SSWT-Update by Dillon June 4 2007

Small Systems Water Treatment Plant Operator
Program Manual
prepared for:
Government of the Northwest Territories
Municipal and Community Affairs
P.O. Box 1320
Yellowknife, NT X1A 3S9
prepared by:
FSC Architects & Engineers
4910 53rd Street
P.O. Box 1777
Yellowknife, NT X1A 2P4
FSC Project Number: 2003-0070
Updated 11/2/2007
SMALL SYSTEMS INTRODUCTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................... 1-1

2.0 REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES & CODES OF PRACTICE................ 2-1
2.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 NWT PUBLIC HEALTH ACT ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.3 BOIL WATER ORDERS...................................................................................................... 2-1
2.4 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................... 2-2
2.5 OPERATING AGREEMENTS ............................................................................................... 2-2
2.6 GUIDELINES FOR CANADIAN DRINKING WATER QUALITY .............................................. 2-2
2.7 MULTI-BARRIER APPROACH TO SAFEGUARDING RAW WATER ....................................... 2-3
2.8 REVIEW ........................................................................................................................... 2-5
3.0 WATER SOURCES & CHARACTERISTICS ................................... 3-1

3.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.2 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.3 THE WATER CYCLE ......................................................................................................... 3-1
3.4 GENERAL PROPERTIES OF WATER ................................................................................... 3-3
3.5 MICROBIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS ........................................................................... 3-3
3.6 MICROBIOLOGICAL COMPLIANCE AND OPERATION ....................................................... 3-10
3.7 CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES ......................................................................... 3-11
3.8 RADIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES .......................................................................................... 3-14
3.9 REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 3-15
4.0 SYSTEM COMPONENTS ............................................................. 4-1

4.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.3 RESERVOIRS (IMPOUNDING WATER) ................................................................................ 4-1
4.4 INTAKES AND SCREENS.................................................................................................... 4-3
4.5 FILTRATION ..................................................................................................................... 4-3
4.6 PUMPS ............................................................................................................................. 4-7
4.7 VALVES ......................................................................................................................... 4-14
4.8 VALVE OPERATION ........................................................................................................ 4-20
4.9 REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 4-21
5.0 DISINFECTION........................................................................... 5-1

5.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.2 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.3 GENERAL CONCEPTS ....................................................................................................... 5-1
5.4 HOW CHLORINE WORKS .................................................................................................. 5-2
5.5 TESTING THE CHLORINE RESIDUAL ................................................................................. 5-3
5.6 REGULATORY REQUIREMENT .......................................................................................... 5-5
5.7 OPERATIONAL GOALS ..................................................................................................... 5-5
5.8 WHERE AND WHEN TO TAKE CHLORINE TESTS ............................................................... 5-6
5.9 INTERPRETING THE TEST RESULTS FROM TRUCKS ........................................................... 5-6
5.10 INTERPRETING THE TEST RESULTS FROM WATER TANKS ................................................ 5-7
5.11 MAKING CHLORINE SOLUTIONS WITH HYPOCHLORITE ................................................... 5-9
5.12 ALTERNATIVES TO CHLORINATION................................................................................ 5-16
5.13 REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 5-18
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6.0 MAINTENANCE FOR WATER TREATMENT ................................. 6-1
6.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.2 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL .................................................................... 6-1
6.3 CLEANING WATER TRUCK TANKS ................................................................................... 6-3
6.4 PUMPS AND PUMP MAINTENANCE ................................................................................... 6-4
6.5 TAKING WATER SAMPLES ............................................................................................... 6-7
6.6 WATER TANKS .............................................................................................................. 6-10
6.7 RECORDS KEEPING ........................................................................................................ 6-12
6.8 REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 6-14
7.0 SAFETY FOR WATER TREATMENT ............................................ 7-1

7.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.2 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 7-1
7.3 WORKERS COMPENSATION BOARD ................................................................................. 7-1
7.4 CONFINED SPACES ........................................................................................................... 7-2
7.5 HAZARDS ......................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.6 BODY INFECTION ............................................................................................................. 7-2
7.7 PHYSICAL INJURIES – FIRST AID...................................................................................... 7-4
7.8 THE PLANT SAFETY PROGRAM ........................................................................................ 7-4
7.9 GENERAL PLANT SAFETY ................................................................................................ 7-6
7.10 EQUIPMENT SERVICING ................................................................................................... 7-9
7.11 PRECAUTIONS FOR ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE ........................................................... 7-10
7.12 FIRE PROTECTION .......................................................................................................... 7-12
7.13 CHEMICAL HANDLING AND STORAGE ........................................................................... 7-13
7.14 LABORATORY ................................................................................................................ 7-14
7.15 HANDLING CHEMICALS ................................................................................................. 7-17
7.16 REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 7-20
8.0 INTRODUCTION TO SEWAGE LAGOON MANAGEMENT .............. 8-1

9.0 WASTE SOURCES, CHARACTERISTICS AND TREATMENT .......... 9-1
9.1 OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................... 9-1
9.2 SEWAGE COMPOSITION.................................................................................................... 9-2
9.3 WHY TREAT SEWAGE? .................................................................................................... 9-3
9.4 THE NATURAL BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT PROCESS ......................................................... 9-3
9.5 THE NITROGEN CYCLE .................................................................................................... 9-5
9.6 REVIEW ........................................................................................................................... 9-6
10.0 SEWAGE LAGOON OPERATION & MAINTENANCE .................... 10-1

10.1 OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................... 10-1
10.2 BASIC LAGOON CONFIGURATION .................................................................................. 10-1
10.3 BASIC OPERATION ......................................................................................................... 10-3
10.4 OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS...................................................................................... 10-6
10.5 PH 10-7
10.6 MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................. 10-10
10.7 ODOUR, WEED, AND INSECT PROBLEMS ..................................................................... 10-17
10.8 SLUDGE MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................... 10-20
10.9 WETLAND SEWAGE TREATMENT AND OVERLAND FLOW ............................................ 10-21
10.10 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................ 10-22
10.11 SPILL REPORTING ........................................................................................................ 10-23
10.12 SEWAGE SPILLS ........................................................................................................... 10-23
10.13 RECORD KEEPING ........................................................................................................ 10-23
10.14 REVIEW ....................................................................................................................... 10-25
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11.0 SOLID WASTE OPERATOR’S MANUAL .................................... 11-1
12.0 MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF A MODIFIED LANDFILL ... 12-1
12.1 OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................... 12-1
12.2 BASIC WASTE MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES ................................................................... 12-1
12.3 SOLID WASTE CHARACTERISTICS .................................................................................. 12-1
12.4 BURNING IS NOT ACCEPTABLE ...................................................................................... 12-2
12.5 DISPOSAL ALTERNATIVES ............................................................................................. 12-2
12.6 BASIC OPERATIONS OF A MODIFIED LANDFILL ............................................................. 12-4
12.7 COVER MATERIAL ......................................................................................................... 12-5
12.8 HONEY BAG AREA OPERATION ..................................................................................... 12-5
12.9 ANIMAL WASTES ........................................................................................................... 12-5
12.10 BULKY WASTE AREA OPERATION ................................................................................. 12-9
12.11 FENCING ........................................................................................................................ 12-9
13.0 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES FOR A MODIFIED LANDFILL ..... 13-1

13.1 OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................... 13-1
13.2 ACCESS ROADS.............................................................................................................. 13-1
13.3 FENCES .......................................................................................................................... 13-1
13.4 SIGNS ............................................................................................................................. 13-1
13.5 DRAINAGE ..................................................................................................................... 13-1
13.6 ODOURS......................................................................................................................... 13-3
13.7 HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT ............................................................................. 13-3
13.8 HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION ALTERNATIVES ....................................................... 13-4
13.9 TRACKING HAZARDOUS WASTE .................................................................................... 13-4
13.10 HAZARDOUS WASTE STORAGE ...................................................................................... 13-5
13.11 FINAL DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTES .................................................................... 13-7
13.12 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT SITES ............................ 13-7
13.13 RECORD KEEPING .......................................................................................................... 13-8
13.14 REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 13-9
LIST OF ADDENDA
ADDENDUM A – MATH TOPICS

ADDENDUM B – ABC NEED-TO-KNOW
ADDENDUM C – SAMPLE O&M MANUAL
ADDENDUM D – GUIDELINES FOR CANADIAN DRINKING WATER QUALITY
ADDENDUM E – NWT PUBLIC HEALTH ACT – PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY SUB-SECTION
ADDENDUM F – SAMPLE WATER LICENCE
ADDENDUM G – CWMS WATER DISTRIBUTION SHEETS
ADDENDUM H – CWMS SEWAGE LAGOON SHEETS
ADDENDUM I – CWMS SOLID WASTE SHEETS
ADDENDUM J – MSDS SHEETS
ADDENDUM K – ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION
ADDENDUM L - GLOSSARY
ADDENDUM M – STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
ADDENDUM N – LOG SHEETS
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
In the North, the community works operator may be responsible for the operation of
water treatment and delivery, sewage collection and treatment, and solid waste collection
and disposal. Sometimes he is responsible for just one of these areas, sometimes all
three! But the job is much more than this.
The operator has three primary goals to achieve:
Protect the public's health
Protect the environment
Protect the public's purse.
Every person in the community depends on the operator doing his job well.
They depend on the operator to provide safe, clean water in sufficient quantity so they
always have enough for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
They depend on the operator to ensure waste is removed from their homes, and from the
community, so the public's health is protected and sanitary conditions are always
maintained.
They depend on the operator to dispose of wastes in a safe manner that does not pollute
the environment.
They depend on the operator to provide these services, without fail, every hour of every
day - their health depends on you!
Finally, they depend on the operator to do all this without spending much money.
When the operator does his job well, no one notices.
When the operator does his job poorly, everyone notices.
The operation of water, sewage, and solid waste systems is not easy. It is based on
complex scientific principles some of which you must know to do the job properly. But
no one can know everything.
Besides you, there are many people who care that communities have good water and
sanitation, the environment is protected, and money is not wasted. You are a member of
a team of engineers, scientists, technicians, inspectors, health professionals, and other
public servants who are all dedicated to the same goal.
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And, there are no secrets. Anything you want to know is yours for the asking. If you
have a problem and can't fix it, or don't know what to do, or even if you only suspect a
problem, you can have the answer in just a few phone calls.
What are the responsibilities of the operator in Water Treatment?
The operator has two basic responsibilities.
First, it is the responsibility of the operator to ensure, to the best of his ability and the
capabilities of the system, that the water delivered to the people looks, smells and tastes
good, and is good.
If the water does not look good or taste good, people will be driven to collect water from
another source they think tastes better but may not be safe. How many people do you
know that collect their own water? This can be a problem because all waters contain
disease causing organisms that can profoundly affect someone's health.
Although the operator of a very basic water system, such as will be discussed in this
program, has no control over the chemical quality of that water, he does have control
over the disease causing organisms. The operator must ensure that every litre of water
delivered to the people is properly disinfected -- every litre.
Second, it is the responsibility of the operator to ensure, to the best of his ability, that the
equipment he works with operates properly every day of the week and lasts for many
years.
People need water every day both for sustenance and for health. How can people get the
safe water they depend on if the equipment that delivers that water does not work, or
worse, if the equipment contaminates that water? And, if the equipment is continually out
of service through neglect or abuse, where does the money come from so it can be
repaired? The answer is, the money comes from other programs that people would also
like to have but now cannot.
What are the responsibilities of the operator in Sewage Treatment?
Here, too, the operator has two basic responsibilities.
capabilities of the system, that the sewage is properly treated before it is released to the
environment.
Sewage causes both disease and pollution.
years. Even the simplest sewage treatment system costs over one million dollars. To
neglect or abuse this system could be very expensive.
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Additionally, there are laws that forbid pollution. An obvious violation of those laws
could cause great embarrassment for the community and could result in expensive legal
fees and costly fines.
What are the responsibilities of the operator in Solid and Hazardous Waste Management?
Here, you also have two basic responsibilities.
capabilities of the system, that waste is properly stored and disposed at the waste site.
Improperly stored or disposed wastes can pose a health problem and can damage the
environment for many years. You have the knowledge and are in the position to change
practices you know to be improper, dangerous, and wasteful. You must act.
years.
What are the responsibilities of the operator to fellow workers?
You must help your fellow workers work safely.
Just as information will not be withheld from you when you ask, you must not withhold
any information from your fellow workers. People in water and sanitation profession
must continuously grow and improve if they are to met the needs of the public and
rapidly changing technology. That will only happen when you share all your knowledge.
What are the responsibilities of the operator to himself?
You must work safely. You must not endanger yourself, or your family, by not following
good safety practices, or by not doing your job correctly.
You must continue to learn about your job yourself. You must strive to learn something
new everyday. You cannot wait for people to come to you and offer some kind of
training. You cannot wait for the next training course. Read every book, every manual,
and every journal you can get you hands on. Ask every question you can of every
member of your team. Don't allow visitors to leave your community without questioning
them thoroughly.
What is in this manual?
Water, sewage and solid waste operations are not that easy. This Program Manual will
help you to do your job properly.
At the back of this Manual you will find a Glossary that gives the meaning of many
technical words and a List of Additional Sources of information. As well, there is a copy
of the ABC Need-to-Know Criteria for Very Small Water System Operators.
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There are spaces for notes at the end of each topic and at the end of each session. Add
blank pages to the manual if you need more note space.
There are review questions at the end of each section. Once you have completed that
section, try and answer the review questions. If you need to, go back to the section to
make sure you have the correct answer. Check your answers in the section. If you have
any questions about the review questions, be sure to bring them up in class.
This course has been developed by northerners to meet the specific needs of
Environmental Operators in the Northwest Territories. As well, upon successful
completion of this course, an operator should be able to pass the ABC tests in the subject
areas of water treatment and lagoon sewage treatment. Solid waste management is also
included in this manual.
If you are studying this manual while attending a course you may have the opportunity to
hear presentations made from experts on the subject. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Ask
questions if you don’t understand something. Part of learning is listening to others who
are doing similar jobs in other communities. You might learn something from people who
may have had similar problems to yours. Someone else may learn from your experiences.
If you are taking a course based on this manual, you will probably have to read or do
review questions in the evening after class. There is a lot of material to cover in a short
period of time.
In summary...
So what is in it for you if you work hard and do well in this course? In addition to the
personal satisfaction that comes from doing something well, you may have just ensured
that you have a job for the rest of your life. Every employer wants a responsible, well
trained, and caring person to operate their systems. In the water and sanitation business,
they don't come along every day.
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Notes
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SMALL SYSTEMS REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES & CODES OF PRACTICE
2
2.0 REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES & CODES OF PRACTICE
2.1 OBJECTIVES
In Section 2 you will learn about:
Water quality regulations
Applicable legislation
When a Water licence is required
Your duty to comply to your Water licence
2.2 NWT PUBLIC HEALTH ACT

