Water Well Journal
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/629532
Of course, I can't let operators off the hook too easily. Although most of the following information is directed to operators, it also applies to the owners or managers of water systems. For Operators (and Owners) The operator should realize the consultant is there to produce the same final outcome as the operator; he only provides a different service towards this outcome. Both parties have the same ultimate goal: to provide their client (or employer) with a successful project that will pro- duce clean, safe water for the consumers. The consultant is not there to "disrespect or ignore you" no matter what it may seem like. His job is simply to represent the client and their interests in the best way he can. As a matter of fact, the consultant is generally duty bound by contract and ethics to put the interests of his client ahead of even his own. I cannot personally recall a situation where a consultant purposely sabotaged the success of a project for personal reasons. Certainly, any consultant who regularly uses any dishonest methods will be weeded out in a short time as the profession, clients, or regulatory agencies will eventually discover these actions and force the consultant out of business and eventually out of the profession. I know from personal observation the vast majority of con- sultants are fair and honest individuals who actually pride themselves on their ability to work with operators as well as contractors and clients. The operator should seek out the advice of a knowl- edgeable local consultant whenever a critical situation or plant conditions warrant, even if the consultant is not necessarily involved on your specific project. Although many operators feel you cannot possibly learn any water treatment knowledge from a book or without expe- rience, this statement is not true. Modern technology has pro- vided us with processes that now treat water that could not be treated 10 years ago. There is a world of newer technologies coming along every day that are being pioneered by engineer- ing firms—that's right, engineering firms. Consultants often have the advantage of experience work- ing with various types of treatment and operational problems with other clients you may never have heard about. The con- sultant may be able to offer you methods or resources you may not have known about which may help you in your job. If you really want to be a hero to your employer, I can think of no better way than by finishing a project with few or no problems and in a time frame where so many others have previously failed. Also, as corny as this may sound, consider offering advice and friendship to your local consultants, even if they don't ask for it. Get to know them as individuals over a cup of coffee and share some of your war stories. Offer to assist them in the preparation of specifications and plans for your facility. Offer advice about staying away from risky procedures or using construction methods that may come back to haunt either of you. Remember, the consultant really only wants what you want: a successful and reliable project and a satisfied client you can both brag about. Ask to be involved in the design portion of the project. Do the research and learn the intricacies of the treatment process or the well under design. Ask questions and be avail- able to the consultant for meetings and discussions. Provide input that is technically feasible, cost effective, and reliable. Don't be defensive or arrogant should one of your recommen- dations not be accepted, but politely ask for a detailed and full explanation. Read and understand every detail of the project design and specifications before you complain about the con- sultant. Quite often, disputes result simply from the operator's failure to fully grasp and understand what the consultant's intent or criteria is for a specific design element. If you are involved on a project with a consultant and problems do occur, immediately contact the consultant or your water system manager or owner and attempt to find a mutually agreeable solution to your concern. One of the most serious and frequent problems I observe between operators and consultants is the desire by some oper- ators to disregard, or worse yet, totally ignore the consultant's role in the project. An approach such as this will definitely lead to suspicions and ill feelings on the part of the consultant and your em- ployer that won't benefit anyone in the end. Involve the con- sultant in all relevant decisions and don't try to go around him or circumvent his authority and instead try to deal directly with the contractor on technical matters. This is surely a recipe for a project disaster that will undoubtedly lead to severe problems with the consultant, and probably the contractor and your employer as well. Respect his role and authority during the project and submit any disputes through the channels described in the contract documents. As I previously indicated, consultants will be much more receptive to input or criticism if a legitimate problem is come upon and he has been fully involved and informed throughout the construction process. For Everyone I sincerely hope the suggestions I have offered will benefit both consultants and operators who manage and operate the facilities we design. To our valued operators, managers, and owners: Read and use what I have suggested during your next project, share this article with your consultant, and start a dialogue before you start the project. To my engineer brethren I offer a simple challenge: Take the information I have given you, combine it with your own talent and experience, and share the result with the operators you will be working with. I guarantee all of you opening this line of communication will see less conflict, better communication, and a happier client. Through this effort, you will be able to join the many professionals and operators who have said, "It doesn't have to be like this." Until next month, work safe and smart. WWJ Ed Butts, PE, CPI, is the chief engineer at 4B Engineering & Consulting, Salem, Oregon. He has more than 35 years experience in the water well business, specializing in engineering and business management. He can be reached at epbpe@juno.com. Twitter @WaterWellJournl WWJ February 2016 43