Conference Papers | 2009 Conference Papers

INNOVATIVE SEWER BLOCKAGE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES; THE BENEFITS, GREATER IMPACTS AND BETTER OUTCOMES

John McCoy, General Manager, Bartlett’s Waste Management

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ABSTRACT

Sewerage networks are a vital part of any Water Authority’s asset base. To guarantee public safety significant capital and human resources are invested in the operation and maintenance of sewerage networks to ensure their efficient and effective operation. In Victoria the Essential Services Commission (ESC) is the economic regulator for the Victorian Water Industry and one of its roles is to approve and monitor service standards. A key service standard that is measured is the number of sewerage blockages per year with the unit of measure being number of blockages per 100KM of main.

Sewer blockages caused by tree roots is a common problem and can have a major impact on service standards and escalate public health risks. According to the ESC 75% of Yarra Valley Water’s sewer blockages were caused by tree root infiltration. Traditionally a combination of preliminary cleaning techniques via jetting and cutting has been used in association with chemical treatment via foaming. To improve current practices with the focus on value for money and the environment Bartlett’s Waste Management and Central Highlands Water have undertaken an extensive trial utilising new innovative technology to treat root intrusion. The patented technique combines CCTV with a spot spray process that effectively targets areas affected by root intrusion. This paper outlines the technique, its benefits and discusses the results to date of the trial undertaken by Central Highlands Water and Bartlett’s Waste Management at
Maryborough.