The current Public Health Act was legislated by the Northwest Territories’ government in
1988 to provide an all-encompassing document that provides specific regulations in a
variety of different fields. The latest amendment was in 2002.
Of most interest to water treatment operators is the Public Water Supply Regulations sub-
section. It is useful for operators to be acquainted with the document, especially the
section on operator safety.
The NWT Public Health Act – Public Water Supply Regulations sub-section are
included in Addendum E.
2.3 BOIL WATER ORDERS

If you have repetitive microbiological test results where either faecal coliform or E. Coli
exceed 1 cfu/100ml, and the EHO believes that the health of the community may be
compromised, the EHO will issue a “Boil Water Order”.
This order is an advisory to the public that they should bring their water to a rolling boil
for one minute before use in drinking, making infant formula, juice or ice cubes, washing
fruit and vegetables, or dental hygiene. Depending on the extent of the contamination
instructions may also be issued for water used in bathing.
The Boil Water Order will remain in place until the EHO is satisfied that the health of
community is not longer compromised.
11/02/07 2-1
SMALL SYSTEMS
2.4 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS

REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES & CODES OF PRACTICE
2
Communities that take water and dispose of water in the NWT require a licence from the
NWT Water Board, Gwich’in Land and Water Board, Sahtu Land and Water Board, or
Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board, depending on where you live.
A typical water licence will, as a minimum, specify the amount of water that can be taken
for municipal use, where that water can be taken from, and where the wastewater can be
disposed. An example of a water licence is included as Addendum F.
The operator should be aware of the following licence requirements. The community
must:
Report volumes for water use and sewage disposal;
Place signs and sample point markers at sites;
Sample sewage effluent as required;
Report spills; and
Develop operation and maintenance manuals.
The operator must follow the requirements of his water licence. It is the law.
2.5 OPERATING AGREEMENTS

Many communities operate their water and waste system under an agreement with the
Government of the Northwest Territories. This agreement may dictate additional
operational requirements beyond typical legislation and water licence requirements.
These agreements are legally binding contracts and must be followed to the letter.
2.6 GUIDELINES FOR CANADIAN DRINKING WATER QUALITY

First published in 1968, the Canadian Drinking Water Standards and Objectives were the
first comprehensive Canadian guidelines to specify recommendations and limits for
substances and conditions that affect the quality of drinking water. Ten years later, the
document was replaced by the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality: 1978.
Since 1978, the guidelines have been re-examined and, where needed, revised as limits
were changed or new chemicals were added.
The Federal-Provincial subcommittee which reports to the Conference of Deputy

Ministers of Health develop the guidelines. Once adopted, the guidelines are published by
Health and Welfare Canada. Provincial and territorial departments of health then may
11/02/07 2-2
adopt the guidelines under their own legislation. In the NWT, the Department of Health
2
adopts the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality as policy.
The GCDWQ shows some of the important water quality parameters and their maximum
acceptable concentrations. Limits are based on one of two criteria: health effects; or
aesthetics (taste, odour, appearance).
The current edition was published in 1996. Guidelines for specific parameters are being
reviewed and updated all the time. The last update was April 2002, which is included in
Addendum E.
Operators should read this document for definitions of Maximum Acceptable

Concentration, and Aesthetic Objectives. The reasons parameters are listed as a MAC or
and AO are contained in the document.
The Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water are included in Addendum D. More
information is available on the Health Canada website:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hecs-sesc/water/index.htm
2.7 MULTI-BARRIER APPROACH TO SAFEGUARDING RAW WATER
The multi-barrier approach is...
… an integrated system of procedures, processes and tools that

collectively prevent or reduce the contamination of drinking water from
source to tap in order to reduce risks to public health.
We will talk later about what harm different types of contamination, faecal coliforms for
example, could do to the community if they entered the water supply. How do we prevent
contamination from occurring? Health Canada has developed a multi barrier approach
from source to tap.
Even though no approach will guarantee 100 per cent protection all of the time, it has
been demonstrated that the most effective way to manage drinking water systems is to
implement a multi-barrier approach.
The goal of this approach is to reduce the risk of contamination of the drinking water, and
to increase the feasibility and effectiveness of remedial control or preventative options.
As a safeguard, it is important for contingency plans to be in place to respond to incidents

as they arise, and for redundancies to be built into the system wherever feasible.
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Figure 2.1 depicts a multi-barrier approach to safe drinking water that has three major
2
elements. These elements are source water protection, water treatment, and the drinking
water distribution system.
These are addressed in an integrated manner by using a system of and tools, such as:
Water quality monitoring and management of water supplies from source to tap
Legislative and policy frameworks
Public involvement and awareness
Guidelines, standards and objectives
Research
The development of science and technology solutions
More information can be found at:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hecs-sesc/water/publications/source_to_tap/source_to_tap-
toc.htm
Figure 2-1 The Multi-Barrier Approach
11/02/07 2-4
2
2.8 REVIEW
1. What set of rules must a NWT community follow with regard to water
quality? Who created these rules?
2. What tasks are you required to do to fulfil the requirements of your

Water Licence
3. What are your responsibilities to others?
4. What tasks are your responsibilities to yourself?
11/02/07 2-5
2
Notes
11/02/07 2-6
SMALL SYSTEMS WATER SOURCES & CHARACTERISTICS
3.0 WATER SOURCES & CHARACTERISTICS

3
3.1 OBJECTIVES
In this section you will learn about:
The sources of water
Characteristics of Water
Microbiological
Physical and Chemical
Radiological
Characteristics of Drinking Water
3.2 INTRODUCTION
In the Northwest Territories small community water systems may include:
An intake or well system;
A water lake or reservoir; and
A chlorination system.
All systems rely on chlorine disinfection. Adding filtration or fluoridation usually brings
the facility up to Class I.
3.3 THE WATER CYCLE

The hydrologic cycle, or water cycle, is a continuous process in which water is
transported from the oceans, to the atmosphere, to the land, and back to the oceans again.
The driving force for the cycle is the sun, which provides the energy for evaporation.
Throughout the cycle, water quality changes continuously as it changes from salt water,
to water vapour, to fresh water, and back to salt water again.
The cycle is slightly different in areas with and without permafrost. Figure 3.1 and Figure
3.2 show the hydrologic cycle for non-permafrost and permafrost areas, respectively.
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Figure 3-1 Hydrological Cycle

3
Figure 3-2 Hydrological Cycle in Permafrost
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Surface water is found in lakes and rivers. Its quality and availability varies with the
season. Surface water can be influenced by many sources and become quickly
contaminated. Such sources include: natural runoff from the land, spills of fuel or
3
chemicals, large upstream sewage discharges, discharges from mining, or agriculture.
Groundwater is found in the underground, usually in an aquifer. Because it has filtered

through the earth, groundwater is usually very clear and free from microorganisms.
However, because water is a solvent, it dissolves minerals such as calcium, iron and
manganese, which can affect the taste and quality of the water.
Groundwater that is associated with organic soils may contain hydrogen sulphide and/or
methane.
Groundwater from shallow wells can be influenced by surface conditions. If the surface
water that feeds the shallow well is contaminated, the ground water may be contaminated
as well. Sometimes this contamination can be sudden, coming and going quickly. Or, it
can be slow and once contaminated, take many years before it becomes clean again.
3.4 GENERAL PROPERTIES OF WATER

Water is never found in its pure form in nature. This is because water provides a place for
plants and animals to live, and because it is a solvent. As a result, water dissolves tiny
amounts of elements and other natural compounds. These include organic matter, various
microorganisms and plants, and other substances. These factors contribute to how we see,
taste and smell water.
All of these factors contribute to whether the water is potable. Water that is potable is
safe for human consumption according to recognized standards.
3.5 MICROBIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Surface water, that is water found in lakes and rivers, contain many different types of
microscopic organisms. Many of these organisms are a natural part of the environment.
Others, and the ones in which we are interested, come from man and animals. Some of
these organisms are called pathogenic, meaning they are harmful and cause disease.
Because the disease is associated with water, it is called a water-borne disease. Some of
the diseases include: typhoid; cholera; and giardiasis.
This is why it is necessary that all public water supplies are disinfected. People should
only drink water that has been disinfected, or boiled.
Water microbiology by definition is the study of microbes found in natural water. There
are many types of micro organisms that are found naturally in water, including bacteria,
viruses, protozoa, algae, and microscopic animals. The vast majority of these
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-3

microorganisms are not harmful to people, however a small percentages must be removed
in order to ensure safe drinking water.
3
3.5.1 HETEROTROPHIC PLATE COUNT
Heterotrophic plate count (HPC) is a method used to indicate the microbial quality of
water. HPC is also known as Standard Plate Count.
The types and concentrations of species recovered using a HPC procedure vary
depending on many factors, including the physical and chemical characteristics of the
water. Recovered microorganisms can include those naturally found in the water
environment and others from many different pollutant sources. HPC tests recover a broad
range of bacterial species, some of which may be pathogens.
Unlike other indicators, such as total coliform or E. coli, low concentrations of HPC
organisms will still be present after drinking water treatment. Some water utilities can
achieve HPC concentrations of less than 10 cfu/ml in finished water.
HPC are not a health concern in drinking water to the general public.
HPC is an indicator of microbial quality. HPC can change before changes occur in
coliform bacteria. Therefore, operators are wise to test routinely for HPC.
Once positive results are seen in the coliform groups, contamination has already
occurred. Operators aware of changing HPC concentrations may be able to prevent a
microbial intrusion.
Plant operators can use HPC concentrations in water during treatment and immediately
upon leaving the treatment plant in conjunction with several routine tests to monitor plant
operation. HPC does not replace these tests. Other tests include those for coliform
bacteria, turbidity and chlorine residuals.
HPC can also be used as a measure of quality deterioration in wells, distribution lines and
reservoirs.
As an operational guideline HPC concentrations should be relatively

consistent and NOT exceed 500 cfu/mL.
Should elevated HPC not respond to increased chlorine, operators

should immediately contact their EHO.
Chlorine demand and turbidity must be part of diagnostic testing.
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3.5.2 COLIFORM BACTERIA
The type of bacteria that are regulated in water treatment are the coliform bacteria.
3
Coliform bacteria originate in the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals and can be
found in their wastes. Coliform bacteria can also be found in soil and on vegetation.
Coliform bacteria are relatively simple to identify and are present in much larger numbers
than more dangerous pathogens. Coliform bacteria react to the natural environment and
treatment processes in a manner and degree similar to pathogens.
By monitoring coliform bacteria, the increase or decrease of many pathogenic bacteria

can be estimated. It has been proven that when coliforms are detected in water,
particularly faecal coliforms, pathogenic organisms are also present.
All these kinds of coliform are normally non-pathogenic, but some of them do have
pathogenic qualities. Therefore, water must be treated and disinfected to remove these
bacteria.
Figure 3-3 A petri dish of coliform bacteria
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-5

