The purpose of the o&m program for the collections system equipment is to?

• A. Shorten lifespan of existing equipment
• B. Respond to emergencies when equipment fails
• C. Maintain system capacity and functionality
• D. Test designs for new equipment

Answer: (C)

The main idea behind an operations and maintenance program for a wastewater collections system is to keep the system operating at its designed capacity and reliability through proactive care. By conducting regular inspections, preventive maintenance, cleaning, lubrication, and timely repairs of pumps, valves, interceptors, and other equipment, you prevent deterioration, reduce the likelihood of unexpected outages, and prevent overflows. This approach preserves the system’s ability to carry expected flows and function properly under normal and peak conditions, which is exactly what keeping capacity and functionality means.

Shortening the lifespan of equipment goes against the purpose of O&M, which is to extend life and reliability. While responding to emergencies is a part of maintenance, the primary aim is to reduce emergencies by preventing them. Testing designs for new equipment falls outside routine O&M and belongs to design and commissioning activities.