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Environmental considerations for off-mains wastewater systems
The majority of UK homes and commercial premises – 95%, in fact – are connected to the main drainage system, so wastewater is drained and processed at a nearby wastewater treatment works.
For the 5% of homes and businesses not connected to the mains sewer system, there are a few key environmental factors to bear in mind when living with a septic tank or small sewage treatment plant.
YOUR WASTEWATER SPECIALISTS
Practical guidance for protecting your surroundings
Simple day-to-day habits make a big difference to how well your wastewater system performs and how gently it impacts the environment.
Follow these tips to keep your system compliant, efficient and environmentally responsible.
Environmental tips for sewage treatment solutions
Use cleaning products with little or no phosphate, as this can be harmful to the environment when it appears in the water discharged from your system
Keep your sewage system well-maintained, serviced and emptied to avoid harmful build-ups and discharges
Avoid using bleach or caustic soda when cleaning your home or premises, as this can have a harmful effect on the microbes that process your wastewater
Don’t pour solvents or oil down the drain or sink
Space out washing loads so your system doesn’t become overloaded
Never let rainwater drain into your wastewater system.
Environmental advice for sewage treatment system users
Septic tank discharge must flow into a drainage field, not surface water, for environmental reasons
Small sewage treatment plants can discharge directly into surface water, as the process removes some harmful nutrients from the effluent
Older septic tanks that still discharge effluent into surface water must be updated or replaced, or a dedicated drainage field must be created, to comply with Environment Agency regulations.
For permit advice, please call us on 01706 813733 for further information.
Remember, you’re responsible for the maintenance and repair of your sewage treatment system, so it’s vital to comply with Environment Agency standards and regulations to avoid penalties.
For more information about sewage regulations, visit www.gov.uk/small-sewage-rules