3.5.2.1 Total Coliform
The total coliform test is a measure of all of the coliform bacteria in the water sample. It
3
is used as an indicator of contamination.
If you receive a positive result for total coliform, you must take action immediately to
ensure that your chlorination process is working properly.
Then you must sample again to make sure that the first sample was not somehow
contaminated by you.
While you are waiting for those results you should assess your system to see if there are
any obvious sources of contamination.
If the test is positive a second time, you must report to your EHO. Then you must
undertake a rigourous sampling program to determine where the total coliforms are
coming from and take steps to remove the source of contamination.
The Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality state that:
1. There should be no more than 10 coliform organisms in any 100mL

test.
2. No two consecutive tests should show the presence of coliform

bacteria.
3. No more than 10% of the tests should show the presence of coliform
bacteria.
3.5.2.2 Faecal Coliform
The faecal coliform test is a measure of faecal coliform bacteria in the water sample. It is
another indicator of contamination.
Faecal coliform is a sub-set of the coliform bacteria group. "Faecal" means that the
organism is associated with faeces, or excreted waste from animals.
Faecal coliforms are a specific class of bacteria, which only inhabit the intestines of
warm-blooded animals and hence, are found in faeces. Again, not all faecal coliforms are
pathogenic but the percentage is higher. A test for faecal coliforms can be done in 48
hours.
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-6

The Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality state that no

3
100mL test should show the presence of faecal coliforms.
If you receive a positive result for faecal coliform, after you immediately check your
disinfection system, you must contact the EHO and follow instructions.
Usually, a second test will be taken to confirm the first, and again while you wait for the
results, you need to assess your system.
3.5.2.3 Escherichia coli (E. coli)
E. coli is a specific type of faecal coliform that is often used as a benchmark test for
pathogenicity of faecal coliforms. It is important to note that not all E. coli are harmful.
In fact there are over 25,000 strains (bacterial varieties), but only 150 might make you a
bit sick and only one strain, O157:H7, will make you truly ill.
The O157:H7 E. coli strain causes what is known as “Hamburger Disease” because it is
more often associated with improperly cooked meat.
E. coli tests can be conducted as a standard presence/absence test. It is preferred to the

faecal coliform count because it can be done in 24 hours, compared to 48.
If you have a positive result for E. coli, the actions are the same as for faecal coliform.
3.5.3 PROTOZOA
Protozoa are small microorganisms about 4 to 40 microns is size, that are more similar to
animals than bacteria. They are larger than bacteria, their eggs have a hard shell, and are
resistant to chlorine.
Two of the most common protozoa related to health problems from drinking water are
Cryptosporidium and Giardia. When people get ill from these organisms, they do not
build immunity as they would from a viral infection. Therefore, they can get ill over and
over again.
Giardia (gee-ar-dee-a) comes from warm-blooded mammals such as beaver, muskrat,

caribou, dogs, and man. Sometimes called "beaver fever", its symptoms are like the flu.
Cryptosporidium is more serious than Giardia. The diarrhoea caused by this organism
can be compared to that caused by cholera and can cause death. Children, Elders, and
people with reduced immune systems are most susceptible.
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-7

Figure 3-4 Giardia lamblia (scanning electron microscope photo)

3
Currently, there are no guidelines related to protozoa in the GCDWQ. However, it does
mention the need of “effective disinfection” of protozoa from the drinking water and
“suggests” than 99% of the organisms should be removed during disinfection.
3.5.4 VIRUSES
Viruses are very small organisms not related to bacteria or protozoa that are often smaller
than 30 nanometres. That means that viruses can be 100 times smaller than bacteria.
Viruses are found in NWT water and can be disease forming.
3.5.5 ALGAE
Algae are a group of microorganisms neither related to plants, nor bacteria, but in a
kingdom of their own, Protista. Algae are autotrophic, meaning they derive their energy
from light. Individual algae can be similar in size to bacteria, but can form long,
filamentous chains that are visible to the naked eye. Algae, in small quantities are
relatively harmless and do not cause health problems, however they can, as stated before,
cause taste and odour problems as well as clog up pipes.
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-8

One variety of algae, the blue-green algae, excretes the toxin microcystin that is a health
concern in higher concentration. Blue-green algae are not commonly found in the NWT.
3
Figure 3-5 Taste and Odour Algae
(from Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater – 17th Edition,
Clesceri et al, American Public Health Association, Washington, 1989)
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-9

3.6 MICROBIOLOGICAL COMPLIANCE AND OPERATION

3
3.6.1 COMPLIANCE
The Public Health Act requires that microbiological sample results be submitted to prove
compliance with the regulations. The number of compliance samples varies with the size
of the community and follows the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
For small systems, the EHO generally requires 1 sample per week (4 samples per month)
of the water delivered to the public.
Submitting this sample is “compliance” and you must do this. Usually, total coliform and
E. coli. are the tests are done on the sample.
3.6.2 OPERATION
Simply having sample results of the water delivered to the customer will not tell you how
your system is performing. Note also that HPC tests are not required by the EHO.
Having this information may allow you to predict a problem and prevent it from
occurring.
The system you operate is complex and there are many potential sources of
contamination and sites where contamination can occur. How many of you have had a
positive result because dirt got into the water truck? Or on the hose?
A small system generally has these basic components:
A raw water source, which may be a reservoir in some communities;
A treatment plant / truck fill station;
Water trucks; and
Water storage tanks.
Each of these sites should be tested once a week during normal operation for HPC, total
coliform and either faecal coliform or E. coli. The results should be read as soon as they
arrive in the community and, if necessary, acted upon. You should make the results
known in a monthly report to the SAO.
If you have a raw water source that changes, for example in the spring, then you should
increase your sampling program.
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-10

Microbiological sampling does not replace your other tests for chlorine residual and
turbidity. Sampling, along with reporting, is an important part of your due diligence
program.
3
3.7 CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Water (H2O) is a compound made from two atoms of hydrogen and one atom of oxygen.
At room temperature both hydrogen and oxygen are gases, while water is, of course, a
liquid. Water is the only compound that expands when it gets colder, below 4°C. A
diagram of the water molecule is shown in Figure 3.6.
Figure 3-6 Water Molecule
Water is the universal solvent – it is a better solvent than any other compound. It can
dissolve almost all elements and compounds. Once dissolved, the mixture is called a
solution. The solution can be formed in two ways.
In the first way, when a compound comes in contact with water, some of the molecules of
the compound come apart into what are called ions. For example, common salt is made
up of two elements, sodium and chlorine, and a molecule of salt is written chemically as
NaCl and shown in Figure 3.7.
The elements that make up water itself are also constantly coming apart and going back
together.
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-11

Figure 3-7 Salt Molecule 3
A chemical equation for water would look like this:
H2O ⇔ 2H+ + O-
One for salt would look like this:
NaCl ⇔ Na+ + Cl-
The + and - signs indicate that the element is in an ion form. Some elements have
positive (+) signs and others have negative (-) signs, like poles of a magnet. Since
opposites attract, the ions hold together into two new compounds NaO and HCl. These
also constantly move in and out of their ionic forms.
The second way that compounds dissolve into water is that the compound molecule, or
groups of molecules, simply fill a space between the water molecules.
3.7.1 TURBIDITY
We expect our water to be clear and clean looking. Aesthetics is the measure of how
pleasing we find the look and smell of the water.
Turbidity is the measure of clarity or cloudiness water has. Cloudiness or muddiness

comes from suspended solids in the water such as clay, or sand. Turbidity must be
removed for four reasons:
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-12

It can:
Carry disease-causing microorganisms; and

3
Make the water taste bad; and
Make the water look bad; and
Protect viruses and bacteria from chlorine disinfection.
The amount of turbidity is measured by passing light through the water. Particles in the
water will cause the light to scatter. As turbidity increases, the more the light scatters, and
the less light will reach the other side. The devise used to measure turbidity is called a
Nephelometer (or a Turbidimeter). The units of measurement are called NTU's
(Nephelometric Turbidity Units).
Turbidity testing on source is important in water treatment in order to verify if current

treatment techniques are to be effective in disinfection and aesthetic quality. The
frequency of testing depends directly on the variability of the source water quality. If
source water tends to historically have a great deal of variability with respect to turbidity,
test may need to be done more often.
Impoundment in a lake or reservoir may reduce turbidity to acceptable concentrations as

the solids settle to the bottom.
Filtration may be required to meet guidelines. At present the drinking water guidelines
require that turbidity be below 5 NTU's to meet aesthetic objectives (AO), and below 1
NTU to meet the Maximum Acceptable Concentration (MAC).
3.7.2 COLOUR
We expect our water to be colourless. Colour often comes from rotting wood and
vegetation. These organic compounds are also called humic substances. Colour can also
come from elements dissolved in the water. For instance, iron turns water a reddish
colour and manganese turns water black.
Colour is also measured by the scattering of light. The units of measure are called TCU's
(True Colour Units).
The drinking water guidelines require that colour is less than 15 TCU’s to meet aesthetic
objectives.
3.7.3 TASTE AND ODOUR
Often when water is bad-tasting and offensive-smelling, it is also turbid and off-colour. It
may be algae that cause this. But water that appears clear and colourless may also have a
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-13

bad taste or odour. Figure 3.5 shows some of the algae that are associated with taste and
odour.
3
Chlorine, when used in the proper amounts, does not contribute to taste, but when
chlorine reacts with other compounds, such as organic materials, the water may take on
an offensive taste or odour.
When the water provided to community residents tastes or smells badly, it doesn’t
necessarily mean it is unsafe to drink. However people are likely to seek out better tasting
water and the source they find may not be safe to drink.
3.7.4 CHEMICAL QUALITY
Water can contain dissolved or suspended materials. Some of these may be harmful if
consumed in large enough quantities. Some may cause taste and odour problems if
present in large enough concentrations.
Through laboratory studies, chemists have found out what chemicals are toxic. For
instance, examples of toxic chemicals are:
Inorganic chemicals such as arsenic and mercury; and
The organic chemicals in pesticides.
Toxicity is a measure of what specific concentration is poisonous to humans. The upper

limits for concentrations of most chemicals are set so that the risk of being poisoned for a
person drinking 1.5 litres of water per day for 70 years is one in one million.
Water is sometimes tested for its mineral content. Mineral content can make water hard
or soft depending on the amount of alkalinity present in the water. Alkalinity is related to
the amount of calcium and magnesium or other divalent cation carbonates in the water.
There are three types of limits when referring to acceptable chemical limits: maximum
acceptable concentration, interim maximum acceptable concentration and aesthetic
objective. A thorough description of these are found in the GCDWQ in Addendum D.
Other important minerals found in water are iron and manganese. Neither iron nor
manganese has adverse health effects. However, both can cause aesthetic odour, colour
and taste problems as well as promote the development of slime forming bacteria that can
deposit themselves on pipe and tank walls. Iron and manganese treatment is usually not
dealt with in small systems water treatment.
3.8 RADIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

