This document contains the federal guidelines for meeting the specific requirements of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. These guidelines are also intended to assist in meeting the regulations for grant assisted facility construction and to provide information on the key elements to be included in the operation plans for wastewater treatment facilities. The guidelines include the following areas: (1) federal and state insepctions; (2) staffing and training; (3) process control; (4) safety; (5) emergency operation plan; (6) maintenance management; (7) financial controls; and (8) responsiblities. A list of references are also included. The guidelines are presented categorically to accommodate their use in either the development of new facilities or in upgrading the operation and maintenance procedures and programs of existing facilities. This publication is intended for those responsible for complying with grant requirements, specific effluent permit criteria, and related water quality standards. (MR)