Selecting package wastewater treatment plants (PR72)

More than 7000 septic tanks and package wastewater treatment systems are installed in the UK each year. The market for package plants is expanding. Each package plant is designed for a specific application, thus increasing costs to manufacturers and purchasers, and creating a new situation for the regulators each time. This report reviews UK and international practice for the design, assessment and operation of small wastewater treatment systems that serve population equivalents of less than 2000. It presents a framework for the process selection of package plants that takes account of size, performance and compliance with effluent quality requirements. It highlights the need for the proper design and testing of package plants by an independent third-party assessor. Key words: urban drainage, water infrastructure, sewerage.