Cross‐training benefits Oregon plant

Even in an emergency, this strategy empowers fewer operators to handle more responsibilities effectively and efficiently. Labor is often the single most expensive component of water treatment operations and water quality monitoring. By fully cross‐training operators in plant operations, maintenance of structures and equipment, and certified laboratory sampling and analyses, any utility can ensure that its employees have the technical capability to complete water production and water quality monitoring tasks cost‐effectively. A fully integrated program that requires operators to complete advanced training, maintain the highest possible certification, and manage diverse responsibilities usually reduces the number of staff positions required at a plant site. Job interest is increased by providing regular shift rotation and varied tasks. Cross‐training typically promotes long tenure because of the resulting job satisfaction. This combination of skill, experience, and responsibility works well during normal operations but proves to be vital during abnormal operations or emergencies, such as the record flooding in Oregon in February 1996.