People are exposed to radiation from a variety of sources, including water everyday. This
dose however is usually very low and does not contribute to concerns with human health.
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-14

A radiation dose from water sources represents an even smaller portion of that dose. In
some rare locations where the geology includes naturally high levels, radiation intake can
possibly become a concern. The GCDWQ allows a maximum acceptable dose (MAC) of
3
0.1mSv from a one-year’s consumption of drinking water.
The average water treatment plant operator will generally not have to deal with
radiological sampling. Any issue with radiation in your water supply should be referred
to your EHO. More information on radiological characteristics of water can be found in
the GCDWQ in Addendum D.
3.9 REVIEW
5. List the common physical properties of water.
6. What causes turbidity in water?
7. Why are coliform bacteria used to measure the bacteriological quality

of water?
8. What is potable water?
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-15

Notes
3
11/02/07 DRAFT 3-16

SMALL SYSTEMS SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
4.0 SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4.1 OBJECTIVES
Impounding water
Types of Pumps
4.2 INTRODUCTION
Having reviewed the characteristics of water in Section 3, we can now talk about
community water treatment, and the following steps:
Impounding water in a lake or reservoir
Intake
Types of pumps
Filtration
4.3 RESERVOIRS (IMPOUNDING WATER)

A water impoundment, or reservoir, is used to store, regulate and control water. A water
impoundment may be natural or artificial. Lakes and ponds are natural impoundments.
Tanks and man-made reservoirs are artificial impoundments.
Dams are artificial structures that can impound water in natural topographic features.
Dams may be constructed of earth and rock or from concrete.
Impoundments may be used to:
Store water from times when there is a lot of water available for times when there
is not a lot of water available. An example would be a seasonal fill reservoir that
is filled during summer from a creek to use if the source freezes to the bottom in
winter;
Store water from times when the water quality is good for times when it is not so
good. An example would be filling a reservoir from the Mackenzie River in the
winter when the water is clear, for use in the summer when the water is turbid;
Create a deeper reservoir so the intake is not frozen in the winter;
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-1

Provide a settling basin to allow turbidity and suspended solids to settle out.
4
Management of the impoundment depends on the purpose of the reservoir. Some
concerns that may need to be addressed are:
How often does the reservoir need to be filled to ensure a reliable supply of water;
Can it be filled often enough when the water is of good quality;
Will freeze concentration seriously affect the water quality;
How much does ice reduce the available water quantity;
How often does the reservoir need to be cleaned;
How much water is lost to evaporation and leakage.
Some reservoirs only need to be filled once a year. Others may need to be filled several
times a year. It should normally be filled when the water is of the best quality. This will
take careful planning.
When water freezes minerals dissolved in the water do not stay in the ice. They remain
dissolved in the water below the ice. Since ice can use most of the available water in a
reservoir, the concentrations of minerals in the water below the ice can increase until they
cause taste and odour problems. Ice also cuts off the water from air. Over the winter the
water can become anaerobic, or without oxygen. When this happens taste and odour
problems can result. This can happen in constructed reservoirs or in shallow lakes.
How often does a constructed reservoir need to be cleaned? That depends on the design
of the reservoir and the quality of the water placed in it. A reservoir used to settle out
turbidity will probably need cleaning more often than one that is used only to store clean
water. However, the reservoir should be inspected prior to each refilling. Look for any
problems when the water is at its lowest. If it appears that there is a lot of sediment in the
bottom you may have to plan for cleaning it before the next time it is filled.
Burrowing animals have to be controlled on earth embankment reservoirs. Even lined

reservoirs can develop failures if animals are allowed to dig holes in the banks. Trees and
other long-rooted plants can also lead to failure of an earth embankment reservoir.
Fencing the reservoir helps protect it from humans and animals, and the potential
contamination from these sources. Lining the reservoir with impermeable material, where
necessary and appropriate, helps protect it from potential sources of groundwater
contamination.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-2

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.4 INTAKES AND SCREENS

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
Wherever you get your water supply, there has to be a way to get the water from the
source into your system. This is done with an intake. Often the intake is a structure on the
end of an intake pipe. It usually has an intake screen on the opening. The purpose of the
screen is to keep large debris and fish out of the intake. In some cases a fine screen is
used to keep smaller organisms out of the system.
In spite of the presence of a screen it is not usually the primary means of keeping fish out
of the system. Design of the intake to keep the water velocity into the intake low enough
so that fish don’t get drawn into the intake is more important.
Occasionally screens may require cleaning. Some systems have a way of backwashing
the screens built in. Sometimes you have to rig up a water truck and hose to backwash.
Sometimes divers are required to clean the intake screen. Usually it doesn’t have to be
done for several years.
4.5 FILTRATION
Filtration is not really applicable to a ‘small system’; if you have a filtration system, you
have a Class I facility. However, many small systems are being upgraded to include
filtration in their water treatment process, so it is important for operators to understand
filtration technology and the associated guidelines.
4.5.1 CONVENTIONAL FILTRATION
Conventional filtration consists of coagulation, flocculation and sedimentation. Through

coagulation, coagulants are added to the raw water so particles combine to form larger
particles, known as floc. Common coagulants include aluminium sulphate or alum, and
polymers. Following coagulation, flocculation occurs when the flocs are stirred slowly,
causing them to come in contact with more particles to form even larger, settle-able
particles. Sedimentation or clarification refers to the large particles settling by gravity to
the bottom of a tank. This is required prior to filtration to reduce loading on the filters.
Filtration is the final step in conventional filtration where the particles that weren’t
removed by sedimentation are filtered out. The type of filter (also known as filter media)
vary depending on the raw water quality and characteristics. Examples of filter media are
sand, green sand and diatomaceous earth.
Conventional filtration routinely removes up to 1-micron particles, including

Cryptosporidium and Giardia lamblia. However not all bacteria can be filtered by
conventional filtration, and no viruses, disinfection by-products (DBP), colour, arsenic,
chlorides, nitrates, brackish water, sulphates, hardness or radium can be removed by this
method.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-3

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.5.2 MEMBRANE FILTRATION

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
In order to filter small particles, pressure is required to “push” water through filter media.
Filter media refers to the type of material used as a filter. The smaller the pore size (the
size of the holes) of the filter media, the greater the amount of pressure required to
“push” the water through. There are various types of pressure filtration that are
categorized by the size and type of the filter media, as illustration in Figure 4.1.
Figure 4.1 Pressure Filtration
Clean Water
Vacuum Pressure
Raw Water Raw Water
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-4

Microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) are membrane filtration processes that
4
required low pressure. They have become more popular for water treatment in the past
decade. MF and UF have been used as a stand-alone treatment, replacing conventional
water treatment or as a pre-treatment process for nanofiltration or reverse osmosis. The
distinction between MF and UF is the pore size of the membrane; UF between
approximately 0.1 and 0.01 microns, MF pore sizes are typically between 0.1 and 10
microns. Since ultrafiltration membranes have smaller pores, more pressure is generally
required for UF.
Communities throughout North America have selected MF and UF due to existing,

pending or anticipated regulatory requirements and concern over microbial contaminants,
such as crypto and/or giardia. MF and UF have also become popular because they are
easy to operate, can handle changes in water source quality and are comparable in cost to
other traditional filtration systems. In the NWT, Tulita uses microfiltration.
Although an intact membrane can provide an absolute barrier, a breach (a brake or tear)
in the membrane can reduce the filtering effectiveness of the membrane. A water
treatment plant using MF or UF must have a complete monitoring program to ensure
breaches are detected and repaired efficiently.
4.5.3 NANOFILTRATION AND RVERSE OSMOSIS
Nanofiltration (NF) is also a pressure-driven filtration process like MF and UF. However
NF but operates at a much higher pressure as the membrane size is smaller and removes
very small particles. NF is often selected for the removal of dissolved organic or
inorganic compounds. Another high-pressure filtration is reverse osmosis which removes
even very small particles. Revesrse Osmosis is generally unnecessary for water treatment
in the NWT.
NF removes particles of approximately 0.001 microns. NF has been tested with pre-
treatment, coagulant and UF are the most common, and stand-alone. Both systems are
suitable for surface water filtration.
In the NWT, NF has been selected for water treatment in Tulita and Tsiigehtchic.
4.5.4 CARTRIDGE FILTRATION
Cartridge filtration uses a filter made of paper or a polymer type product. Usually a
“train” of filters are used with large pore size filters followed by several smaller sizes. A
typical installation may see a 5 µm roughing filter followed by a 1 µm filter and then a
0.45 µm polishing filter.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-5

Cartridge filtration is sometimes combined with centrifugal removal. Water is

4
pumped into the filter housing and a
centrifugal force separates particles.
The dense particles that wind up at
the bottom of the housing and can be
removed manually, automatically or
continuously. The remaining liquids
are forced into an inner chamber of
the cartridge for filtration. No
chemical treatment is required.
The process does not require a

wastewater outfall. Wastewater production is
such that a standard sewage tank could be used
requiring only weekly pumpout.
4.6 REGULATIONS
The GNWT has adopted Health Canada’s new turbidity guidelines, which stipulate the
following.
Waterworks systems that use a surface water source or a groundwater source under the
direct influence of surface water should filter the source water to meet the following
health-based turbidity limits, as defined for specific treatment technologies. Where
possible, filtration systems should be designed and operated to reduce turbidity levels as
low as possible, with a treated water turbidity target of less than 0.1 NTU at all times.
Where this is not achievable, the treated water turbidity levels from individual filters:
1. For chemically assisted filtration, shall be less than or equal to 0.3 NTU in at
least 95% of the measurements made, or at least 95% of the time each calendar
month, and shall not exceed 1.0 NTU at any time.
2. For slow sand or diatomaceous earth filtration, shall be less than or equal to 1.0
NTU in at least 95% of the measurements made, or at least 95% of the time each
calendar month, and shall not exceed 3.0 NTU at any time.
3. For membrane filtration, shall be less than or equal to 0.1 NTU in at least 99%
of the measurements made, or at least 99% of the time each calendar month, and
shall not exceed 0.3 NTU at any time. If membrane filtration is the sole treatment
technology employed, some form of virus inactivation1 should follow the
filtration process.
It is not expected that all water supplies will be able to meet this revised turbidity
guideline immediately. Therefore, supplementary treatment should be considered in the
interim to ensure delivery of safe drinking water.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-6

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.7 PUMPS
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
4.7.1 TYPES OF PUMPS
There are many types of pumps. Most of these will not be encountered in a small water
system. This section covers only those most likely to be used in small water systems.
Pumps are a means of using energy (electrical, diesel fuel) to move a liquid (water)
through a distribution network, and providing pressure throughout the system.
The two main types of pumps used in small systems are:
Centrifugal; and
Positive displacement.
4.7.2 CENTRIFUGAL
Centrifugal pumps operate by applying kinetic energy to the fluid. The kinetic energy
increases the fluid velocity (speed) inside the pump. As the fluid leaves the pump, the
velocity decreases, increasing the pressure and providing the force for moving the fluid.
The most common centrifugal pumps in distribution service are vertical turbine pumps,
submersible pumps and end-suction pumps.
4.7.2.1 Vertical turbine
The vertical turbine pump is one, or a series of, mixed-flow impellers in ‘bowls’ mounted
vertically under the surface of the water. The impellers are driven by a shaft powered by
a ‘driver’ mounted above the water surface. The driver can be either a vertically-mounted
‘hollow shaft’ electric motor, where the pump shaft passes through the motor shaft, or by
a diesel or gasoline motor through a right-angle gear drive. The number of impellers can
be increased to increase the pressure from the pump. Vertical turbine pumps are often
used for wells.
Well-designed vertical turbine pumps are not usually bothered by cavitation, as the
impellers are submerged, however they are very sensitive to vibration, and must be
mounted with great care. Pumps can self-destruct in a matter of minutes if vibration is
present. Considerable expertise is required to pull and set these pumps.
4.7.2.2 Submersible
Submersible pumps in water distribution service are typically vertical turbine pumps with
a submersible electrical motor attached. Submersible pumps are most commonly used in
wells. They can be obtained in sizes suitable for a 100mm diameter well. They are most
often sold in high-head versions for pumping from deep wells. They are often used to
supply water to truck fill stations. In that case they are often set in inclined intake shafts.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-7

