Attach-4-Tech6-W912C324R0002-BuchananOperationMaintWastewater.pdf

UFC 3-240-03

03 October 2019

UNIFIED FACILITIES CRITERIA (UFC)

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

(O&M): WASTEWATER TREATMENT

UNIFIED FACILITIES CRITERIA (UFC)

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE (O&M) WASTEWATER TREATMENT

Any copyrighted material included in this UFC is identified at its point of use.

Use of the copyrighted material apart from this UFC must have the permission of the copyright holder.

Indicate the preparing activity beside the Service responsible for preparing the document.

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING COMMAND (Preparing Activity)

AIR FORCE CIVIL ENGINEER CENTER

Record of Changes (changes are indicated by \1\ ... /1/)

Change No. Date Location

This UFC supersedes UFC 3-240-03N, dated January 2004.

FOREWORD

The Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) system is prescribed by MIL-STD 3007 and provides planning, design, construction, sustainment, restoration, and modernization criteria, and applies to the Military Departments, the Defense Agencies, and the DoD Field Activities in accordance with USD (AT&L) Memorandum dated 29 May 2002. UFC will be used for all DoD projects and work for other customers where appropriate. All construction outside of the United States is also governed by Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA), Host Nation Funded Construction Agreements (HNFA), and in some instances, Bilateral Infrastructure Agreements (BIA).

Therefore, the acquisition team must ensure compliance with the most stringent of the UFC, the SOFA, the HNFA, and the BIA, as applicable.

UFC are living documents and will be periodically reviewed, updated, and made available to users as part of the Services’ responsibility for providing technical criteria for military construction. Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (HQUSACE), Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), and Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) are responsible for administration of the UFC system. Defense agencies should contact the preparing service for document interpretation and improvements. Technical content of UFC is the responsibility of the cognizant DoD working group. Recommended changes with supporting rationale may be sent to the respective DoD working group by submitting a Criteria Change Request (CCR) via the Internet site listed below.

UFC are effective upon issuance and are distributed only in electronic media from the following source:

• Whole Building Design Guide web site http://www.wbdg.org/ffc/dod.

Refer to UFC 1-200-01, DoD Building Code (General Building Requirements), for implementation of new issuances on projects.

AUTHORIZED BY:

GEORGE O. LEA, JR P.E. CCM

FCMAA NAC

Chief Military Engineering Branch Engineering and Construction Division

R. DAVID CURFMAN, P.E.

Chief Engineer Naval Facilities Engineering Command

NANCY J. BALKUS, P.E., SES

Deputy Director of Civil Engineers DCS Logistics, Engineering & Force Protection (HAF/A4C) HQ United States Air Force

MICHAEL McANDREW Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Facilities Management) Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Sustainment)

UNIFIED FACILITIES CRITERIA (UFC)

REVISION SUMMARY SHEET

Document: UFC 3-240-03, Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Wastewater Treatment

Superseding: UFC 3-240-03N, Wastewater Treatment System Augmenting Handbook Operation and Maintenance, dated January 2004

Description: UFC 3-240-03 provides technical requirements and guidance for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment systems.

Reasons for Document:

• The new UFC updates technical requirements and increases the use of industry standards.

• The majority of existing criteria was outdated and needed a major revision.

Impact:

• This update revises an existing Navy only UFC and unifies wastewater treatment operation and maintenance criteria across DoD. This operation and maintenance criteria will assist owners and operators with maintenance and operation of wastewater treatment systems and provide increased guidance.

Unification Issues:

AIR FORCE

• AFH 32-1290 provides additional requirements for cathodic protection systems.

• AFI 32-1062 provides additional requirements for generators.

• AFI 32-1064 provides additional requirements for electrical safe practices.

• AFI 32-1067 provides further guidance on reporting requirements.

• AFI 32-1068 provides further guidance on boiler personnel schedule requirements.

• AFI 32-1002 provides additional requirements on snow and ice control.

• AFI 32-7001 provides further guidance on reporting requirements.

ARMY

• AR 420-1 provides additional operating data requirements.

• PWTB 200-1-142 provides additional requirements for water reuse.

• TM 5-682 provides additional requirements for electrical facilities safety.

• TM 5-683 provides additional requirements for electrical interior facilities.

• TM 5-684 provides additional requirements for electrical exterior facilities.

• TM 5-685 provides additional requirements for operation, maintenance, and repair of auxiliary generators.

• PWTB 420-49-29 provides additional requirements for cathodic protection systems.

• TM 5-814-3 provides additional requirements for cold weather operation.

NAVY

• OPNAVINST 5090.1D provides Navy only requirements.

• OPNAVINST 5100.23G provides Navy only safety requirements.

• MCO P5090.2A provides Marine Corps only requirements.

