Page 6 - A Guide for Users of Packaged Wastewater Treatment Systems

A GUIDE FOR USERS OF PACKAGED WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS - BRITISH WATER WWTP FG GU-V 1.1-2020 6

08.
DAILY DO’S AND DON’TS

A Packaged Wastewater Treatment Plant is not designed to cope with the following
products and you should avoid putting these down your drains, sinks or toilets (this list is
not exhaustive). It can have detrimental implications for the effectiveness of the treatment
system and its discharge into the environment resulting in a potential pollution risk.

DO’S DON’TS

Washing machines produce the All non-biodegradable products
largest amount of wastewater including sanitary towels,
that the treatment system has tampons, disposable nappies,
to deal with in a short space of incontinence pads, baby wipes,
time. Therefore, spread machine wet wipes, face wipes, cotton
washes across the week. wool, cotton pads and condoms.

For similar reasons opt for daily Medicines (liquid or tablet)
showers rather than daily baths
for your household. Mouthwash

Use the most bio-degradable Fat, grease and oil from cooking.
products you can find for house/ Garden chemicals, fertilisers or
car cleaning, clothes washing or weed/pest killers.
washing up. Fortunately, these
products are now offered in high Motor engine oils, anti-freeze,
street shops and supermarkets. car cleaning liquids.

Avoid overdosing of chemicals. DIY products including solvents,
Read every product label and paints, glue, white spirit,
follow the manufacturer’s paint thinners.
dosage instructions for the water
type in your area and cleaning. Dairy waste, general food waste
even if put through a waste
Spread household chores disposal unit.
involving detergents/chemicals
across the week so the plant is
not overloaded with chemicals
on any particular day. TIP

Avoid chopping and changing Opt for products which are more
cleaning products – given time the environmentally friendly and follow the
bacteria in the treatment system manufacturer’s instructions on how to
can learn to ‘live with’ a chemical dispose of it responsibly.
product but this is less likely if
products are frequently changed.
Even products labelled as flushable will not break-down
(bio-degrade) and over time the buildup will clog up the
system and even cause damage within the treatment plant.