Lab and Testing
Course Pack: Microscopy: Sampling, Features & Organism
Microscope Features and Benefits
Course Description
This wastewater microscopy module introduces operators to microscope components, sampling techniques, and observation workflows that support effective wastewater process control. Learners develop the skills to collect representative samples, prevent contamination, and identify key microscopic features during examination. The training also reinforces consistent documentation practices to support trend analysis and informed operational decision-making.
Learning Objectives
1) Identify microscope features that support reliable operational observations
2) Acquire representative samples for microscopic review
3) Explain how microscopy supports wastewater process control
4) Recognize common sampling errors and how to avoid them
5) Record observations consistently to support trending
Agenda
1) Why microscopy matters for process control
2) Key microscope components and feature tradeoffs
3) Sampling basics: representativeness, containers, labeling
4) Sample handling: timing, contamination avoidance
5) Observation workflow: what to look for and how to record
Target audience
Water and wastewater operators and lab technicians
Level
II
Learning material and method
Online on-demand
Assessment
Knowledge check and quiz (80% correct and above)
Instructor
Mike Harrington