This Page Intentionally Left Blank i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

1-1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

1-2 APPLICABILITY

1-3 GENERAL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

1-4 CYBERSECURITY

1-5 GLOSSARY

1-6 REFERENCES

CHAPTER 2 REGULATORY COMPLIANCE AND MONITORING

2-1 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE CRITERIA

2-1.1 Within the United States

2-1.2 Foreign Countries

2-2 FOREIGN COUNTRIES

2-2.1 Wastewater Quality Standards

2-3 SAFETY

2-4 PLUMBING

2-5 OPERATING REQUIREMENTS

2-5.1 Recordkeeping

2-6 PERMITS

2-6.1 Federal Permit Requirements

2-6.2 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

2-6.3 Operating NPDES Permit

2-6.4 Disposal Permit Options

2-6.5 Solids NPDES Permit

2-6.6 Stormwater NPDES Permit

2-7 EMERGENCY REPORTING

2-7.1 Spill Prevention and Response Plan

2-8 FACILITY OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

2-9 SAMPLING OF WASTEWATER

2-10 REPORTS

2-10.1 Capacity Analysis Report

2-10.2 Operation and Maintenance Report ii

2-10.3 Preliminary Engineering or Feasibility Report

2-11 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR SEWAGE SOLIDS

2-12 OPERATOR CERTIFICATION

2-12.1 Training for Certification

2-12.2 Obtaining Certification

2-12.3 Training for Renewal of Certification

2-13 WASTEWATER REUSE

2-13.1 Reuse Feasibility Study

2-13.2 Reuse Treatment Facilities

2-13.3 Sludge Reuse

2-13.4 Solids Definition

2-14 PROTECTION OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT

2-14.2 Pathogen And Vector Attraction Reduction

2-15 LAND APPLICATION OR DISPOSAL

2-16 PATHOGEN REDUCTION

2-17 VECTOR ATTRACTION REDUCTION

2-18 FREQUENCY OF MONITORING

2-19 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

CHAPTER 3 WASTEWATER TREATMENT

3-1 INTRODUCTION

3-2 MAINTENANCE

3-3 WASTEWATER INFLUENT CHARACTERISTICS

3-4 PRELIMINARY TREATMENT METHODS

3-4.1 Preliminary Screening

3-4.2 Grit Removal

3-5 PRIMARY TREATMENT

3-5.1 Operation

3-6 BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT

3-6.1 Biological Treatment Methods

3-7 ACTIVATED SLUDGE

3-7.1 Activated Sludge Operation

3-7.2 Activated Sludge Process Control iii

3-8 AEROBIC AND ANAEROBIC ZONE TREATMENT

3-8.1 Mixer Operation

3-8.2 Clarifier Operation

3-8.3 Nitrogen Removal Process

3-8.4 Trickling Filters and Rotating Biological Contactors

3-9 NATURAL BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS

3-9.1 Pond Operation

3-9.2 Land Application

3-10 DISINFECTION

3-10.1 Disinfection Operation

3-10.2 Ultraviolet

3-10.3 Chlorination

3-10.4 Ozone

3-10.5 Bromine Chloride and Chlorine Dioxide

3-10.6 Peracetic Acid

CHAPTER 4 SOLIDS MANAGEMENT

4-1 INTRODUCTION

4-2 MAINTENANCE

4-3 DIGESTER OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS

4-4 SLUDGE VOLUME REDUCTION

4-4.1 Operation

4-5 SLUDGE DIGESTION

4-5.1 Sludge Digestion Operations

4-6 OTHER SLUDGE STABILIZATION METHODS

4-6.1 Composting

4-6.2 Lime Stabilization

4-6.3 Thermal Stabilization

4-6.4 Sludge Drying

CHAPTER 5 CHEMICAL TREATMENT

5-1 INTRODUCTION

5-2 MAINTENANCE

5-3 OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

iv

5-3.1 pH Adjustment

5-3.2 Indoor Chemical Storage

5-3.3 Outdoor Chemical Storage

5-3.4 Cleaning Considerations

5-3.5 Alkalinity Adjustment

5-3.6 Coagulants and Phosphorus Removal

5-3.7 Aluminum Salts

5-3.8 Iron Salts

5-3.9 Polymers

5-3.10 Oxidizers

CHAPTER 6 ODOR CONTROL

6-1 MAINTENANCE

6-2 ODOR CONTROL SYSTEMS

6-3 OPERATION

6-3.1 Chemical Odor Control Systems

6-3.2 Biological Odor Control Systems

CHAPTER 7 COLD WEATHER OPERATION

7-1 INTRODUCTION

7-2 MAINTENANCE

7-3 SCREENINGS

7-4 GRIT REMOVAL

7-5 PRIMARY TREATMENT

7-5.1 Inspection

7-5.2 Biological Treatment

7-5.3 Activated Sludge

7-5.4 Biological Reaction Rates

7-5.5 Aeration Equipment

7-5.6 Clarifiers

7-5.7 Trickling Filters and Rotating Biological Contactors

7-5.8 Natural Biological System

7-5.9 Aerobic Digester

7-5.10 Anaerobic Digester v

7-6 ODOR CONTROL SYSTEM

7-7 UTILITIES

CHAPTER 8 WET WEATHER FLOW OPERATION

8-1 SCREENING PROCESS

8-2 GRIT REMOVAL PROCESS

8-3 BIOLOGICAL PROCESS

8-4 ACTIVATED SLUDGE

8-5 TRICKLING FILTERS AND ROTATING BIOLOGICAL

CONTACTORS

CHAPTER 9 UTILITIES

9-1 ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

9-1.1 Operation and Maintenance

9-2 POTABLE WATER

9-2.1 Operational and Maintenance

9-3 NATURAL GAS

9-3.1 Operational and Maintenance

9-4 CATHODIC PROTECTION

9-5 HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING

9-5.1 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Equipment

9-5.2 Operational Requirements

9-6 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

CHAPTER 10 SEPTIC SYSTEMS, GREASE TRAPS, and OIL-WATER

SEPARATORS

10-1 INTRODUCTION

10-2 MAINTENANCE

10-3 SEPTIC TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL SYSTEM

10-3.1 Domestic Wastewater Characteristics

10-3.2 Monitoring Waste Discharged to System

10-3.3 Water Conservation

10-3.4 Septic System Components

10-3.5 Septic System Failures

10-4 GREASE TRAPS

10-4.1 Configuration vi

10-4.2 Location

10-4.3 Discharges to Grease Traps

10-4.4 Maintenance Procedures

10-5 OIL/WATER SEPARATORS

10-5.1 Gravity Separators

10-5.2 Corrugated Plate Interceptors

10-5.3 Dissolved Air Flotation

10-5.4 Emulsified Oils

10-5.5 Frequency and Intensity of Flow

