Confined Space and AMPs & GIS (Hybrid) - Ellettsville, IN

Course Description

Total Hours: 3 Technical & 2 General Wastewater, 2 Technical & 3 General Water

Morning Session: Confined Space for Water and Wastewater Operators

This session introduces water and wastewater operators to confined space entry principles commonly encountered in utility operations. Participants will learn how to identify confined spaces and understand the steps required to protect operators working in these environments. The course covers hazards associated with confined spaces that can result in serious injury, illness, or death, with a strong emphasis on safety awareness and proper procedures. Topics include the definition and categories of confined spaces, distinctions between non-permit and permit-required confined spaces, atmospheric testing requirements, ventilation practices, roles and responsibilities of confined space entry team members, and required safety equipment.

Afternoon Session: GIS & Asset Management for Utility Planning

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and asset management have become essential tools for water and wastewater utilities as regulatory expectations continue to evolve. Several states, including Indiana, have implemented asset management-related requirements, with potential changes anticipated in the future. This session provides an overview of GIS and asset management concepts and their practical application within utility operations. Participants will learn how accurate system data supports infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, and long-term funding strategies, and how these tools can be used to make informed decisions about system needs and priorities.

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Define confined spaces and distinguish between non-permit and permit-required confined spaces
• Identify common confined space hazards encountered in water and wastewater utility operations
• Explain the importance and proper sequence of atmospheric testing and ventilation
• Describe the roles and responsibilities of confined space entry team members and required safety equipment
• Recognize how GIS is used to document and manage water and wastewater system assets
• Identify key components of an effective asset management program
• Describe current and emerging GIS and asset management requirements affecting utilities in Indiana
• Explain how asset data supports infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, and funding applications
• Apply safety awareness and asset management concepts to support efficient, compliant, and sustainable utility operations

Instructors: Rex Blanton & Adam Hershberger, AIRW