Alberta Wastewater Treatment Operator Level 1 Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
- What is the primary purpose of wastewater treatment?
- Remove all water hardness
- Produce drinking-quality water
- Reduce pollutants to protect public health and the environment
- Remove all dissolved solids
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Level 1 plants aim to reduce pollutants to safe discharge levels,
not to create potable water.
- What is the typical range for raw domestic wastewater pH? 1 / 4
A. 1–3
B. 4–5
C. 6.5–8.5
D. 9–11
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Domestic wastewater typically remains near neutral, slightly
basic.
- Which wastewater component is measured as BOD₅?
- Settleable solids
- Oxygen-demanding organic matter
- Coliform bacteria
- Heavy metals
Correct answer: B
Rationale: BOD₅ assesses the biodegradable organic load requiring oxygen.
- What is the purpose of screening in preliminary treatment?
- Remove dissolved gases
- Remove large debris
- Neutralize pH
- Remove pathogens
Correct answer: B 2 / 4
Rationale: Bar screens protect downstream equipment from rags and
debris.
5. Grit chambers are used to remove:
- Floatable oils
- Fine silt
- Sand, gravel, and heavy inorganic particles
- Dissolved solids
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Grit removal prevents abrasion and damage to pumps.
6. A primary clarifier mainly removes:
- 100% of BOD
- Dissolved nutrients
- Settleable and floatable solids
- Viruses
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Primary settling targets solids that sink or float.
7. Secondary treatment is primarily a: 3 / 4
- Chemical process
- Mechanical process
- Biological process
- Radioactive process
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Biological microbes consume organic matter during secondary
treatment.
- What organism type is most important in activated sludge?
- Viruses
- Protozoa
- Nematodes
- Bacteria
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Bacteria drive decomposition of organic matter in aeration
tanks.
9. Aeration tanks supply oxygen to support:
- Chemical flocculation
- Microbial growth
- UV disinfection
- Sand filtration
- / 4