Exam Practice Study Guide 2 versions
This comprehensive study resource serves as a high-yield test bank specifically
engineered for candidates preparing for the Los Angeles Department of Water and
Power (LADWP) Class 1611 Meter Reader Examination. It features realistic, exam-
style practice questions accompanied by 100% verified correct answers and detailed
civil-service rationales covering essential field operations. Reviewing these materials
will ensure you master vital competencies—such as reading multi-dial analog electric
meters from right to left, computing water consumption math in units of 100 cubic feet,
identifying field safety hazards, and properly logging data into handheld route
computers
QUESTION 1
A meter reader is assigned a route that includes both electric and water meters. What is
the most efficient way to organize the readings?
A. Read all electric meters first, then all water meters
B. Follow the established route sequence provided by the utility
C. Read meters randomly to save time
D. Read only the meters that are easiest to access
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The established route sequence is designed to maximize efficiency and ensure
all meters are read in a logical order. Deviating from the route can cause missed readings
and inefficiency.
QUESTION 2
A meter reader notices that an electric meter's display is flashing a code that is not in
the training manual. What should the reader do?
, A. Ignore the code and record the last known reading
B. Report the code to the supervisor and follow established procedures
C. Attempt to reset the meter
D. Ask the customer what the code means
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Unknown error codes should be reported to the supervisor. The reader should
not attempt to reset or interpret codes without proper training.
QUESTION 3
A water meter is located in a pit that is partially filled with water. What is the safest
action for the meter reader?
A. Reach into the water to read the meter
B. Use a long-handled tool to lift the meter cover and read from a distance
C. Skip the meter and mark it as inaccessible
D. Drain the pit before reading
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Using a long-handled tool allows the reader to safely access the meter without
risking electrical shock or contamination from standing water. Skipping the meter may be
unnecessary if it can be read safely.
QUESTION 4
A customer asks a meter reader to take a photo of the meter reading as proof. What
should the reader do?
A. Take the photo and show it to the customer
, B. Politely explain that photos are not part of the procedure and refer the customer
to the utility
C. Ignore the request
D. Take the photo but do not share it
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Meter readers should follow established procedures and not deviate by taking
photos for customers. The customer should be referred to the utility for any documentation
requests.
QUESTION 5
A meter reader is reading a smart meter that communicates remotely. The display is
blank. What does this most likely indicate?
A. The meter is broken
B. The meter is operating normally and the display is off to save power
C. There is a power outage
D. The meter has been tampered with
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Many smart meters have displays that turn off to conserve energy. A blank
display does not necessarily indicate a problem. The reader should follow procedures for
smart meters.
QUESTION 6
A meter reader observes that a water meter is registering flow even though the
customer's property appears vacant. What should the reader do?
, A. Ignore it as normal
B. Report it as a possible leak or unauthorized use
C. Turn off the water at the meter
D. Notify the customer immediately
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Flow on a vacant property may indicate a leak or unauthorized water use. This
should be reported according to established procedures.
QUESTION 7
A meter reader is approached by a person claiming to be a utility employee who asks to
see the reader's route sheet. What should the reader do?
A. Show the route sheet if the person has identification
B. Politely decline and report the incident to the supervisor
C. Ignore the person and continue working
D. Give the person a copy of the route sheet
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Route sheets contain sensitive information. The reader should not share them
with anyone without proper authorization and should report the incident.
QUESTION 8
A meter reader encounters a meter that is installed inside a locked building. The
customer is not home. What should the reader do?
A. Leave a note asking the customer to call the utility
B. Record an appropriate no-access code and proceed