10-5.6 Design Capacity

10-5.7 Operational Changes

10-5.8 Contaminants in Wastewater Stream

10-5.9 Evaluation of Need for Oil-Water Separators

10-5.10 Operation and Maintenance

APPENDIX A BEST PRACTICES

A-1 PERMITS

A-2 STORMWATER NPDES PERMITS

A-3 CURRENT TRENDS AFFECTING WWTP OPERATIONS

A-3.1 Water Quality-Based Effluent Limits

A-3.2 Waste Load Allocation

A-3.3 Chemical-Specific Criteria

A-3.4 Aquatic Life Criteria

A-3.5 General Narrative Criteria

A-4 COLD WEATHER OPERATION

A-5 ODOR CONTROL SYSTEMS

A-6 CHEMICAL ODOR CONTROL SYSTEM

A-7 BIOLOGICAL ODOR CONTROL SYSTEM

A-8 MAINTENANCE

A-8.1 Predictive Maintenance

A-8.2 Vibration Testing

A-8.3 Lubrication and Wear Particle Analysis

A-8.4 Thermographic Imaging vii

A-8.5 Ultrasonic Analysis

A-8.6 Electrical Surge Testing

A-8.7 Motor Current Signature Analysis

A-8.8 Bearing Greasing

A-8.9 Severity of Service

A-8.10 Lubricants

A-8.11 Painting and Coatings

A-8.12 Corrosion

A-8.13 Maintenance Scheduling

A-9 O&M GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS

A-10 OPERATOR TRAINING

A-11 OPERATIONS OF EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS

A-11.1 Starting, Stopping, and Changing Equipment

A-11.2 Emergency Operating Requirements

A-11.3 Equipment Calibration and Field Checking

A-11.4 Sampling and Process Data Review

A-12 BEST PRACTICE REFERENCES

APPENDIX B GLOSSARY

B-1 ACRONYMS

B-2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

APPENDIX C REFERENCES

FIGURES

Figure 2-1 Residual Solids

Figure 10-1 Typical Two-Compartment Septic Tank

Figure 10-2 Process Schematic of CPI Separator

Figure 10-3 Process Schematic of Dissolved Air Flotation

Figure 10-4 Decision Tree for Pretreatment of Oily Waste

TABLES

Table 10-1 Estimated Septic Tank Pumping Frequencies in Years

Table 10-2 Septic System Failures viii

Table 10-3 Recommended Inspection Frequerncy for Oil-Water Separators 77

Table A-1 Treatment Process Components Subject to Freezing Problems . 81

Table A-2 Winter Problems with Preliminary Treatment

Table A-3 Winter Problems with Clarifiers

Table A-4 Winter Problems with Biological Systems

Table A-5 Winter Disinfection Problems

Table A-6 Winter Problems with Solids Management

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

1-1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE.

This UFC provides technical guidance and procedures for operations and maintenance (O&M) of wastewater treatment facilities.

1-2 APPLICABILITY.

This UFC applies to all service elements and contractors involved in the operation and maintenance of permanent DoD waste water treatment plants worldwide.

1-3 GENERAL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS.

Comply with UFC 1-200-01, DoD Building Code (General Building Requirements). UFC 1-200-01 provides applicability of model building codes and government-unique criteria for typical design disciplines and building systems, accessibility, antiterrorism, security, high performance and sustainability requirements, and safety. Use this UFC in addition to UFC 1-200-01 and the UFCs and government criteria referenced therein.

1-4 CYBERSECURITY.

All control systems (including systems separate from an energy management control system) must be planned, designed, acquired, executed, and maintained in accordance with UFC 4-010-06, and as required by individual Service Implementation Policy.

1-5 GLOSSARY.

Appendix B contains acronyms and definition of terms.

1-6 REFERENCES.

Appendix C contains a list of references used in this document. The publication date of the code or standard is not included in this document. Unless otherwise specified, the most recent edition of the referenced publication applies.

CHAPTER 2 REGULATORY COMPLIANCE AND MONITORING

2-1 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE CRITERIA.

DoD wastewater systems must achieve, maintain, and monitor compliance with applicable environmental requirements and monitor these environmental requirements worldwide. Operate and maintain wastewater treatment systems in accordance with the requirements of applicable federal, state and local government agencies or overseas equivalent.

2-1.1 Within the United States.

For Installations located in the United States and its territories and possessions the wastewater system must comply with the following criteria precedence:

a. State wastewater or local regulations for the project location;

b. DoDI 4715.06;

c. Navy Only: OPNAVINST 5090.1D and MCO P5090.2A;

d. Additions to the above criteria as indicated in this UFC;

e. IPSDC;

f. WEF MOP 11; and

g. Refer to Appendix A for guidance.

2-1.2 Foreign Countries.

For Installations located outside of the United States and its territories and possessions the wastewater system must comply with the following criteria precedence:

a. The Forward of this UFC (All construction outside of the United States is also governed by Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA), Host Nation Funded Construction Agreements (HNFA), and in some instances, Bilateral Infrastructure Agreements (BIA));

b. Final Governing Standards (FGS);

c. DoDI 4715.05 and DoD 4715.05-G, Overseas Environmental Baseline Guidance Document

d. Navy Only: OPNAVINST 5090.1D and MCO P5090.2A;

e. Additions to the above criteria as indicated in this UFC;

f. IPSDC;

g. WEF MOP 11; and

h. Refer to Appendix A for guidance.

