What is a key function of pretreatment facility inspectors during investigations?

The key function of pretreatment facility inspectors during investigations is to ensure the collection of reliable samples. This is critical because accurate sampling is essential for assessing the quality of wastewater and understanding the extent of any potential pollution problems. Reliable samples provide the necessary data to determine compliance with regulations and standards, which directly impacts environmental protection and public health. By securing valid and representative samples, inspectors can make informed decisions about the treatment processes in place and the overall effectiveness of the facility.

In contrast, supervising employees, managing financial records, and conducting community outreach are not primary responsibilities of pretreatment facility inspectors. While those tasks may be important in their own right, they do not directly relate to the inspectors' role in ensuring the integrity and reliability of the sampling process during investigations.