LESSON 1
INTRODUCTION TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT
Section I. WASTEWATER FUNDAMENTALS
1-1.
GENERAL
Wastewater is used water (liquid) and solids that flow to and through the
wastewater collection system. A wastewater collection system consists of all facilities
for the collection, transportation, pumping, treatment, and disposal of wastewater.
a. Domestic wastewater or sanitary domestic wastewater is the "used" water
originating from businesses, houses, and installations and similar buildings inhabited by
people.
b. Storm drainage consists of rain water, street wash, and flood waters.
c. Combined wastewater is domestic wastewater mixed with storm drainage.
d. Industrial wastewater is the wastewater discharged from an industrial
process, such as dyeing or papermaking.
1-2.
NEED FOR SAFE DISPOSAL OF WASTEWATER
a. Safe disposal of all human and domestic wastes is necessary to protect the
health of the individual (soldier or civilian), family, and community and to prevent waste
products in our environment. Wastewater may contain fecal matter, industrial wastes
such as oils and emulsions, alkalis and strong acids), organic material, and other
dissolved solids. For satisfactory results, such wastes must be disposed of so that they
will NOT:
(1) Contaminate any drinking water supply by such means as biological
organisms, radiological and chemical agents, or physical material.
(2) Give rise to a public health hazard by being accessible to insects,
rodents, or other possible carriers that may come into contact with food or drinking
water.
(3)
Give rise to public health hazards by being accessible to children.
(4) Violate international, national, or local laws or regulations governing
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