What does the SCADA system in a treatment plant primarily do?

The SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system in a treatment plant is primarily responsible for monitoring, controlling, and automating various treatment processes. This integrated system allows operators to oversee the functioning of machinery and equipment from a centralized location, enabling real-time data acquisition and automated control of processes such as water flow, chemical dosing, and equipment status.

By continuously monitoring parameters such as pressure, temperature, and flow rates, the SCADA system helps ensure that the treatment processes operate efficiently and within regulatory compliance. It also provides alarm functions to alert operators to any anomalies or malfunctions, allowing for timely intervention and maintenance. This automation enhances operational efficiency and reliability while reducing the likelihood of human error.

The other options describe important functions related to wastewater treatment but do not accurately capture the primary role of SCADA systems. Automatic repairs of faulty equipment, employee training, and laboratory sample collection are essential tasks in a treatment facility but fall outside the core capabilities of a SCADA system.