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.7.2.3 End suction

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
Most of the pumps you see in a typical water treatment plant will probably be end-suction
centrifugal pumps. They consist of a horizontally mounted centrifugal pump coupled to a
driver.
Typical uses for the end-suction pump are transfer of fluid from one process to another,
filling tanks, distribution pumping and pressure boosting stations. These pumps are
typically reliable and easily serviced.
4.7.3 POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT
Positive displacement pumps work by physically moving a small portion of the fluid
from the pump suction to discharge. By repeating this, large quantities of fluid can be
moved. Two types of positive displacement pumps are most common. These are:
Reciprocating, where the fluid is moved by a ‘back and forth’ motion;
Rotary, where the fluid is moved by a rotary motion.
4.7.3.1 Reciprocating (Back and Forth)
The two most common types of reciprocating pump are the piston pump and diaphragm
pump. In these pumps, a piston or diaphragm moves back and forth. Valves admit the
fluid on the downstroke, and move it out of the pump on the upstroke.
The most common uses of reciprocating pumps in water distribution are chemical feed
pumps. The hypochlorite feed pump is most likely a reciprocating pump.
Reciprocating pumps are used for chemical feed as they are precisely controllable. Both
the length of the pump stroke and the number of strokes per minute (stroke rate can be
adjusted). The valves in reciprocating pumps are subject to clogging if dirty fluids are
pumped.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-8

Figure 4-1 Vertical Turbine Pump (Pump Handbook, Karassik et al, McGraw Hill, 1976)
4
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-9

4
Figure 4-2 Submersible Pump (F.E. Meyers Pumps)
Figure 4-3 End Suction Pump (from Pump Handbook, Karassik et al, McGraw Hill,
1976)
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-10

SMALL SYSTEMS
Figure 4-4 Metering Pump (Liquid Metronics Inc.)

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
4.7.3.2 Rotary
Gear pumps are probably the most common type of rotary positive displacement pumps
in water service. In these pumps two intermeshed gears rotate in opposite directions,
moving small pockets of fluid from the intake to the discharge.
The most common service for these pumps is moving chemical slurries.
Figure 4-5 Gear Pump (from Pump Handbook, Karassik et al, McGraw-Hill, 1976)
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-11

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.7.4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
Each type of pump operates best under a certain range of conditions. Vertical turbine
pumps, with multiple impellers, are suited to high lift (pressure) applications such as
lifting water from a well, or pressurizing a distribution network. Piston pumps are good
for chemical feed metering.
The design conditions must be considered when selecting a pump. When replacing a
pump, it is usually best to replace it with the same model, unless there is good reason for
a change. For new installations, pump selection can be a bit bewildering at times. Don’t
forget to ask for help if you need it.
4.7.5 SUCTION CONDITIONS
The two main suction conditions are: suction lift, where the pump suction (inlet to the
pump) impeller is above the water surface, and flooded suction, where the water level is
above the pump suction.
Generally the flooded suction condition has fewer operating problems, when it is suitable,
however it cannot always be used. Examples of a flooded suction are submersible pumps
and pumps that are mounted near the bottom of a full tank. Vertical turbine and
submersible pumps are also flooded suction pumps, as the inlet to the first impeller is
below the water surface.
Figure 4-6 Flooded Suction
Suction lift situations can cause problems if not properly designed. Self-priming pump
installations are preferred in most cases. It is possible to set up a priming mechanism,
however they are often unreliable. Foot valves are also unreliable. Any little bit of grit
can cause a foot valve to not completely close, and drain back.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-12

4
Figure 4-7 Suction lift
4.7.6 CAVITATION
Cavitation is ‘the formation and subsequent collapse of vapor-filled cavities in a liquid

due to dynamic action’. In other words, bubbles form in the pump due to low pressure
conditions. These bubbles grow until they get too big to sustain themselves. Then they
collapse (implode). The destructive forces generated are considerable, even though the
bubbles are microscopic. They can eat away and destroy the pump impeller very quickly.
Figure 4-8 Cavitation in a pump impeller
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-13

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.8 VALVES
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
4.8.1 USES OF VALVES
The two main uses of valves in a water system are for isolation and control. Some control
valves are used for throttling or metering. These are often referred to as modulating
valves.
4.8.1.1 Isolation valves
Isolation valves are used for shutting off flow in specific parts of the system. In
distribution systems they are used to close specific parts of the system down in case
repair is required. Typically, a distribution system is divided into sections by isolating
valves. A section of the system can be isolated and shut down without closing down the
whole system.
Fire hydrants are a special case where isolating valves are used. They permit an
individual hydrant to be isolated and repaired while the rest of the distribution system
remains in use.
Isolating valves are either open or closed. There are no cases where an isolating valve
should be left in a partially open condition. It is important to know whether a valve is
supposed to be normally-open or normally-closed. This information should be in your
Operations and Maintenance Manual. If not, you should compile a list of valves in the
system and their normal position.
4.8.1.2 Control valves
Control valves are used to control the operation of various system components. An
example is an altitude valve which shuts off the supply pump when the water tower is
full. A pressure reducing valve reduces pressure in down-gradient portions of a
distribution system. A surge suppressor valve reduces the presence of water hammer if
the pump is suddenly shutdown. There are many other examples of control valves, too
many to discuss here.
4.8.1.3 Modulating valves
Modulating valves are a form of a control valve. They are specifically designed to control
flow rate of a liquid. They can throttle the flow to the desired rate. A typical use is to
control the flow of hot water through a boiler in a water heating circuit.
4.8.2 TYPES OF VALVES
There are many types of valves. Only a few of those most commonly used in water
systems are discussed here.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-14

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.8.2.1 Gate valve

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
A gate valve controls flow by means of a gate that slides up and down in the flow
channel. In a water distribution system they are commonly used in underground service,
in conjunction with a valve box that permits operation from the surface of the ground.
Gate valves do not work well in throttling applications. They must be either fully opened
or fully closed. They will wear quickly if used for throttling and they do not provide
satisfactory control if used for throttling.
Gate valves are available in rising stem (RS) or non-rising stem (NRS) styles. In use in a
plant, a RS gate valve provides a visual indication whether it is open or closed. Only NRS
gate valves are suitable for underground use.
Gate vales typically used in water systems provide a flow area of 100% of the pipe area
when open if the same size pipe and valve are used. They do not restrict flow rates.
Figure 4-9 RS Gate Valve - Kitz Valve
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-15

SMALL SYSTEMS
Figure 4-10 NRS Gate Valve - Vogt Valve

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
4.8.2.2 Ball valve
Ball valves use a ball with a port to control flow. The port may be the full diameter of the
valve size, or it may be a reduced port. The valve opens or closes with a 90º turn of the
operating handle. Small ball valves can be opened or closed very quickly. This can cause
water hammer so the valves should usually be closed slowly. Large ball valves typically
require a geared operator that limits the opening/closing speed.
Ball valves can be used for throttling. They are often used as modulating valves. They
can be fitted with motorized operators that are controlled by system signals to automate
the modulation. Ball valves are not usually completely linear in their flow control
characteristics. That means that the same degree of operator turning does not always
produce the same mount of flow change, depending on whether the ball is nearly open or
nearly closed. If this is a concern, specially fitted ball valves can be used. The port shape
is modified in these valves to make them more nearly linear.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-16

SMALL SYSTEMS
Figure 4-11 Ball Valve - Vogt Valve

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
4.8.2.3 Globe valve
Globe valves are constructed with a fixed circular port. A horizontal disk changes the
flow area by rising or closing on the port. They are commonly used for throttling, as the
change in flow rate is nearly linear with the change in disk position. Globe valves are
fairly common in smaller, plumbing sizes and are only used in large sizes where their
special characteristics are required. There is usually a large pressure drop through a globe
valve.
4.8.2.4 Butterfly valves
Butterfly valves are more commonly found in water treatment plants and pumping
stations than in underground distribution systems, although they are sometimes used in
distribution systems where valves are located in vaults rather than directly buried.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-17

4
Figure 4-12 Globe Valve - Kitz Valve Figure 4-13 Butterfly Valve - Centerline Valve
4.8.2.5 Check valve
The purpose of a check valve is to allow flow in only one direction. The most common
types of check valves in a water treatment or distribution system are swing checks and lift
checks. In a swing check valve the disk is hinged and swings from the port. In a lift
check the disk is not hinged, but is guided vertically from the port. A foot valve is a
specialized type of check valve normally used at the bottom of a pump suction line.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-18

4
Figure 4-14 Swing Check Valve - Vogt Valve Figure 4-15 Lift Check Valve - Apco Valve
4.8.3 ALTITUDE VALVES
An altitude valve is typically of many types of control valves. An altitude valve controls
pumping into an elevated storage tank or reservoir, shutting off the flow when the
reservoir is full and starting it when the water level drops to a preset point. They are
operated by means of differential pressure across the valve.
Figure 4-16 - Altitude Valve - Singer Valve
4.8.4 PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE
A pressure reducing valve is another type of control valve. It maintains a constant

downstream pressure, regardless of fluctuations in the upstream pressure or flow. It is
often used to create different pressure zones in areas with considerable changes in
topography. For example, without a pressure reducing valve if the pressure at the top of a
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-19

hill is great enough to provide good service, the pressure at the bottom of the hill might
4
be too great and cause problems.
Figure 4-17 - Pressure Reducing Valve - Singer Valve
4.9 VALVE OPERATION

Valves should be opened and closed slowly to prevent the formation of water hammer.
Water hammer is a pressure wave that is a result of abrupt changes in the flow. This
applies particularly to valves that can be opened or close with an ungeared 90º turn of the
operator. Butterfly valves and ball valves are of this type.
Valves left in one position for long periods of time can become stuck in that position. It is
important to exercise all valves periodically, at least once per year. Other valve
maintenance tasks will be discussed in the Operations and Maintenance Manual, or you
can get information from the manual.
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-20

SMALL SYSTEMS
4.10 REVIEW
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4
1. Why do you impound water?
2. What are some of the operational problems with a reservoir?
3. Why is a metering pimp used for injecting chlorine?
4. What do you look for if the chlorine injection pump won’t work?
5. How do you maintain a valve?
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-21

4
Notes
11/02/07 DRAFT 4-22

SMALL SYSTEMS DISINFECTION
5
5.0 DISINFECTION
5.1 OBJECTIVES
The main objectives of this section are:
The purpose of using chlorine
How chlorine works
Testing chlorine residual
How to test for chlorine
Alternatives to chlorination
5.2 INTRODUCTION
A requirement of the Public Health Regulations, and one of the main roles of any water
treatment plant is disinfection. For the small systems plants, disinfection is done with
chlorine. Therefore, there it is important to have an excellent understanding of how
chlorination works and how to ensure that the water reaching the customer is effectively
free of the harmful microorganisms.
This section discusses chlorination of water for trucked water distribution systems only.
Chlorination of piped water is beyond the scope of this manual.
5.3 GENERAL CONCEPTS

