Wastewater Treatment Facilities
According to the Government website, there are over 9,000 sewage treatment plants across the UK. Every day in the UK, about 347,000 kilometres of sewers collect over 11 billion metres of wastewater. Wastewater treatment facilities play a key role in protecting public health. These facilities process a mix of organic and inorganic materials, which release gases during treatment. Monitoring these gases is important for safety of the workers on site and the company’s reputation.
Below are the five key gases to monitor and why they matter:
Methane (CH₄)
Methane forms during the anaerobic digestion of organic matter. It can be a renewable energy source but is also highly flammable.
Why monitor it?
Accumulated methane in enclosed spaces can cause explosions.
Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, so controlling it reduces climate impact.
Monitoring methods:
Infrared gas analysers for precise, continuous measurements.
Portable gas detectors for confined spaces.
Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S)
This toxic gas smells like rotten eggs and forms under anaerobic conditions, such as in sewers and sludge tanks.
Why monitor it?
High levels can harm workers or even cause death.
It corrodes metal and concrete, leading to expensive repairs.
Its smell impacts nearby communities.
Monitoring methods:
Electrochemical sensors for real-time detection.
Continuous air monitoring systems for early alerts.
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
Carbon dioxide is produced during aerobic decomposition of organic materials. It’s less dangerous than other gases but can pose risks in confined spaces.
Why monitor it?
Ensures safe conditions in poorly ventilated areas.
Tracks aerobic digestion efficiency.
Reducing CO₂ helps meet environmental goals.
Monitoring methods:
Infrared sensors for continuous monitoring.
Portable CO₂ meters for quick checks.
Ammonia (NH₃)
Ammonia is released during the breakdown of nitrogen-rich materials. It’s a key factor in biological treatment processes.
Why monitor it?
Optimal levels improve treatment efficiency.
High ammonia levels harm aquatic life if untreated water is discharged.
Monitoring ensures compliance with discharge regulations.
Monitoring methods:
Photoionisation detectors for air detection.
Colorimetric gas tubes for simple measurements.
Oxygen (O₂)
Oxygen supports biological processes and indicates treatment performance, especially in aerobic systems.
Why monitor it?
Ensures effective aerobic digestion of organic matter.
Prevents anaerobic conditions, which produce harmful gases like H₂S.
Optimising oxygen saves energy in aeration systems.
Monitoring methods:
Dissolved oxygen probes for water measurements.
Oxygen sensors for confined spaces.
Conclusion
Gas monitoring is vital for safe, efficient, and sustainable wastewater treatment. Key gases like methane, hydrogen sulphide, carbon dioxide, ammonia, and oxygen require constant tracking.
Using Rockall Safety’s gas detection range ensures facilities stay safe, compliant, and environmentally friendly. Proactive monitoring helps create safer, greener wastewater systems.
Recommended Products
Our Fixed Gas experts have gathered some products that they recommend, but if you would like further information, or a more tailored systems, give us a call today.
Crowcon Xgard
Honeywell Series 3000
The Honeywell Series 3000 is ideal due to its reliable detection of hazardous gases like hydrogen sulphide and methane. With an explosion-proof design and durable housing, it performs well in corrosive, humid environments. Its ease of installation and maintenance ensures continuous protection with minimal downtime.
MSA Ultima X5000
The MSA Ultima X5000 is ideal for wastewater facilities due to its high accuracy in detecting hazardous gases like hydrogen sulphide and methane. Its durable, corrosion-resistant design makes it perfect for harsh, wet environments. With features like advanced diagnostics, easy calibration, and real-time data monitoring, it ensures reliable protection and operational efficiency in wastewater treatment plants.
