness

WASTEWATER COLLECTION OPERATOR COLLECTIONS I BARRERA, JUSTIN CARL BILBREY, ZACHERY A BOGUE, JEREMY CARDOZA, ULISES COOPER, GRANT CORONADO, JOHNNY ABEL CUELLAR, CALEB

EGSW

Environmental Group Southwest

WIPES IN PIPES

With Micro-Solve® microorganisms multiply. This reduces the grease that binds wipes together. Micro-Solve® reduces the risk of contact with disease.

Wipes when flushed and combined with other products and grease that is poured down drains, create "fatbergs". Once they enter the sewer lines, they can accumulate and cause backups, damaging the city's infrastructure.

WHAT IF You knew “HOW” you would NOT fail?

September 2023

Call 512-775-5358 www.egsw.us Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 27

TCEQ AUGUST LICENSES LETTRIES, KEVIN

HUTTO, COLTON GLEN

MARTINEZ, OMAR

JIRON, SIMON MICHAEL

MCFAIREN, NOEL D

JOINER, RONALD

MOODY, JOHN TIMOTHY

KEENEY, KODY

MOONEYHAM, DAVID

LEACH, CHRISTOPHER MCKINLEY

HERNANDEZ, MICHAEL RAMON

BORNN, RYAN

MOZ, ALEJANDRA MARIBEL

DENG, JIANGANG

LEE, MARK S

HOWARD, CODY CHRISTOPHER

MURPHY, CALEB JONATHAN

HIGGINS, JERRY J JR

LITTLE, PAUL EDWARD

IVERSON, KIRK STEVEN

NOOR, YOUSEF

LOPEZ, RICARDO O

LLOYD, DONOVAN

JIMENEZ, ALEJANDRO

PINGENOT, RYAN

LOCKEN, DAVID WAYNE

KOCH, MICHAEL BRANDON

MLAK, JEFFREY J

PULLEY, CHRISTOPHER FREDERICK

MONTANEZ, HECTOR G

LOMBARDO, ALLYSON MARIE

LAWS, TYRON TYREESE

SAVOIE, DEREK W

OLD, CRAIG L

MACKAY, DAVID ZANE

MARKHAM, WESTON DURANGO

SMITH, CAMERON T

ROBERTS, DANIEL DAVID

MADDEN, TYLER LAVELLE

MILLER, JOHNNY M

SOLORIO, GIONNI

MCGINNIS, WESLEY R

MONTOYA, EDUARDO

RODRIGUEZ, RONALD K

STRINGER, JEREMY D

MCMILLAN, PATRICK WESLEY

VALADEZ, RICHARD

MILLER, ASHLEIGH

WEST, BILLY JOE

MOFFETT, WAYLAND REX

DUARTE, MARCOS FERNANDEZ, MARK

WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

FILOMIO, CHRISTOPHER MARCUS GRABEEL, NICHOLAS WAYNE

CLASS A

GRACIA, LUIS

MUNOZ, STEFAN MICHAEL NATION, TIMOTHY O

CLASS B

NAVARRO, DAMIAN

NASH, ROBERT LEE

ORTIZ, DANIEL

ADAMS, GARY A

POTTER, RON

AGUILAR, CRUZ E

REGAN, CALEB TAYLOR

BOYD, CORDEL L

ALEXANDER, KAMRON MYLES

BROWN, MATTHEW J SR

PADILLA, RUBEN

RIOS, ALFREDO

APODACA, NOE

PINHEIRO, JOHN P III

RODRIGUEZ, AVINGER

CLARK, CRUZ

BAKER, BRANDIE R

CLARK, TUCKER

PIPPINS, ZSAPORA DEANA

SHIPLEY, JASON

BALL, JERRY WAYNE

DAVILA, ANDREW

REYNA, RENE

SHORTER, ELIGHA

BEVILL, JACOB

DAVIS, SCOTT J

ROJAS, ALBERT

SPRUIELL, LANDON

BOGGESS, CHARLES I

ROMERO, CRISTIAN

TORRES, MARK

GARZA, DIONICIO JR

BRAGGS, STAMON BENNARD

HAMAD, ZACHARY ANDREW

SANCHEZ, JESSE

UMPHLETT, ROBERT TODD

CANNADAY, RAYMOND NOAH

LOCK, JUSTIN T

SOWELL, VANDY TAYLOR

YANDELL, BLAKE TRAVIS

CARRILLO, ENRIQUE

MARQUEZ, EDGAR

TACKETT, RICHARD

COLE, CHRISTOPHER ANTWON

OVIEDO, JESSICA M

TAYLOR, CAMERON SPENCER

CONSTANTE, JESUS ANTONIO

SILCO, STEVEN J

TAYLOR, SKYLAR

CORNELIUS, JASON PATRICK

SLONE, TIMOTHY W

TELKER, SHELBY R

ANDERSON, DRAKE D