All water supplies, no matter how pure they seem, may contain organisms that cause
diseases. Disease and illness causing organisms are called pathogens. Pathogenic
organisms can be carried and transmitted by water, so dealing with pathogenic organisms
is a major concern of water treatment. Chlorine is added to the water to provide
disinfection. The objective is to reduce the number of pathogenic organisms to levels
where they are no longer harmful to people.
There are two objectives for chlorination: the first is to disinfect the water supply, the
second is to protect the water against recontamination in the water pipe, truck tank,
and/or storage tank. When done properly, a chlorine residual remains. It is this residual
that provides protection while the water is in the storage tanks.
There is a difference between disinfection and sterilization. Sterilization kills all

organisms.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-1

SMALL SYSTEMS
5.4 HOW CHLORINE WORKS

DISINFECTION
5
Chlorine is a compound that will react with many other compounds to produce many
different products. These products complicate the process of chlorination because they
use up some of the chlorine and thus reduce the chlorine available for the disinfection
process.
Because the number and amount of compounds that complicate the disinfection process
varies from place to place and from time to time, the amount of chlorine that must to be
added is always changing. In addition, it takes a certain amount of time for a complete
reaction of the chlorine with these compounds. The reactions generally proceed as
follows:
Chlorine first reacts with compounds such as hydrogen sulphide and iron. No
disinfection occurs. This is the Chemical Demand;
As more chlorine enters the solution, it reacts with organic compounds to form
chloro-organic compounds, which have a slight disinfecting action;
Chlorine used in this way, in steps 1) and 2), is called the chlorine demand.
Adding more chlorine will react with ammonia and other compounds containing
nitrogen to produce chloramines, which have a disinfecting action which is slow
and requires a long contact time;
Chlorine used by this step, 3), is known as the combined chlorine residual;
Adding chlorine, to a certain amount, will destroy the chloramines;
This is called break-point chlorination;
Any excess chlorine added after that is known as free available residual chlorine
as show in Figure 5-1.
In summary:
Chlorine Added (Dose) = Chlorine Demand + Chlorine Residual
Chlorine Residual = Combined Chlorine Residual + Free Available

Chlorine Residual (FAC)
Chlorine is measured as milligrams per litre (mg/L). To determine the needed dose of
chlorine, the chlorine residual needs to be tested.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-2

5
Figure 5-1 Breakpoint chlorination
To treat water from a source that has been proven to be free of pathogenic organisms, the
minimum free chlorine residual is 0.2 mg/L. It is recommended that the treated water be
tested after a contact time of at least 2 hours (although 20 minutes is the legal
requirement.)
If your water treatment facility does not provide any chlorine contact time (storage after
chlorination), the minimum free chlorine residual is 0.4 mg/L.
For water supplies that have not proven to be free of pathogenic organisms, the minimum
free chlorine residual should be 0.5 mg/L following a contact time of at least 20 minutes.
Chlorine residuals in excess of 0.5 mg/L do little to improve disinfection and can cause
unpleasant taste and odour to the water.
5.5 TESTING THE CHLORINE RESIDUAL
5.5.1 FREQUENCY
The chlorine residual provides protection for the water after it has left the treatment plant
and it should be tested three times every delivery day, more often if conditions are
changing.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-3

Water quality in the reservoir or in the natural environment changes with the season, with
5
wind, with rain or, it seems, just because it wants to. Checking the residual will ensure
that you are putting the right amount of chlorine in the water, not too little or too much.
Too little won't do the job, while too much can lead to an unpleasant taste and is
expensive.
Not every truckload has to be checked. However, you should check the first new load in
the morning and make any adjustments that are required and also when the truck that has
been sitting overnight in the garage. If you are having problems it may take more tests
each day until you have the problem remedied.
5.5.2 PROCEDURE
There are many devices to test chlorine, however, the most common is the HACH Pocket
Colourimeter. The following provides the current information for testing for chlorine
residual using the HACH is conducted. If you have a different type of test kit, or if the
instructions you received with your HACH kit are different from these, you must follow
the other instructions.
1. Fill a clean sample cell to the 10-mL mark with the blank solution (usually
untreated sample). Fill another clean sample cell to the 10-mL mark with sample.
2. Add the contents of one pillow of the appropriate DPD chlorine reagent to the cell
containing the sample. Cap and shake the cell for 20 seconds. This is the prepared
sample.
3. Place the blank in the cell compartment. Cover the sample cell with the
instrument cap.
Note: When using the instrument cap as a light shield during measurements, place the
cap with the curved surface toward the keypad. This position will allow the cap to match
the grooves in the instrument case to provide a good seal against stray light.
Press the ZERO key. After approximately 2 seconds, the display will read: 0.00.
Place the sample cell containing the prepared sample into the cell holder and cover with
the instrument cap. Press the READ key. After approximately 2 seconds, the display will
indicate the chlorine concentration in milligrams per liter (mg/L). For example: 1.15 on
the display means 1.15 mg/L as Cl2.
The test for FAC is done immediately, then you have to wait three minutes to test for
total. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure of your results.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-4

5
The Combined Residual = Total Residual - Free Residual
Record the test results.
Experience has shown the chlorine reading should be taken immediately after the tablet
has dissolved. As time passes, chloramines in the water tend to react with the DPD
chemical and give a false reading.
Because test kits may be different, make sure you have read and that you understand the
test procedure for your test kit. If you don’t understand something about your test kit,
make sure you ask your EHO or someone from Public Works and Services or Municipal
and Community Affairs for help.
5.6 REGULATORY REQUIREMENT

The Public Health Regulations require that water delivered to the consumer contain a
minimum free available chlorine (FAC) residual of 0.2 mg/L after 20 minutes of contact
time.
5.7 OPERATIONAL GOALS

The FAC must be greater than 0.2 mg/L after 20 minutes. If you can consistently achieve
this and still have a measurable residual in household water storage tanks – great. But
what if you miss 0.2 mg/L in a truckload, or if there’s no trace of chlorine in the water
tanks?
Remember that chloramines, the combined portion, is also a powerful disinfectant. In

fact some communities purposely use chloramines as protection in water storage or in
long pipeline. The recommended level for chloramines is 0.3 mg/L
Therefore, say you have slightly less than 0.2 mg/L (and you have probably already
delivered half the truck). Certainly, you should go right away and increase the chlorine
dosing rate, but what about the rest of the truck? Well, practically, if the total residual
chlorine exceeds 0.2 mg/L, then deliver it. If not dump it on the land, not a river or a lake
other than water lake, and get another load. And get the FAC right in this one.
If you are having trouble keeping your FAC above 0.2 mg/l or retaining a trace of FAC in
water tanks then you should increase the FAC. This is usually the case in most
communities and so it is recommended that you try 0.3 mg/L as an operational goal.
If you have to go much higher than this you probably have something else wrong and
should consult with your EHO.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-5

SMALL SYSTEMS
5.8 WHERE AND WHEN TO TAKE CHLORINE TESTS

DISINFECTION
5
Operators not only have to ensure that the water they deliver is chlorinated, they should
also ensure that it stays chlorinated while in the water tank to provide lasting protection.
The foremost responsibility of the operator is to take water samples from the water truck
and ensure that there is a minimum of 0.2mg/L free available chlorine residual after 20
minutes.
The pulsing action of the metering pump means that the chlorine is not mixed in the
truckfill arm. Water samples should never be taken from the truckfill arm unless there is a
static mixer on the arm.
Operators should also sample one or more water storage tanks at least once per week.,
more often if there are problems. The water storage tank chosen for sampling should be
typical of household storage tanks, for example, the Hamlet Office or your own house.
The chlorine residual in the water tank should be tested just before a delivery because at
that time the water tank will have the smallest amount of chlorine. There should be a
measurable trace of chlorine remaining.
If your community is on three times per week delivery, water will be in storage for up to
three days before a delivery. Therefore, you should plan to test according to the delivery
schedule.
5.9 INTERPRETING THE TEST RESULTS FROM TRUCKS

Your truck test results could be recorded as follows. Assume the water treatment facility
provided NO contact time or storage post chlorination.
Sample Date Time Storage Free Cl2 Combined

Location Length Cl2
Truck A Sept 1 09:00 900 ml 0.5 mg/l 0.02 mg/l
Truck B Sept 10 09:00 900 ml 0.1 mg/l 0.3 mg/l
Truck C Sept 10 09:30 900 ml 0.7 mg/l 0.1 mg/l
Truck D Oct 13 09:00 900 ml 2.0 mg/l 0.05 mg/l
Truck E Oct 13 09:30 900 ml 0.3 mg/l 0.01 mg/l
Truck A is just fine - continue to add this amount of chlorine each day unless things
change.
Truck B has the combined residual higher than the free residual. This means that there
was not enough chlorine added to the truck. It's Okay to deliver this load because the
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-6

total residual chlorine is 0.3 mg/l, but add more chlorine (try 900 ml + 100 ml - no more!)
5
to the next load because you want to have a minimum of 0.2 mg/l FAC. Test the residual
again and record the results again as we did with Truck C.
Truck C has just a bit too much free chlorine (you wanted 0.5 mg/L). It's Okay to deliver
this load but put a little less (try 900 ml - 25 ml) in the next load, which of course you are
going to test again – and record!
Oops! Truck D has far too much chlorine. Do the test again. Is it the same? Then, DO
NOT deliver this load. Dump the load back into the reservoir if you can and try again
with less chlorine (try 450 ml) and test the residual again as we did with Truck C.
You should also ask yourself why the result was so high. Did you:
Measure the first dose incorrectly?
Mix up a new batch of hypochlorite solution incorrectly?
Start using new HTH powder (the last powder was old and had lost its strength)?
Forget you changed from regular bleach to high strength bleach?
Truck E is a bit low (you wanted 0.5 mg/l) but it will be Okay. Add a bit more to the first
truck (try 900 ml + 25 ml) before you fill it and test again.
With practice, you will be able to hit 0.5 free residual right on every time.
Remember that you want the free chlorine residual greater than the combined chlorine
residual. Under normal circumstances this will always occur. Don't worry about the
number you get for combined residual unless it is above 0.5 mg/L.
Test on different trucks and if you get more than one test with a combined residual about
0.5 mg/L, then contact you EHO immediately. Something has caused a large amount of
organic material to go into the water and it should be investigated.
5.10 INTERPRETING THE TEST RESULTS FROM WATER TANKS

Your water tank test results could be recorded as:
Sample Date Time Storage Free Cl2 Combined

Location Length Cl2
Office Oct 10 09:00 3 days 0.2 mg/l 0.1 mg/l
Office Jun 10 09:00 2 days 0.05 mg/l 0.0 mg/l
Office August 15 09:00 2 days 0.0 mg/l 0.0 mg/l
The Office on October 10 is just fine.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-7

The Office on June 10 is starting to get low but it should be Okay for a while.
5
However, the Office on August 15 has no residual. Do the test again. If it is the same
ask yourself these questions:
Did the delivered water have enough chlorine residual?
When was the last time the truck was washed out?
When was the last time the Office tank was washed out?
A clean water tank should be able to store water for two or three days and maintain a
measurable trace of chlorine if the truck was clean and if enough chlorine was put in the
truck in the first place. If some residual cannot be maintained in the water tank, then the
amount of chlorine in the truck should be increased. Try maintaining a residual of 0.7
mg/l in the truck and see what that does.
If you have to increase the chlorine residual above 1.5 mg/l in a clean truck to maintain
0.2 mg/l in a clean water tank, then this information and your records should be provided
to the Regional Environmental Health Officer.
Guideline for chlorine residual in trucks:
For facilities with contact time or storage post-chlorination, more than

0.2 mg/L after 20 minutes,
OR
For facitilites with NO contact time or storage post-chlorination, more

than 0.4 mg/L after 20 minutes,
OR
For facilities with NO contact time or storage post-chlorination, where

the water truck has sat over night, more than 0.2 mg/L for a water truck.
No more than 0.7 mg/L.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-8