2-2 FOREIGN COUNTRIES.

DoD 4715.05-G, Overseas Environmental Baseline Guideline Document (OEBGD), applies when there are no Final Governing Standards (FGS) in place. Therefore, in foreign countries this UFC will be used for DoD projects to the extent that it is allowed by and does not conflict with the applicable international agreements and the applicable FGS or OEBGD.

2-2.1 Wastewater Quality Standards.

DoD wastewater systems must achieve, maintain, and monitor compliance with applicable environmental requirements and monitor these environmental requirements worldwide.

2-3 SAFETY.

All DoD facilities must comply with DoDI 6055.1, DoDI 4715.1E, and applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety and health standards.

For the Navy, also use OPNAVINST 5100.23G.

2-4 PLUMBING.

UFC 3-420-01 adopted the use of the International Plumbing Code (IPC) to comply with Public Law 104-113. Refer to UFC 3-420-01 for modifications to the IPC.

2-5 OPERATING REQUIREMENTS.

Wastewater treatment plant systems must operate within their approved permits and with federal, state, and local requirements or overseas equivalent. Operations and management staff at wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are expected to understand, comply with these requirements and inform the Installation Environmental Program staff of any problems that may affect compliance.

2-5.1 Recordkeeping.

Equipment maintenance and repairs records are used for maintenance planning and scheduling to ensure that each piece of equipment is properly maintained to ensure it is reliable for the wastewater treatment process. All maintenance and repairs for each piece of equipment must be captured in a formal method to allow for an operator in the future to review the equipment history. The most common and effective way is to use a computerized maintenance management system.

The records for each piece of equipment can be used to make decisions on the repairs and replacement of the equipment. Such decisions look at the age of the equipment, the amount of time spent maintaining and repairing the equipment, and the cost of repairing and maintaining the equipment.

2-6 PERMITS.

Permits are issued for the construction, modification, discharge of treated effluent, discharge of stormwater runoff, and solids management practices. These permits may be issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state, and local governments.

In some cases, permits may be required from all three levels of government.

Coordinate with the Installation Environmental Program staff during the permitting process.

2-6.1 Federal Permit Requirements.

Permits under Part 503.3(a), the requirements in Part 503 may be implemented through:

a. permits issued to treatment works treating domestic sewage by EPA or by states with an EPA approved solids management program; and

b. permits issued under Subtitle C of the Solid Waste Disposal Act; Part C of the Safe Drinking Water Act; the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972; or the Clean Air Act.

Treatment works treating domestic sewage submit a permit application to the approved state program, or, if there is no such program, to the EPA Regional Sludge Coordinator.

Direct Enforceability under Part 503.3(b), the requirements of Part 503 automatically apply and are directly enforceable even when no permit has been issued.

2-6.2 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 40, Part 122 describes the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program. The NPDES permit program has separate regulations found in 40 CFR 125, 40 CFR 129, 40 CFR 133, 40 CFR 136, 40 CFR 400 through 460, and 40 CFR 503. When the EPA has designated authority to an individual state, Federal law allows these individual states to have more stringent requirements. WWTP owners or owner’s designated representative needs to know if the EPA has delegated permitting authority to their state.

2-6.2.1 NPDES Permit Compliance.

Failing to comply with the NPDES permit may result in fines and other penalties. In some cases, it may even result in criminal prosecution. Since the NPDES program relies on self-reporting for implementation, EPA places special emphasis on timely and complete reporting. Enforcement actions are often swift and severe for being late with the monthly operating reports or for failing to report violations.

Exceedance of water quality limits will also draw regulatory attention and possible enforcement action. However, proactive planning prior to beginning the permit renewal process can reduce the likelihood of enforcement actions. In most states, the permitting agency may establish water parameters that the WWTP is not currently meeting. The permitting agency and WWTP owner or owner’s designated representative should work together to determine a date when the parameter becomes effective in the future. This allows the WWTP time to upgrade or change the process to meet the parameters.

2-6.2.1.1 Negotiation of Effluent Limits.

Careful review by the discharger of the specific basis used for the water quality-based effluent limits is advisable. In many cases, the basis used in the development of the effluent limits is open to negotiation. Address effluent limits during the permit renewal process.

2-6.2.2 NPDES Permit Renewal.

NPDES permits require periodic renewal. The application and renewal of the permit is to be completed by the Installation as they may have different departments applying for permits. Permits may be modified by regulators prior to the normal permit renewal periods. Permit renewal applications need to be submitted 180 days (about 6 months) before the expiration date. If the existing permit is being violated regularly, the WWTP may need to develop a Wastewater Master Plan with a list of plant improvements and costs to bring the WWTP back into compliance with the discharge permit limits or as required by the permitting agency.

2-6.3 Operating NPDES Permit.

An operating NPDES permit is required before a WWTP can begin operating. An operating NPDES permit may include topics such as identifying the owner, describing the treatment process, describing the discharge location, frequency, and limits, and contain specific and general conditions. The owner is required to meet the discharge limits stated in the operating NPDES permit. The WWTP operator is responsible for keeping a copy of the permit on file at the WWTP. An operating NPDES permit is typically combined to contain the Federal, state, and local regulations and standards in a single document for the WWTP. In addition to treated wastewater, operating NPDES permits may address stormwater and other disposal options. When the EPA has designated authority, the state also may establish groundwater monitoring or discharge requirements. For example, disposal of treated effluent to the subsurface will require an Underground Injection Control permit from the state as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Note: For the Army, AR 420-1 provides additional operating data requirements.

