Conference Papers | 2009 Conference Papers

SEPTICITY OCCURRENCE & MITIGATION WITHIN WASTEWATER TRANSFER SYSTEMS

Matthew Gore, Environmental Scientist, BioRemedy Pty Ltd;
Chris McLaughlin, Environmental Scientist, BioRemedy Pty Ltd.

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ABSTRACT

The occurrence of septicity within wastewater transfer systems often requires a significant investigative approach to determine the appropriate mitigation response.  Septicity of sewage is generally related to extended retention within wastewater transfer systems.
Potential effects of septicity, simplistically, are, generation, and emission, of odour to atmosphere, and, eventual infrastructure degradation, by way of formation, in situ, of corrosive compounds.

Septicity produces an inherently poor working environment for operational staff within wastewater transfer systems and treatment plants. Complex operational issues arise, through generation of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), a toxic compound prominently produced by septicity, when attempting maintenance activities within manholes, pipework, pumping stations and treatment plants.

In addition, the generation of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), an unpleasant gaseous compound, may result in complaints from people living, working, or just passing through, the area of emission. Furthermore, issues often arouse media interest and lead to negative publicity for
network managers.

Operational issues related to septicity are varied, with resolutions often a combination of system optimisation and specialist product addition, with each application scenario requiring a concerted investigation prior to solution application. Mitigation of septicity is achievable, through the application of appropriate strategies designed to ensure both operational and managerial considerations are adequately addressed.

KEY WORDS

Hydrogen sulphide, septicity, mitigation.