No sewer sleeping

San Diego is looking for a few good watchdogs to monitor its sewers. “The City needs enhanced security guard services at its various water and wastewater critical infrastructure sites located throughout San Diego County on a twenty-four hours a day, 7 days a week basis, consisting of roving foot patrols, vehicle patrols, and stationary guards,” says a recent request for bids. “The City estimates it will require a minimum of 121,000 service hours, which is equivalent to fifty-nine dedicated security guards.” Standards are rigorous. “Security Guards shall possess an acceptable level of agility, stamina, and overall good physical health allowing them to stand for up to eight hours, walk long distances over uneven terrain, dirt or rocky paths, day and night, in all weather conditions, and lift twenty-five lbs.”

In addition, guards “shall be capable of operating and responding to radios, telephones, alarms, and camera equipment using proper phraseology.” Also important: “Sleeping on duty is prohibited! If the Contract Administrator determines that a Security Guard is unaware of their surroundings or appears to be sleeping on duty, the field supervisor shall be immediately notified, the Security Guard shall be relieved of their post and the Contractor shall forfeit the cost of the entire shift.”