5
5.11 MAKING CHLORINE SOLUTIONS WITH HYPOCHLORITE
5.11.1 SOURCES OF CHLORINE
There are two common sources of chlorine injected into water supplies to disinfect it.
They are:
Calcium Hypochlorite;
Sodium Hypochlorite, also known as liquid bleach.
The other source of chlorine is chlorine gas, which is not commonly used in small
systems plants. Properties of the varying chlorine sources are shown in Table 5-1.
Calcium Hypochlorite is also known as HTH (High Test Hypochlorite). It is
manufactured in either a tablet, liquid, powder or granular form. Over time, HTH will
lose its strength. It can lose up to 10% of its strength in a year.
Should it get wet, it will lose its strength much more rapidly. As it deteriorates it gives off
heat. If it comes in contact with an oily rag or cardboard, a fire could result. HTH must be
kept dry and separate from other materials.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
Water should be first placed in the mixing barrel and then the HTH should be
added. HTH should never be placed in the mixing barrel first and the water
added, to avoid dangerous spraying or spilling of chemicals.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
You must avoid contact with the HTH dust because it turns into an acid when it
gets wet and it will burn your skin and your eyes. If you breathe it in, it will burn
your nasal passages and your lungs. You must wear rubber gloves, a rubber
apron, and nose and eye protection when you are working with the dry
chemical or the mixed solution. There must also be a proper eyewash facility
nearby.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-9

5
Table 5-1 Properties of the 3 types of chlorine used in water treatment
Calcium Hypchlorite Sodium Hypochlorite Chlorine Gas

(Powdered HTH) (Liquid Bleach)
Properties HTH is a white powder Sodium hypochlorite or Chlorine gas is greenish-

that is reactive with liquid bleach is a clear or yellow gas with a
powdered metals, acids, yellow liquid that usually sickening odour.
organics (such as skin), comes in 4.5% (Javex) and Stored as a compressed
nitrogenous substances, 12.5% concentrations. gas, it is extremely toxic
alcohols and other Reactive with powdered and corrosive when in
reducing agents. metals, acids, organics, contact with moisture.
HTH is not combustible nitrogenous substances, Highly reactive with
on its own, but can alcohols and soaps. powdered metals, acids,
readily cause fires and Corrosive, especially the hydrocarbons and
explosions as a result of 12.5% bleach. nitrogenous substances.
chemical mixing. Degrades when exposed to Non-combustible on its
Corrosive when exposed temperatures above 21C. own.
to moisture. Non-combustible on its
own.
Method of Added to water to form a Added directly to treatment Injected as a gas and
injection disinfecting solution that stream. dissolved into the treatment
is added to the treatment stream.
stream.
General Wear gloves, goggles, Wear gloves, goggles, Full self-contained NIOSH
Safety apron and particulate apron and mask. approved breathing
mask. apparatus, gloves, goggles
Always add powder to and apron required.
water and never water to Never change gas tanks
the powder. when you are alone.
Never operate a gas
chlorination system unless
properly trained.
Shelf Life 1 year 3 months Indefinite
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-10

5
To mix the dry powder for a 1% solution, it is placed into a separate mixing barrel.
The solution should be allowed to sit in the mixing barrel until a white coloured layer
forms on the bottom of the barrel. This is a binding agent used to hold the chlorine in the
powder form. Once the chlorine is in solution, the liquid above the sediment layer is
slowly siphoned into the feed barrel. The sediment left in the mixing barrel should be
thrown out because it will clog the chemical feed pump and the small tubing.
Sodium Hypochlorite is also known as liquid bleach. Two types are available: a high
strength 12%; or regular strength 4.5% bleach (Javex or Purex are two trade names)
available in any grocery store. Unlike HTH, bleach can be mixed directly into the mixing
barrel without fear of clogging the pump or the tubing. Sodium hypochlorite deteriorates
very rapidly (60 to 90 days), especially when exposed to light, and so it should be stored
in a cool, dry, dark area
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
You must wear rubber gloves, a rubber apron, and nose and eye protection
when you are working with sodium hypochlorite.
A 1% chlorine solution is made by mixing hypochlorite with water as follows:
Hypochlorite Stock Available Chlorine Amount Stock + water
Bleach (Javex) 4.5% 25 litres + 100 litres
Sodium Hypochlorite 12% 10 litres + 120 litres
Calcium Hypochlorite 74% 2 litres + 130 litres

(or 8 cups in 30 gallons)
Now assuming the demand plus the residual equals 2.0 mg/l, the 1% hypochlorite
solution is injected into the water as the truck is being loaded at the rate of 900 ml per
4540 litres and then either increased or decreased to produce the correct residual
Why do you want to use a 1% solution for injection? There are four reasons:
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-11

1. You do not want water moving too slowly through the tubing or else the tubing
5
will become clogged and you will have to do additional maintenance;
2. If the hypochlorite solution is too strong, you may have difficulty in controlling
the residual as a very small amount of solution can make a big change in the
residual; and
3. You want to operate the pump within its operating range; if the hypochlorite
solution is too weak, you will have to pump a lot of solution. This means that you
may not be able to put enough in the truck during the fill cycle to get the residual
you want.
4. You will have to make up solution much more often, which will take you away
from other duties.
From experience, a 1% solution seems to solve all these problems most of the time.
What if you have to add the hypochlorite directly from the bottle to the truck?
If hypochlorite is added directly from the bottle to each truck (make sure you add the
hypochlorite before the truck is filled to ensure good mixing) and further assuming that
the chlorine demand is 1.5 mg/l and you hope to achieve a 0.5 mg/l chlorine residual:
Then either increase or decrease to produce the correct residual.
Hypochlorite Stock Available Amount per full truck load

Chlorine (4540 l)
Bleach (Javex) 4.5% 200 ml
Sodium Hypochlorite 12% 75 ml
Calcium Hypochlorite 74% 15 ml or 3 Tablespoons
5.11.2 CALCULATING THE CHLORINE DOSE
Here is the mathematical equation so you can calculate the chlorine dose yourself. This
general equation is the fundamental relationship of the conservation of mass, which
means mass cannot be made or destroyed.
V1 x C1 = V2 x C2
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5
Where: V1 is the volume of liquid chlorine (litres)
C1 is the chlorine concentration of the hypochlorite solution (mg/L)
V2 is the volume of the final solution (for example 4500 litres)
C2 is the chlorine concentration of the final solution (mg/L)
Example 1:
How much HTH powder do you have add to the mixing barrel to make a 1% stock
solution?
Answer:
V1 is what amount of HTH you are trying to determine.
C1 is the concentration HTH - 74%.
V2 is the volume of the mixing barrel - 130 litres
C2 is the chlorine concentration of the final solution - 1%
Now you have a value for all but one of the factors in the equation.
Substituting in the general equation we get:
V1 x 74% = 130 litres x 1%
Note that your units are correct on both sides of the equation.
130Lx1%
V1 =
74%
V1 = 1.75 litres, say 2 litres for ease of measurement
Therefore, mix 2 litres of HTH powder in 130 litres of water to make a 1% chlorine
solution.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-13

5
Example 2:
How much bleach do you add to the 4500 litre water truck to get a 0.5 mg/L chlorine
residual?
Answer:
V1 is the amount of bleach you are trying to determine.
C1 is the concentration of the bleach (it's written on the bottle) 4.5%.
V2 is the volume of the truck - 4500 litres
C2 is the chlorine concentration of the final solution (mg/L) where the concentration is the
sum of the:
chlorine demand + chlorine residual
For now, assume the demand is 1.5 mg/L
Therefore, C2 is 1.5 mg/L + 0.5 mg/L = 2.0 mg/L
Now we have a value for all but one of the factors in the equation.
Substituting in the general equation we get:
V1 x 4.5% = 4500 litres x 2.0 mg/L
But you cannot solve this problem yet because the chlorine concentration C1 is in percent
and it should be in mg/L. What is 4.5% in mg/L?
A percent is the amount per one hundred. So, 4.5% is:
4.5 parts per 100
A rule of thumb is 1 mg/L is the same as 1 part per million (ppm). If 4.5% is 4.5 per 100,
how much is that per million? You can determine this by using a simple ratio. You write
the ratio like this:
4.5 ?
=
100 1,000,000
Rearranging this equation to solve for ?, you get:
4.5 × 1,000,000
?=
100
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SMALL SYSTEMS
? = 45,000
DISINFECTION
5
Therefore, 4.5% is equal to 45,000 parts per million. Recalling 1 mg/L is the same as 1
part per million, then 4.5% is equal to 45,000 mg/L.
Now substituting in the equation we get:
V1 x 45,000 mg/L = 4500 litres x 2.0 mg/L
Rearranging this equation to solve for V1, we get:
4500 L × 2.0mg / L
V1 =
45,000mg / L
V1 = 0.200 litres
or, 200 millilitres
Therefore, we need to add 200 millilitres of bleach in the water truck to have a 0.5 mg/L
chlorine residual.
5.11.3 CALCULATING THE CHLORINE DEMAND
Is it important to know the chlorine demand of your water? Yes. A high chlorine
demand, say greater than 5 mg/L is an indication there may be some additional chlorine
consuming material in the water which may lead to either a taste or some other problem.
If this is the case, the Regional Environmental Health Officer should be notified.
The chlorine demand can be determined from the conservation of mass equation.
V1 x C1 = V2 x C2
Example: We add 250 millilitres of 4.5% bleach to each 4500 litre water truck. The
chlorine residual is 0.5 mg/L. What is the chlorine demand?
Answer:
V1 is 250 ml which is 0.25 litres
C1 is the 4.5% bleach - recall this is 45,000 mg/L
V2 is the volume of the truck - 4500 litres
C2 is the chlorine demand plus the chlorine residual.
Therefore, C2 is ? mg/L + 0.5 mg/L
Let's put brackets around this value so we don't confuse the + sign with an x sign.
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-15

SMALL SYSTEMS
(? mg/L + 0.5 mg/L)

DISINFECTION
5
Now substituting in the equation we get:
0.25 litres x 45,000 mg/L = 4500 litres x (? mg/L + 0.5 mg/L)
All the units are correct so we can rearrange the equation to solve for?
(? mg / L + 0.5mg / L ) = 0.25L × 45,000mg / L

4500 L
0.25L × 45,000mg / L
? mg / L =
4500 L
? mg / L = 2.0 mg / L
Therefore, the chlorine demand for our example water is 2.0 mg/L.
5.12 ALTERNATIVES TO CHLORINATION

Chlorination is the most widely used form of disinfection for water supplies in North
America, however there are other processes that will achieve disinfection. Some of these
are more popular in other parts of the world than in North America.
Few of these are:
Iodination;
Ozonation;
Chlorine dioxide;
Ultraviolet disinfection;
Ultrafiltration;
Boiling.
Iodine compounds are occasionally used for disinfecting water, mostly in very small
quantities. It is often used in small kits for disinfecting water during recreational outdoor
activities such as camping. Usually there is a warning against use by pregnant women. It
is not usually used for disinfecting community water supplies.
Ozone is a form of oxygen with the molecular formula O3. It forms when O2 or clean dry
air is exposed to a powerful electric current. In nature, it forms in the upper atmosphere
when lightning passes through the air. Ozone is unstable and changes to O2 shortly after
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-16

its formation. It is a powerful oxidant and one of the most powerful disinfectants
5
available in water treatment.
Ozonation is more common in Europe than in North America. Ozone must be generated
on site and it does not provide a long lasting residual. It is sometimes used in
combination with chlorine. Ozone provides the initial disinfection, while chlorine
provides a long-lasting residual.
Chlorine dioxide has strong oxidizing properties. It is unstable and must be prepared on
site. Chlorine dioxide does not form trihalomethanes with organic material.
Disinfection with ultraviolet (UV) light is accomplished by exposing the water to UV

light. This makes the cells incapable of reproduction. For UV disinfection to work the
water must be clean. UV disinfection can destroy cryptosporidium and giardia as well as
bacteria. However, there is no residual, so secondary disinfection with chlorine may be
required.
Ultrafiltration is simply filtering the water through an extremely fine filter. The filter
would be fine enough to remove bacteria, protozoa and maybe even some viruses.
Viruses range in size from 0.01 micrometre (µm - millionth of a metre) to about 0.05 µm.
Bacteria typically range in size from 3 µm to 30 µm. The water is forced through the
filter by pressure. There is no residual provided, so some chlorination is required.
Boiling or thermal disinfection uses heat to disinfect the water. It is a very common
procedure. Packaged milk sold in Canada is pasteurized by heating it. Boiling kills all
pathogens in water.
Disinfection with chlorine is the most common means of treating water in North
America. It is cost-effective and efficient. Other techniques are usually only used to solve
a problem in special cases.
Remember that chlorine is the only form of disinfection that provides

residual protection in the household or building water tank.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
5.13 REVIEW
DISINFECTION
5
Why should you test for chlorine residual after water has left the
treatment plant?
Why do you use a 1% chlorine solution?
What is the recommended free chlorine residual for water that has been
sitting in a domestic tank for three days? (The community water source
is free of pathogens.)
Estimate the chlorine demand of a water source that is dosed at 2.0

mg/litre and the chlorine residual is 0.2 mg /litre after a 30 minute
contact period.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of sodium hypochloride?
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-18