Note: For the Air Force, AFI 32-7001 and AFI 32-1067 provide further guidance on reporting requirements.

2-6.3.1 Licensing and Staff Requirements.

The operating NPDES permit and applicable regulatory requirements determine the licensing and staffing requirements. Many states require that the chief operator be certified to complete the reports that are necessary to comply with state and federal water pollution control laws and regulations. Some facilities are required to have a certified operator on shift work when the chief operator is not on site. In some locations, all operators may require certification for the operation of a treatment plant. The EPA has stated that it would like to have all plants operated by qualified personnel;

certification is a method of demonstrating an operator's level of qualification. Failure to have the correct number and level of certified operators can be considered a compliance violation.

2-6.3.2 WWTP Modifications.

An operating NPDES permit is not a construction permit. The EPA requires a modification to the operating NPDES permit when there is a significant change in the operation of the WWTP. In some states, an owner may construct or modify a facility, but it is a violation to place the modified facility in operation until a valid operating permit is obtained. Other states limit all construction activities until the changes or modifications are approved. Coordinate permit requirements with the Installation Environmental Program staff.

2-6.4 Disposal Permit Options.

Each Installation is responsible for disposal of waste such as solids, screenings, and grit in accordance with the approved WWTP permits. Treated effluent that is entirely disposed into the groundwater or onto land application sites does not need an operating NPDES permit from EPA to discharge, but it may be subject to NPDES permits for stormwater or solids.

2-6.5 Solids NPDES Permit.

Residual solids management has received special attention under 40 CFR 503. Solids management is typically addressed as part of the operating NPDES permit. However, a solids NPDES permit may still be required.

2-6.6 Stormwater NPDES Permit.

Each Installation is responsible for stormwater state management per the applicable permits. WWTPs that treat more than 1 million gallons per day (mgd) or are equal to or larger than 5 acres are included in the stormwater NPDES permitting program as a categorical industrial facility. Although stormwater could be included in the operating permit described above, many facilities obtain a general stormwater NPDES permit.

This permit is maintained separately from the operating permit.

2-7 EMERGENCY REPORTING.

Emergency failures or spills typically require that the appropriate agencies be notified within 24 hours. Emergency reporting requirements should be included in the WWTP Operation and Maintenance Manual and displayed in obvious locations. Federal, State and Local governments may be involved with reporting emergency failures or spills.

2-7.1 Spill Prevention and Response Plan.

A stormwater NPDES permit typically requires best management practices and includes a spill prevention and response plan.

2-8 FACILITY OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL.

The WWTP develops and updates the facility operations and maintenance manual.

This manual includes a sampling and testing procedures required for day-to-day operations, reporting requirements, license requirements, and operating instructions (both normal operation and emergency operation). The operating instructions include single line drawings as applicable. Include maintenance and regulatory compliance requirements.

Retain shop drawings, catalogue cut sheets, and any other equipment information.

2-9 SAMPLING OF WASTEWATER.

A sampling and analysis program needs to be conducted as required by the NPDES operating permit. Typically, if a well-executed sampling plan is implemented, the process monitoring, and control program is more effective. Sampling is conducted for compliance with legal requirements, process monitoring and control, and historical data collection.

The NPDES operating permit’s effluent limits are evaluated and monitored for compliance by sampling. Each permit specifies the sampling location, type, and frequency; analyses to be performed at each sample location; and frequency of reporting the results to the regulatory agency.

2-10 REPORTS.

The WWTP owner is responsible for ensuring all reporting requirements are completed by the chief operator or designated certified operator.

2-10.1 Capacity Analysis Report.

The Capacity Analysis Report documents the predicted future flows and loads within the treatment facility and evaluates the capacity of existing unit processes to reliably treat those loads for the next permitting cycle. The historical flows and the treatment performance of the preceding 5 years need to be analyzed. The carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (CBOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) loading (in pounds per day) also need to be verified. Population, flow, and load projections are then made to estimate what future loads will be, based on historical growth trends. The capacity of each unit process needs to be determined. These capacity assessments may already have been done for past renewals. However, the capacity rating of each process needs to be checked against the latest loadings and flow.

Use a 5-year period for future projections. Include future projects and realignment decisions when making future projections. If the plant is undersized, an expansion needs to be initiated and a Preliminary Engineering Report for improvements developed.

Higher discharge rates also will precipitate additional permit application requirements to address anti-degradation issues.

2-10.2 Operation and Maintenance Report.

The Operation and Maintenance Report reviews plant operations data over the last permit cycle to evaluate needed improvements to the facility. Any upsets or spills need to be reviewed to determine the cause and possible solution. Some water quality exceedances may be a result of operation practices and need to be reviewed. The condition of the facilities is evaluated, such as the need for painting and other routine maintenance. Some needs may require changes to the process or construction approval. However, not every maintenance item needs to be reported to the agencies.

Confirmation from the agency on which items need permitting is recommended after the Operation and Maintenance Report is completed.

2-10.3 Preliminary Engineering or Feasibility Report.

