Water & Wastewater Operations

Water

Water operations involve the treatment, storage, and distribution process required to meet Approval to Operate permits granted by Nova Scotia Environment.

Treatment consists of adding chemicals to clarify water, followed by filtration to clean it. Finally, the water is disinfected before being stored or distributed. All water must meet strict maximum acceptable concentrations (MAC) for a host of chemical and organic constituents. These regulations are mandated by legislation.

Wastewater

Wastewater is the mixture of liquid and solid materials that residents and businesses flush down toilets and empty down sinks and drains.

Treatment of wastewater is an essential process that prevents contamination and the destruction of our waterways, drinking water resources and natural water resources. Our treatment facilities enhance the organic decomposition processes which take place in nature. This is performed by a combination of physical, biological, and chemical treatment stages.

One of the principle objectives of wastewater treatment is to limit the abnormal amount of dissolved oxygen uptake being released into water (created by natural bacteria feeding on organic material).  

Other objectives of wastewater treatment include the removal of objectionable constituents including nutrients and heavy metals.

Operations

• Laboratory Analyses – wastewater and water samples are collected for analysis. Data generated is used for process control, report generation, and to ensure that plants are meeting effluent restrictions as specified by the various regulatory agencies.

• Training – regulatory guidelines increase the need for technologically advanced treatment facilities. As a result, constant training and upgrading is carried out.

• Safety – all staff are responsible for providing a safe work environment. Each treatment facility is equipped with all necessary safety equipment and supplies.

• Managed Maintenance – like any industry, unexpected equipment failures and shutdowns can be costly and affect quality. A preventative maintenance program is in place to prevent the likelihood of such a failure.