ASSET SERVICES

Protocol: CP013
RECYCLED WATER USE IN DECS SCHOOLS AND PRESCHOOLS
This protocol provides guidance on the irrigation of DECS Schools and Preschools with recycled water
(treated effluent).
The Policy Reference for this matter is the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling 2006 (this
document now supersedes the South Australian Reclaimed Water Guidelines)
For all other information regarding Asset Services go to: http://www.decs.sa.gov.au/assetservices

For the purpose of this protocol, recycled water refers to water which has been
derived from sewerage systems (including Community Wastewater Management
Systems-CWMS) and treated to a standard which is satisfactory for its intended use.
Background
The current SA Water restrictions have resulted in many DECS sites considering water recycling
schemes, particularly involving recycled water and the use of treated effluent from SA Water
Wastewater Treatment Plants and Local Council schemes.
DECS is particularly concerned with ensuring the health and safety of students, employees and
visitors (including contractors and volunteers) on DECS sites. The use of recycled (treated effluent)
can have risks associated with potential contamination from litter, pathogens, oil and other chemicals,
if there is a breakdown of the treatment system, or cross contamination of potable (drinking) water
supplies.
DECS has specific requirements regarding the use of recycled water on its sites including an approval
process outlined below. DECS must ensure that any potential risks associated with water
contamination are minimised. This will be given priority over any advantages that recycled water may
offer.
Approvals and Procedures
Do not proceed with a detailed investigation until you are sure that:
o The use of recycled water is acceptable to the site and community.
o The site is potentially suitable for the intended use.
o Recycled water is suitable for the purpose required. (High salinity or other water quality
issues may preclude irrigation of certain crops).
o An alternative source of water is available for times when the recycled water may be
unavailable.
No DECS site will be supplied with recycled water unless a signed supply agreement is in place
between the water supplier and the Minister for Education or delegate.
DECS has provided a template agreement for councils and other relevant authorities suppling
recycled water to schools for irrigation purposes to the Local Government Association which is
available from your local Council.
Approval for the scheme shall also be obtained from the SA Department of Health and the SA
Environmental Protection Authority. Any conditions stipulated shall be adhered to. SA Water
approval may also be required.
SA Dept of Health approval means the approval for installation of the system and or the use of
recycled water from the person holding delegated authority from the Minister responsible for the
administration of the Public and Environmental Health (Waste Control) Regulations 1995 under the
Public and Environmental Health Act 1987.
Recycled water quality, the type of irrigation, scheme installation and irrigation management shall
be in accordance with the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling 2006.

The user is expected to confirm current validity by going to

www.decs.sa.gov.au/assetservices

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Technical Information
Recycled water shall only be used for irrigation purposes on DECS sites. However, harvested
rainwater from site roofs can provide a suitable alternative water source for other non-drinking
purposes such as; toilet flushing, laundering, hot water systems and irrigation. Contact Asset
Services for more information.
All irrigation and water quality requirements of Recycled water use on DECS sites must follow the
Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling 2006.
It is a DECS requirement that only water of a quality suitable for Unrestricted Access and
Irrigation (see Table 3.8 - Treatment processes and on-site controls for designated uses of
recycled water from treated sewage from the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling 2006) may
be used in above ground irrigation systems. Water of a lesser quality must only be used for subsurface irrigation systems (not sprayed) and subject to adequate licensing and controls to ensure
that any risks to students, staff and the public are fully considered.
An ideal site for irrigation by recycled water is one that:
o has a slope of no more than 10%
o has permeable, well-drained soil
o provides adequate protection for groundwater
o is not prone to frequent flooding
o ensures the minimum distance requirements with respect to water courses, buildings and
adjacent properties.
Guidelines for the operation and maintenance of the irrigation system shall be provided to the
school by the supplier as part of the installation, with specific reference to treated effluent and
approving authority requirements.
Backflow prevention devices shall be installed to protect internal school water supply and the street
potable mains water.
In most cases an Irrigation Management Plan (IMP), incorporating site specific irrigation
application procedures and a site and soil assessment must be prepared and incorporated into the
design and management practices of a scheme.
Recycled water is not to be stored on site.
Wherever recycled water is used, erect prominent warning signs in
compliance with AS 1319 1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational
Environment indicating the words RECYCLED WATER BEING USED
DO NOT DRINK and the do not drink pictogram as indicated:
Glossary / Definitions
Recycled water (treated effluent): Water which has been derived from sewerage systems (including
Community Wastewater Management Systems - CWMS) and treated to a standard which is satisfactory for its
intended use
Effluent: The water discharged following a wastewater treatment process
Treated effluent: Effluent treated by a number of primary, secondary and tertiary processes such as removal
of sediment, activated sludge, trickling filters, oxidation ditches and filtration.
Backflow prevention device: Used to protect water supplies from contamination or pollution.
Irrigation Management Plan (IMP): A plan that makes general recommendations and provides a methodology
for the management of a turf surface. An IMP offers a best practice approach to the management of water
resources used for irrigation.
Potable water: water fit or suitable for drinking
Non-potable water: Water unsuitable for drinking, to be used as a non drinking supply (ie toilets)

References:
SA Water: www.sawater.com.au
DECS Asset Support Centre: Ph: 1800 810 076, Email: asc@saugov.sa.gov.au
Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling 2006: http://www.ephc.gov.au/taxonomy/term/39
Australian Standard: AS 1319 - 1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment
Procedure
Version
Issued
Author
Authority
Revision Authority

Ecologically Sustainable Development

V1.0
June 2009
Environmental Resources Team
AD Asset Services
AD Asset Services

The user is expected to confirm current validity by going to

www.decs.sa.gov.au/assetservices

Compliance
Status
Review Date
Location
File details
Office

Mandatory
Approved
June 2010
Asset Services
07/6693
Resources

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