Use the Preliminary Engineering or Feasibility Report when modifications to the WWTP are required. This is a preliminary design study that will outline what changes are required to attain or maintain compliance. Typically, this report will contain a summary of the future flows and loads to be treated from the Capacity Analysis Report, a review of any alternative evaluations used to select the appropriate treatment technologies, and a conceptual-level design for upgraded facilities. A professional engineer sizes and plans for appropriate process changes. The Preliminary Engineering Report is submitted as part of the permit application renewal. Some states may require final construction drawings and specifications before approving the changes, whereas others may issue a construction permit based solely on the Preliminary Engineering Report.

2-11 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR SEWAGE SOLIDS.

Reporting requirements for these solids are found in Part 503.18 for land application and Part 503.28 for surface disposal. These requirements apply to Class I solids management facilities and to WWTPs with a design flow rate equal to or greater than 1 mgd or that serve 10,000 or more people. Submit to the permitting authority the records they are required to keep as “preparers” of biosolids, owner of surface disposal sites.

There are no reporting requirements associated with the use or disposal of domestic septage.

2-12 OPERATOR CERTIFICATION.

Operator certification is a process by which an individual is awarded a certificate from the state water quality regulatory agency for meeting specific criteria associated with the operation of wastewater treatment plants. Most states require that the responsible wastewater treatment plant operator possess a current state operator certification for the plant to meet the state’s operating permit requirements. This certification process varies from state to state. Most states have different levels of certification that depend upon plant complexity and size or individual expertise. Certification requirements are usually contained in the permit or in state regulations. Certified operators demonstrate a specific level of proficiency in their selected field.

2-12.1 Training for Certification.

Additionally, operators may be required to attend classes or obtain a required amount of training prior to obtaining certification. Operators may contact state agencies to obtain specific information about training requirements for their certification

Note: For the Air Force, AFI 32-1067 provides additional requirements regarding operator training and certification.

2-12.2 Obtaining Certification.

Each state regulatory agency has a program for achieving certification. Operators should contact the state agency where the WWTP is located to obtain specific information about requirements and reciprocity programs. Although reciprocity exists between many states, certifications may not be transferable between some states. A certified operator may be able to apply for certification in other states that have reciprocity with the state issuing an operator certification. State regulatory agencies can help with reciprocity of certifications.

2-12.3 Training for Renewal of Certification.

States may require continual training by the operator to maintain their certification.

Operators are required to review and complete the required amount of training to maintain their certification in the time periods set by their state regulations.

2-13 WASTEWATER REUSE.

Several states and communities are promoting the reuse of wastewater as a beneficial way of reducing both drinking water demands and wastewater discharge to the environment. The most common reuse projects involve using treated wastewater for irrigation purposes (e.g., golf courses). Other uses of water may include residential irrigation, fire protection, landscape features (e.g., ponds and fountains), and industrial supply. Generally, a project is only considered a reuse project if the reclaimed effluent replaces drinking water demand. Groundwater discharge is sometimes referred to as "groundwater recharge" and may be considered reuse if it is used to replenish the drinking water supply. However, contamination of the drinking water supply is a concern, and the discharge may have as many disincentives as incentives. Most land application projects that rely on groundwater infiltration for effluent disposal would be considered disposal projects, not reuse projects. Any disposal to natural surface waters will be considered an NPDES discharge and will be subject to all applicable rules.

2-13.1 Reuse Feasibility Study.

An engineering study is required to determine the actual water usage for a given reuse project. For example, an irrigator will not need water in wet periods or winter. The

WWTP may therefore need to dispose of all its effluent for extended periods of time.

The permit requirements need to be flexible to accommodate such seasonal effects.

The objective of the engineering study is to determine a conceptual reuse system, including customers, available capacity, the size of the pipeline, pumps, and storage.

This study is not a design-level project. Further design and permitting is required to implement a project.

2-13.2 Reuse Treatment Facilities.

Additional treatment processes may be needed to provide reuse-quality water. If there is a possibility of public contact with the water, provide high-level disinfection (<20 most probable number per 100 milliliters [mL]) for the effluent. Filtration before disinfection or discharge to an irrigation system also would be likely. If only a portion of the effluent flow is used for reuse, then these additional facilities would need to be sized accordingly and would treat only a side stream. An engineering feasibility study would need to determine the size and layout of these treatment facilities.

Note: For the Army, PWTB 200-1-142 provides additional requirements for water reuse.

2-13.3 Sludge Reuse.

Biosolids have beneficial plant nutrients and soil-conditioning properties. However, biosolids also may contain heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, protozoa, parasites, and other microorganisms that cause disease. If improperly treated and applied, they may also attract nuisance vectors such as insects and rodents. EPA actively promotes management practices that provide for the beneficial reuse of biosolids while maintaining or improving environmental quality and protecting human health. However, while the Part 503 regulations encourage the beneficial reuse of biosolids, they do not mandate it; traditional disposal methods, such as landfilling, may still be selected.

The use and disposal of biosolids, including domestic septage, are regulated under 40 CFR 503. This regulation, promulgated on February 19, 1993, was issued under the authority of the Clean Water Act, as amended in 1977, and the 1976 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. For additional guidance on the Part 503 regulations, refer to EPA/625/R-92/013.

2-13.4 Solids Definition.

The Part 503 regulations promulgated the word “sludge” to describe a variety of solids residuals from wastewater treatment processes. The wastewater treatment industry and regulatory agencies have recently tried to minimize the use of the word “sludge” because the term is too general, and its negative connotations do not accurately reflect the industry’s goal: to promote the beneficial reuse of properly treated wastewater solids as useful soil amendments for agricultural users and the general population. In keeping with current industry practices, this document avoids the word sludge except when directly referred to in Part 503 regulations or a widely accepted process name, such as the “activated sludge process.” Figure 2-1 shows a secondary wastewater treatment plant and identifies the terminology used by industry and this document to replace the word sludge.

