AWWA Operational Efficiency and Maintenance 5

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) in water utility operations?

Accepted Answer

To track work orders, asset histories, and schedule preventive maintenance

Answer

To automate billing and customer service functions

Answer

To monitor real-time SCADA data from remote pump stations

Answer

To generate regulatory compliance reports automatically

Question 2

During a routine pump curve test, the measured flow at shutoff head is higher than the design curve. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

The pump impeller diameter may need to be trimmed or the design data is incorrect

Answer

The pump is performing better than design specifications

Answer

The pump suction pressure is too low

Answer

The discharge valve is partially closed

Question 3

Which water loss control activity is most effective for identifying and locating unreported leaks in a distribution system?

Accepted Answer

Active leakage control using acoustic leak detection equipment

Answer

Increasing system pressure to push out visible leaks

Answer

Reducing operating pressure across the entire system

Answer

Installing additional storage tanks to buffer losses

Question 4

A utility notices that booster pump runtime increases significantly each summer without a corresponding increase in customer demand. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Increased system leakage worsened by higher pressures during irrigation season

Answer

Higher seasonal water rates

Answer

Reduced groundwater table affecting well pump performance

Answer

Seasonal staffing reductions causing delayed maintenance

Question 5

What does the AWWA M36 manual primarily address?

Accepted Answer

Water audits and loss control

Answer

Disinfection of water mains

Answer

Pump station design and operations

Answer

Distribution system modeling

Question 6

In a condition assessment of a water main, what does an 'A' rating typically represent in a standard 5-level scale?

Accepted Answer

Asset is in excellent condition with no observable defects

Answer

Asset requires immediate replacement

Answer

Asset has moderate corrosion and should be monitored

Answer

Asset is beyond its useful life

Question 7

Which factor most directly determines the frequency of flushing required for a dead-end water main?

Accepted Answer

Water age and rate of chlorine residual decay in that segment

Answer

The diameter of the main

Answer

The age of the pipe material

Answer

The number of service connections along the main