THE NORTH CAROLINA VOLUNTARY WASTEWATER LABORATORY ANALYST CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

The North Carolina American Water Works Association/Water Environment Association Laboratory Analyst Committee (LabNet) started a voluntary wastewater laboratory analyst certification program in 1994. Analysts are certified based on education, experience and an examination. The exams are purchased from the Association of Boards of Certification (ABC) and are available in four grade levels based on an increasing complexity of analysis and knowledge. Exams are offered twice a year through out the state by the NC Voluntary Laboratory Analyst Certification Board at community college facilities. The registration fee covers the cost of the exam and associated mailings and certificates. A study guide was developed by the Certification Board to help analysts prepare for the exams. As of January 2001, the Certification Board has given a total of 528 individual exams and has certified 252 Class I, 85 Class II, 34 Class III and 16 Class IV wastewater laboratory analysts.