The primary solids referred to in Figure 2-1 are those derived from primary treatment processes. Solids drawn from the secondary treatment system are referred to as “waste activated sludge” or “biosolids.” The word biosolids refers to the residual treatment bacteria and inert solids contained in the biological treatment process. Solids that have undergone treatment for beneficial reuse generally are referred to as “residual solids” or classified according to their level of treatment, such as “Class A Solids.” In some cases, treatment facilities do not further treat primary or secondary solids and dispose of these in a permitted landfill; in this case, the residuals are referred to as “sludge,” meaning the product has not received treatment to reduce pathogens or vector attraction. The phrase “other residual solids” refers to the dense, grit-like solids that accumulate in process tanks and are removed when the tanks are periodically emptied and cleaned.

Figure 2-1 Residual Solids

2-14 PROTECTION OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT.

In the judgment of the EPA administrator, Part 503 protects public health and the environment through requirements designed to reduce the potential for contact with the disease-bearing microorganisms (pathogens) and heavy metals in biosolids applied to the land or placed on a surface disposal site. These requirements are divided into the following categories:

• Requirements designed to control and reduce pathogens in solids

• Requirements designed to reduce the ability of the solids to attract vectors (rodents, birds, insects, and other living organisms that can transport solids pathogens away from the land application or surface disposal site)

• Requirements designed to limit the amount of heavy metals in solids applied to land or placed on a surface disposal site

Subpart D of Part 503 includes both performance- and technology-based requirements that aim to reduce pathogens and vector attraction. It is designed to provide a more flexible approach than Part 257, which required solids to be treated by specific listed or approved treatment technologies. Under Part 503, treatment works may continue to use the same processes they used under Part 257, but they can modify conditions and combine processes with each other if the treated solids meet the applicable requirements.

2-14.2 Pathogen and Vector Attraction Reduction.

Part 503.15 covers the applicability of the pathogen and vector attraction reduction requirements. The Subpart D requirements apply to solids (both bulk solids and solids that are sold or given away in a bag or other container for application to the land) and domestic septage applied to the land or placed on a surface disposal site. The regulated community includes anyone who generates or prepares solids for application to the land, as well as those who apply it to the land, including anyone who:

• Generates solids that are land-applied or placed on a surface disposal site

• Derives a material from solids

• Applies solids to the land

• Owns or operates a surface disposal site

2-15 LAND APPLICATION OR DISPOSAL.

Solids cannot be applied to land or placed on a surface disposal site unless they have met the two basic types of requirements in Subpart D: pathogen and vector attraction reduction requirements. These two types of requirements are separated in Part 503, which allows flexibility in how they are achieved. Demonstrate compliance with both types of requirements separately. Therefore, demonstration that a requirement for reduced vector attraction has been met does not imply that a pathogen reduction requirement also has been met, and vice versa.

2-16 PATHOGEN REDUCTION.

Sewage Sludge [503.32(a) and (b)]. The pathogen reduction requirements for sewage sludge are divided into two categories: Class A and Class B. These requirements use a combination of technological and microbiological requirements to ensure reduction of pathogens. The implicit goal of the Class A requirements is to reduce the pathogens in sewage sludge (including enteric viruses, pathogenic bacteria, and viable helminth ova) to below detectable levels. The implicit goal of the Class B requirements is to ensure that pathogens have been reduced to levels that are unlikely to pose a threat to public health and the environment under the specific-use conditions. For Class B solids that are applied to land, site restrictions are imposed to minimize the potential for human and animal contact for a period of time following land application until environmental factors have further reduced pathogens. Class B solids cannot be sold or given away in bags or other containers for application to the land. There are no site restrictions for Class A solids.

Domestic Septage [503.32(c)]. Domestic septage is a form of sewage sludge.

Domestic septage is a liquid or solid material that is removed from a septic tank, cesspool, portable toilet, type III marine sanitation device, or similar system that only receives domestic septage (household, noncommercial, and non-industrial sewage).

The requirements for domestic septage vary, depending on how it is used or disposed.

Domestic septage applied to a public contact site, lawn, or home garden must meet the same requirements as other forms of sewage sludge. Separate, less complicated requirements for pathogen reduction apply to domestic septage applied to agricultural land, forests, or reclamation sites. These requirements include site restrictions to reduce the potential for human contact and to allow for environmental attenuation or pH adjustment with site restrictions only on harvesting crops. No pathogen requirements apply if domestic septage is placed on a surface disposal site.

2-17 VECTOR ATTRACTION REDUCTION.

Subpart D specifies 12 options to demonstrate reduced vector attraction. Eight of the options apply to sewage sludges that have been treated in some way to reduce vector attraction (e.g., aerobic or anaerobic digestion, composting, alkali addition, and drying).

These options consist of operating conditions or tests to demonstrate that vector attraction has been reduced in the treated solids. Three options cover methods for injection or incorporating solids into the soil to reduce vector attraction.

One option is a requirement to demonstrate reduced vector attraction in domestic septage through elevated pH. This option applies only to domestic septage.

2-18 FREQUENCY OF MONITORING.

Sewage Sludge [503.16(a) and 503.26(a)]. The Class A and Class B pathogen requirements and the first eight vector attraction reduction options (the treatment-related methods) all involve some form of monitoring. The minimum frequency of monitoring for these requirements is given in Part 503.16(a) for land application and Part 503.26(a) for surface disposal. The frequency depends on the amount of solids used or disposed of annually. The larger the amount used or disposed of, the more frequently monitoring is required.

