Every now and then, a wastewater treatment facility must be completely shut down and decommissioned. There are a number of reasons why this might happen, the most common being:
- Older equipment is being sunset, replaced by more advanced and up-to-date equipment.
- The wastewater treatment facility is connected to a larger industrial facility, which is itself being shut down or relocated.
- The wastewater treatment facility is being connected to another system, such as a municipal collection system.
Regardless of the reason, decommissioning a wastewater treatment facility requires a thorough and meticulous process, which can help avert any unforeseen effects on the environment or on public health.
Tips for Closing a Wastewater Treatment Facility
While the specifics of the process may vary from one facility to the next, there are a few general guidelines we’d recommend.
- Have a written closure plan. When you know the site is to be decommissioned, create a written plan for closure, highlighting the steps required and the parties responsible for each. Be sure this plan is circulated to all parties involved with the decommissioning.
- Discharge residual wastewater. You may be able to discharge any residual wastewater to a nearby sewer, though doing so requires you to obtain written permission from the owner of that sewer.
- Deal with sludge and solid waste. Any sludge or solid waste left in the wastewater treatment center must be transported to a solid waste management facility. Separating the sludge from wastewater may require you to contact a dewatering provider, like PHS. The use of centrifuge technology is essential for separating sludge, reducing waste volume, and boosting the efficiency of your plant decommissioning process.
- Properly dispose of chemicals. You’ll also need to ensure that no wastewater treatment chemicals are left on-site. Arrange to return them to the manufacturer, or else provide them to another wastewater treatment center that can use them.
- Get rid of any scrap metals. Generally speaking, any remaining scrap metals can simply be taken to the nearest salvage yard.
- Remove or fill tanks. Any tanks must either be removed from the site or else filled with inert solids (or other approved materials).
- Follow demolition guidelines. Before demolishing the wastewater facility, it’s imperative to make sure you’re complying with all local laws and ordinances. In many areas, you’ll need to have the facility inspected for asbestos before it can be torn down. (And if asbestos is found, additional safety guidelines may be required.)
Learn More About Sludge Dewatering Equipment
As you prepare for the closure of a wastewater treatment facility, you’ll want to have the right partners to support you. That includes companies like PHS, which can provide the technology you need to properly get rid of sludge and solid waste.
PHS has decades of experience working with municipal water treatment facilities, providing technical guidance and next-gen equipment. Whether you’re planning a routine tank cleaning or a plant decommissioning, we’re here to help however we can. Reach out to the team at PHS at your convenience.