NEIWPCC Title 5
In addition to running the state’s wastewater operator certification and training program, NEIWPCC also coordinates the Massachusetts Title 5 Onsite Wastewater Training and Certification of Soil Evaluators and System Inspectors. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection transferred the programs to NEIWPCC in 2004, and we now conduct the training and exams as well as chair the Onsite Advisory Committee (OAC) that was established to oversee these efforts.
The Soil Evaluator training emphasizes soil morphology principles, and consists of three days in the classroom, 2 hour classroom exam, three days in the field, and a ½ day field exam. The goal is to enhance the design, review, and approval of onsite wastewater systems throughout the state.
The System Inspector training certifies individuals to conduct the septic system inspections that Massachusetts requires when a property is sold. Attendees spend one day in the classroom, then take a 2 hour classroom exam. All certified Soil Evaluators and System Inspectors can be found on our website on the Title 5 Approvals page.
In 2006, revisions to Title 5 required all Evaluators and Inspectors to renew their certification through NEIWPCC every three years. Prior to the second and all subsequent renewals, all licensed Evaluators and Inspectors are required to obtain 10 hours of continuing education training credit. The intent of this program is to insure that practicing onsite professionals are properly trained and continuing to improve their knowledge of the industry. The renewal program includes a fee used by NEIWPCC to provide oversight and implementation of the program as well as to subsidize and increase training opportunities.
