RCAP Webinar | Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) What is it and Why is it Important

Join us for an informative class designed specifically for rural community water systems on the importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This session will provide a clear understanding of what SOPs are, why they are essential for efficient and safe water system operations, and how they can help with regulatory compliance, including potential EPA guidelines.

Participants will learn:

• The definition and purpose of SOPs

• Why SOPs are critical for operational consistency, training, and emergency preparedness

• An overview of EPA guidelines related to SOPs for water systems

• How to apply the 5 W’s (Who, What, When, Where, Why) and 1 H (How) to SOP development

• Step-by-step guidance on creating effective SOPs for day-to-day operations and emergency response

This class will empower rural water system professionals to create practical, easy-to-follow SOPs that enhance system performance, improve staff communication, and ensure regulatory readiness. This webinar is funded under RCAP’s EPA NPA 1 23 – 25 grant.

The presenter for this webinar is Allen Spradling, Community Environmental Management Advisor, Communities Unlimited (CU).