DAVILA, STEPHEN MICHAEL

VOLKMANN, CHRISTOPHER A

TOWNLEY, BRODY

FAIRCHILD, STEVEN THOMAS

DAVIS, TOBY

VALLADARES, ANDREW

FOSTER, JOHN

WEATHERALL, BENJAMIN S

DONNELL, JACOB WILLIAM

VALLADARES, CHRISTIAN

DOVALI, ANAPAULA

VEGA CARAZA, LUIS A

DURAN, MICHAEL

WALKER, DERRICK WAYNE

FAREED, ATIF OMAR

WILLIAMS, SANDRA K

PALOMO, LUIS OCTAVIO

ASHLEY, WILLIAM ARTHUR

FISHER, RANDALL LEE

BLANK, DUSTIN S

WINSTON, CORBIN

ROE, KELTON BRADY

FLOORE, BRYAN DALE

ROJAS, ISIDRO III

BROWN, BRYCE CODY

FLORES, JESSE

WEST, COREY SCOTT

EASLEY, MICHAEL L

GALINDO, DAVID MICHAEL

EAVES, JACOB CHARLES LEE

GARCIA, ESEQUIEL

GARCIA, CARLOS

GARZA, JULIAN ANDREW

GONZALES, XAVIER

GARZA, RAMON

ESTRADA, MAX

GUNTER, CLAYTON WESLEY

GREEN, AUSTIN

FYFFE, CASEY S

HERNANDEZ, JOHN

GUADIANA, GEORGE MICHAEL

HUGHES, ADDICUS Z

HOWARD, COLTON TAYLOR

GUILLEN, FABIAN VIDAL

MARQUIS, MATTHEW LEE

JOHNSTON, WD IV

HAMBERG, JUSTIN

NGUYEN, CUONG

JORDAN, SHAWN PHILIP

HANSEN, TIMOTHY

VERA, DAVID J

JUSTICE, CAMERON

HARRIS, MARTEZ

COLLECTIONS II

GARZA, ROBERTO HAWKINS, RANDY CHARLES

CLASS C

MORA, CALEB AARON

COLLECTIONS III

28 Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org

CLASS D

ONEILL, LARKIN OVERSTREET, WILLIAM

September 2023

With the onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the Governor’s Proclamation of a state of disaster in Texas, TCEQ intends to offer flexibility to licensees and disaster in Texas, TCEQ intends to offer flexibility to licensees and applicants who were in applicants who were in the process of renewing or receiving an occupational the process of renewing or receiving an occupational license and were impacted by this license and were impacted by this outbreak.

With the onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the Governor’s Proclamation of a state of

outbreak.

InOperators the interestdesiring of safety,to paper exams havecontact been cancelled through However, TEST, should TCEQ in regards to2020. testing.

There

are are some computer-based testingcenters centers remain To schedule there some computer-based testing thatthat remain open.open.

To schedule a a computer-based please the contact the CBTnear centers to are verify computer-based exam, exam, please contact CBT centers you to near verifyyou if they stillif they areFor stillother operating.

Fororother questions concerns, please email licenses@ operating. questions concerns, pleaseor email licenses@tceq.texas.gov. tceq.texas.gov.

West Texas (Lubbock ) Region November 7th – 9th 2023 TCEQ Exam Application due 30 days prior to event Don’t forget if you are testing to Designate Test Location.

September 2023

Texas Water Utilities Journal | www.twua.org 29

WITH GASOLINE $5.00 PER GALLON & HOTEL ROOMS $200.00, ALONG WITH THE UNCERTAINTY OF GROUP GATHERINGS, MAYBE COMPUTER-BASED TRAINING IS FOR YOU.

ONLINE TRAINING VISIT WWW.TWUA.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT US: 888-367-8982