Domestic Septage [503.16(b) and 503.26(b)]. One of the options that can be used for demonstrating both pathogen reduction and vector attraction reduction in domestic septage is to elevate pH to >12 for 30 minutes without the addition of more alkali. When this option is used, monitor each container of domestic septage (e.g., each tank truck load) applied to the land or placed on a surface disposal site for pH.

2-19 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS.

Recordkeeping requirements are covered in Part 503.17 for land application and Part

503.27 for surface disposal. Records are required for both sewage sludge and domestic septage. Retain all records for 5 years except when the cumulative pollutant loading rates in Part 503 Subpart B (Land Application) are used. In that case, keep certain records indefinitely. Some records must be reported to the permitting authority.

• Land Application: Keep records to confirm that the solids meet the applicable pollutant limits, management practices, one of the pathogen requirements, one of the vector attraction reduction requirements, and where applicable, the site restrictions associated with land application of Class B biosolids. When bulk solids are applied to land, both the person preparing the solids for land application and the person applying them must keep records. The person applying solids that are sold or given away does not have to keep records.

• Surface Disposal: When solids are placed on a surface disposal site, the owner of the surface disposal site must keep records. In the case of domestic septage applied to agricultural land, forest, or a reclamation site or placed on a surface disposal site, the person applying the domestic septage. The owner of the surface disposal site may be subject to pathogen-related recordkeeping requirements, depending on which vector attraction reduction option was used.

Certification Statement: In every case, recordkeeping involves signing a certification statement that the requirement has been met. Parts 503.17 and 503.37 of the regulation contain the required certification language.

CHAPTER 3 WASTEWATER TREATMENT

3-1 INTRODUCTION.

For an operator to understand a wastewater treatment plant, it is important to have an accurate characterization of the wastewater influent. The wastewater characterization provides the operator with information to control the wastewater treatment processes.

There are typically two types of influent water: domestic and industrial. Domestic wastewater comes from residential units such as single-family households, condominiums, apartments, cottages, or resorts. Industrial wastewater comes from non-residential sources such as institutional, commercial, or industrial facilities.

3-2 MAINTENANCE.

The maintenance requirements for preliminary treatment varies, depending on the type of equipment used. Recommended maintenance should be completed by operators and maintenance staff to maintain all warranties and performance guarantees. Refer to the equipment manufacturers operation manual and operate preliminary treatment equipment in accordance with manufacturers recommendations and all NPDES permits.

3-3 WASTEWATER INFLUENT CHARACTERISTICS.

Nonresidential sources vary, depending on the type of establishment. There are differences in waste-generating sources present, water usage rates, and other considerations. The characteristics for existing nonresidential buildings are characterized by sampling and metering the discharge wastewater. For new nonresidential establishments, use available characterization data from similar facilities.

Refer to EPA/625/R-00/008 for typical loadings and concentrations.

Higher than typical ammonia influent levels may occur at some WWTPs because of water conservation programs. Higher than normal influent ammonia levels will require operational adjustments and additional process control monitoring.

3-4 PRELIMINARY TREATMENT METHODS.

The preliminary treatment processes are intended to remove large solids and abrasive material from the influent wastewater prior to damaging equipment or clogging piping.

The failure of any of these units will affect downstream processes in the wastewater treatment plant. Therefore, it is important to keep the preliminary treatment units working as effectively as possible.

Refer to Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants, Volume 1, Chapter 4 for additional guidance on preliminary treatment.

3-4.1 Preliminary Screening.

The screening system at a wastewater treatment plant is a system that is either machine run or a completely manual operation. The purpose of the screening system is to remove material that can damage equipment and clog piping in the wastewater treatment plant.

1-1.1.1 Screening Operation.

Manual bar screens and mechanical bars screens both operate in a manner to remove large material. Both come with different spacing between the screen’s bars. The smaller the spacing between the screen bars the more material that will be captured by the screen.

3-4.1.1.1 Manual Bar Screens.

Inspect the manual bar screen for spacing between bars, damage to the bars, and any loose fasteners. Manual bar screens are manually cleaned with a tool that allows the operator to pull the captured material off the bar screen.

3-4.1.1.2 Mechanical Screens.

Mechanical screens normally operate in a fully automatic mode. Some newer designs of mechanical screens function with the differential level as the primary means of starting the mechanical screen with the timer as a backup. Determine the correct differential level for the mechanical screen and timers to prevent surging flow through the mechanical screen and wastewater treatment plant.

3-4.1.2 Screening Maintenance.

The maintenance for manual bar screens and mechanical screens are widely different due to the simplicity of manual bar screens and the complexity of mechanical screens.

3-4.1.2.1 Manual Bar Screens.

The maintenance requirements for manual bars screens is limited to periodic inspections of the bar screen with the channel drained and cleaned.

3-4.2 Grit Removal.

Wastewater flow contains material of fine, discrete, non-biodegradable particles called grit. The sources of grit include sand, cinders, rocks, coffee grounds, and cigarette filter tips. The purpose of a grit system is to remove material that can damage equipment and clog piping in the wastewater treatment plant. If grit is not removed during preliminary treatment the grit will accumulate in the bottom of aeration tanks, digesters, and sludge holding tanks which reduces the usable volume in the tanks. Typical grit parameters can be found in WEF MOP11, Table 18.1.

In an aerated grit removal system, the amount of air can also be changed. These changes impact the amount of grit that is removed.