Charles R. Cox

Short Schools and Operator Qualifications

nitely indicated that there is a marked change in their character, in that they are now seldom due to the use of untreated polluted water or to improperly designed water purification equipment, but that recent outbreaks are due to: (a) cross-connections between potable and non-potable supplies; (b) to abnormal conditions developing suddenly during periods of drought or flood; or (c) to failure to operate properly water supply systems and purification works. In other words, failures in supervision or operation are of paramount importance. One seldom stops to consider the duties confronting the average superintendent in charge of a water supply system or the extensive training necessary for the prompt and efficient exercise of such duties. A great deal of the training required in the operation of a water supply system can be secured only by experience. On the other hand, an adequate technical training is of fundamental importance but this cannot be expected of those in charge of the smaller supplies as long as the prevailing small salaries continue. The successful operation of water supply systems, therefore, requires that competent operators be encouraged to improve their ability and that they be protected from discharge for political motives. A very brief review of the water supply statistics for New York State will indicate the magnitude of the problems of operation: There are 769 public water supplies in New York State, 392 of which are secured from wells or springs, the remaining being secured from surface sources, although 49 supplies are secured from both ground water and surface sources. Due to the generally satisfactory