On and after one year following July 1, 1973, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, municipal corporation, or other governmental subdivision or agency to operate a wastewater treatment plant unless the individuals identified in RCW 70A.212.030 are duly certified by the director under the provisions of this chapter or any lawful rule, order, or regulation of the department. It shall also be unlawful for any person to perform the duties of an operator as defined in this chapter, or in any lawful rule, order, or regulation of the department, without being duly certified under the provisions of this chapter.