Operators' Defense

Certified Water & Wastewater Operators

In response to legal obligations for certified operators created by the Water and Wastewater Systems Operators' Certification Act (63 P.S. § 1001 et seq.) and regulations developed by the Department of Environmental Protection (Title 25, Chapter 302), Mette, Evans & Woodside has created the Operators' Defense Practice. The practice area provides counsel and representation to state-certified water and wastewater facility operators.

Certified Operators may be subject to a variety of legal challenges, including formal enforcement action by DEP, less formal investigatory activities that may lead to fines or compliance orders, and employer-employee disputes regarding changes to legal obligations of both created by the new regulations. All of these situations require legal advice and representation, which operators have frequently not obtained because of the cost.

The Operators' Defense Practice operates in a unique manner, similar to group legal services plans, charging an affordable annual fee to gain access to comprehensive counsel and representation with respect to the Certification Act and regulations. Clients are free to seek legal counsel whenever they need it without worrying about hourly fees.

So whether it's a meeting with DEP staff or challenging a proposed fine before the Environmental Hearing Board, certified operators who take advantage of this unique and affordable program can turn to the attorneys at Mette, Evans & Woodside when they need one - at no further cost. †

Randall Hurst, a certified wastewater operator with over two decades of practical experience, along with extensive experience in environmental law, leads the practice group. Mette, Evans & Woodside's experienced attorneys provide counsel to clients on their legal obligations under the Certification Act and regulations, information regarding employer-employee relations, and legal representation for Certification Act matters, including litigation when necessary.

† Certain limitations apply. Subject to the restrictions as stated in the retainer agreement.