Denver Water implemented mandatory computer-based training for all design engineers effective January 1, 2023. Galloway has worked with Denver Water for more than 15 years and is taking a proactive approach to adopting the policy. With our experience, we help answer critical questions about the policy and address its importance.
Q: What is the new policy?
A: In effect as of January 1, 2023, there is “mandatory computer-based training for all design engineers that plan to submit plans for review.” Civil engineers have unlimited tries to achieve a passing score of 80% or above, and the assessment is about 40-50 questions. More information can be found on the Denver Water plan review page.
Q: Who does the policy affect?
A: The policy affects anyone who is submitting plans to Denver Water. It also applies to master metered districts that pull their water from Denver Water, such as Commerce City, Lakewood, and Englewood.
Q: Why was the policy implemented?
A: It will help ensure plan submissions follow Denver Water standards, allowing reviewers to analyze the actual design versus looking for missing standards. The training is designed to help engineers learn how to access resources, prepare accurate documentation, and effectively navigate the plan review process with Denver Water. In addition, as Denver’s development continues at a rapid pace, new players in the market might not be familiar with Denver Water standards.
Q: Why is it important to know and understand the Denver Water standards?
A: If plans are not approved upon the first submission, it can set back a project schedule. Denver Water charges additional review fees if plans are not approved in three submittals. Cleaner plans help expedite the review process and ensure the plans work for the engineer, client, and jurisdiction.
Q: What is the future of the policy?
A: Denver Water said they might consider a follow-up test, whether retaking the entire assessment or a shorter form on new material when they have significant changes to their standards. It could also be a precursor to what other jurisdictions might implement in the next decade.
Q: How is Galloway adopting the new policy?
A: Shortly before 2023, it became a company initiative to support training that discusses the new policy, how to take the assessment, and helpful tips and resources. Galloway design engineers and architectural and engineering project managers attended the training.
Each micro team executes the implementation differently depending on their projects t. Some teams will have designated people that will pass the assessment and handle all Denver Water submittals. Other teams will have all design engineers and project managers take the evaluation. To stay proactive, Galloway’s teams ensure they account for the time to study for and pass the test well ahead of the submittal due dates. Galloway will have eight to 10 engineers who have passed the assessment by the end of January and expect to have around 25 to 30 by the end of the year.
We are nationally recognized and locally preferred. We would love to work with you on your next project.
Contact Us