5
Notes
11/02/07 DRAFT 5-19

SMALL SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE FOR WATER TREATMENT
6
6.0 MAINTENANCE FOR WATER TREATMENT
6.1 OBJECTIVES
Operations and Maintenance Manuals
Cleaning water tanks safely
Inspecting and maintaining water pumps and metering pumps
Record keeping
6.2 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

Your facility should have an operations and maintenance manual. This manual contains a
description of operating and maintenance procedures that you need to follow to keep the
system operating properly. The O&M manual is a large document, usually at least two
large binders. Don’t let the size scare you. It is broken down into several sections that
each contains important information. The Table of Contents for a typical O&M manual
looks like this:
Revision History
Table of Contents
Introduction
Background and Design Data
Schematics and Functional Data
Component Details
1. Operating Procedures
a. Start-up Procedures
b. Normal Operating Procedures
c. Trouble Shooting
d. Special Procedures
e. Built-in Alternatives
f. Special Conditions
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SMALL SYSTEMS
2. Maintenance
MAINTENANCE FOR WATER TREATMENT
6
a. Lubrication Schedules
b. Minor Maintenance Schedule
c. Major Overhaul and Repair Schedule
3. Testing and Certification Data
4. Manufacturer Data and Service
5. Photographs and Drawings
Don’t wait until you have a problem before looking at the O&M manual. Study the
manual and get to know where to find things in it before you have a problem.
The Background and Design Data section lists information that was considered in the
design of the facility. It mentions any special conditions that apply to this facility. It
might help you understand why this type of facility was chosen, instead of the type in the
next community.
The Schematics and Functional Data section shows schematic (simplified) drawings of
the system, and explains the function of the different subsystems. The Component Details
section describes each part of the system.
The Operating Procedures section describes the start-up procedures, normal operating
procedures, emergency procedures, shutdown procedures and any other special
procedures necessary to operate the system. It also describes alternative ways to do things
that may be built in to the system, for example bypassing a broken meter.
The Maintenance section lists all maintenance requirements and schedules for the system
as a whole and individually for each major component. This includes the manufacturer’s
recommendations on maintenance schedules.
Testing and Certification Data contains data from commissioning the facility. The
Manufacturer Data and Service section contains manufacturer’s brochures for each of the
parts in the system and contact information for the manufacturer.
The sections may not be in the same order and might have slightly different names, but
they should all be there. Part of an O & M manual is shown in Addendum C.
You should make copies of the O&M checklist for you truckfill station and use them
regularly. You might want to also compare it to the checklist in Addendum G and go over
it with your Regional MACA or PW&S representative to see if there are any other items
you should be backing as well.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
6.3 CLEANING WATER TRUCK TANKS

6
Water truck tanks must be cleaned once a year or more if required or as directed by your
EHO.
To ensure safe drinking water for the community, water haulage trucks should be cleaned
and disinfected at least twice each year or as required.
If there is excessive rust present in the interior, this may be an indication that the
tank is deteriorating and should be replaced. In the interim, ensure rust is scraped
out and tank is rinsed to remove rust particles.
To clean and sanitize tank and fill hose follow these steps :
Fill the tank with water and add 1 gallon of unscented bleach per 1000 gallons of
water.
Drive the water truck around town to allow for proper mixing and to ensure the
interior comes into contact with the solution. Run some of this solution through
the delivery hose.
Allow this solution stand for at least 30 minutes to ensure proper contact time in
the interior of the tank and hose.
Drain the tank completely, rinse with clean water, and fill with drinking water.
Ensure the hose is rinsed with the disinfected water.
Contact the Health Centre to submit a water sample for bacterial analysis.
Also, please ensure that a bottle of bleach is always carried onboard. This is to
allow for the fill hose nozzle to be cleaned and sanitized periodically during the
day or should it be dropped on the ground. To prepare cleaning and sanitizing
solution mix 2 to 3 caps of bleach in one gallon of water.
If you have any questions, call your EHO.
These precautions MUST be used when cleaning truck tanks:
Wear the proper protective and safety gear; and
Don’t enter the tank unless you are trained to do so.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
6.4 PUMPS AND PUMP MAINTENANCE

6
The pump is the heart of the water delivery system. Without a pump, there is no water.
Always refer to the O&M Manual regarding pump operation and maintenance.
Pumps are designed to operate under conditions as set out by the manufacturer. It is best
to follow these conditions as closely as possible. Recognize that different pumps work
under different circumstances and conditions. Establish the maintenance schedule
recommended by the manufacturer and follow it to the letter.
Until you have operated a pump for many years, you will not know how that pump will
perform under all circumstances and conditions better than the pump manufacturer. As
the pump ages, you will find that it may need more maintenance. There are four basic
rules for pump maintenance:
1. Watch the condition of the pump when it is working properly so that you will
notice when something is wrong.
2. Make certain the pump operates under the condition it was designed for;
3. Develop a maintenance management system and follow a proper maintenance

schedule
4. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
6.4.1 THREE COMMON PROBLEMS WITH PUMPS
6.4.1.1 Corrosion
The number one problem with pumps is rusting and corrosion. NWT waters are often
quite corrosive.
If you follow manufacturer’s maintenance schedule you will see if the pump is becoming
corroded and you will know if and when it is necessary to overhaul the pump. Fixing the
damage in time will reduce downtime for that pump and will avoid the need for a
replacement.
6.4.1.2 Impeller Wear
The second problem in a centrifugal pump is wear to the blades of the impeller. This is
caused by silt and sand. The way you will notice it is that it will take more time to fill the
truck.
Once per month the operator should time and record how long it took to fill the truck. If
the time increases, it means there is a problem and the pump needs to be looked at. If
nothing is done eventually it will stop pumping altogether.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
6.4.1.3 Vibration and Noise

6
Vibration can kill a pump within a few hours. Your warning is the increased noise and it
will only get worse, if not repaired. If the pump was running properly and has now
become noisy it is a sign that something serious is wrong.
It could be that bolts have come loose, but if you simply tighten them you may cause a
misalignment that will damage the pump even more. Or, a blade on the impeller may
have broken. In either case, use the pump as little as you can and get a skilled service
technician to repair the pump as soon as possible.
6.4.2 TROUBLESHOOTING CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS
The centrifugal pumps were mentioned in 4.6.2. Here is a troubleshooting guide. You
can fix many problems but use your judgement. Always refer to the O&M Manual
regarding pump maintenance. If you cannot fix it, get a trained technician to the site as
soon as possible.
1. Pump fails to deliver liquid
No electricity
No liquid
Suction or discharge line blocked
Suction or discharge valve blocked
Impeller clogged
Incorrect direction of rotation (sometimes there can be electrical problems that

cause the pump to run backwards. If this is the case, call in the power company or
a skilled electrician.)
2. Pump does not pump enough
Check list 1.
Air leaks in suction line
Worn seal rings
Check valves not operating properly
Damaged impeller
Loss of prime
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SMALL SYSTEMS
3. Vibration and noise

6
Misalignment
Unstable foundation, loose anchor bolts
Material in pump causing imbalance
Worn bearings
Bent shaft
Damaged impeller
Loose valve fitting in line
6.4.3 TROUBLESHOOTING METERING PUMPS
The metering pump is the one you use to pump chlorine. A diagram of a metering pump
is shown in Figure 4.8. Here is a troubleshooting guide, which will address the most
common problems.
1, Pump fails to deliver liquid
no electricity
no liquid
suction or discharge line blocked
suction or discharge valve blocked
too much suction lift (pump too far away from liquid it is trying to suck)
automatic ball valve on intake or discharge not closing properly
2. Pump does not pump enough
check list 1)
leaks around plunger
leaks around diaphragm
stroke too short
automatic ball valves leaking
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SMALL SYSTEMS
3. Vibration and noise

6
misalignment
unstable foundation, loose anchor bolts
unbalance in the pump one or more plunger not working
worn bearings, bent shaft, damaged coupling
loose fittings on line valves
Note: You can probably fix these things yourself and you should do so right away
before more damage occurs.
You should have a spare metering pump in case it fails. Then it can be placed in service.
Your O&M manual will have all the information you need to rebuild the mechanical
portion of the pump. Electrical problems will require a trained technician.
6.5 TAKING WATER SAMPLES
6.5.1 TYPES OF SAMPLES – REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLES
Errors in sampling can lead to costly and potentially dangerous decisions. Sample
volumes are minute in comparison to the volume of water they are taken to represent. The
goal of representative sampling is to have the one litre sample removed from the
1,000,000 litre sample site be identical to the 999,999 litres that remain. In practice, the
sample may not be a perfect representation, but its results can be used to make
competent, cost effective decisions.
There are two types of samples:
Grab samples – discrete, depth integrated; and
Composite samples – time dependent, flow proportional.
There are several factors to consider when taking a representative sample:
Is the water at the site homogeneous?
How fast do the conditions change?
Are there daily or seasonal fluctuations?
11/02/07 DRAFT 6-7

Many sites can be sampled according to the following categories:

6
Table 6-1 Representative Samples
Sample Site Representative Sample Frequency
Deep well Discrete grab Once a year
Shallow well Discrete grab Summer, winter, spring –

more frequently if
influenced by surface water,
Deep lake Depth integrated grab Summer, winter, spring
Shallow lake Discrete grab Summer, winter, spring
Flowing river Discrete grab Monthly, more frequently

during freshet
Treated Drinking Water for Discrete grab As required by the EHO

Compliance
Treated Drinking Water for Discrete grab As required by conditions

Due Diligence and your confidence in and
knowledge of the system.
6.5.2 BACTERIOLOGICAL SAMPLES
According to the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality, bacteriological

samples should be taken at least 4 times a month.
When taking water samples in order to get reliable results you must use proper techniques
and be very careful. You do not want the sample to include something other than the
water itself. Thus you must wash and dry your hands before touching the bottle. Even
though you have washed your hands, there still may be bacteria present. Once you have
removed the bottle cap do not touch the mouth or inside edges of the bottle and do not let
the surface of the bottle cap touch anything. If it touches something this small amount of
contamination could cause an error in the test.
If contamination is found in the water, (even if error is suspected), the EHO may have no
choice but to issue a “Boil Water Order”, until new samples can be taken to prove the
water is safe. A Boil Water Order is a very serious event that can cause a lot of
embarrassment for the community if issued as a result of an error.
There are seven important parts to the process of sampling:
11/02/07 DRAFT 6-8

1. Wash your hands. You could, with out even knowing, contaminate the water
6
sample.
2. Put on a new pair of disposable latex surgical gloves. Make sure they are the
powderless kind.
3. Take the sample at the time called for. For example, chlorine residual must be
taken after at least 20 minutes has passed to ensure a minimum contact time. If
you take the sample too soon, you will get an incorrect result, and you could end
up putting too much chlorine into the water.
4. Use the correct sample bottle. The bottles must be sterile. Bottles are obtained
from the nursing station.
The bottle you should use should contain a solution or a crystal of sodium
thiosulphate which will neutralize the effects of the chlorine. If chlorine remains
in the solution, it will continue to kill bacteria and the sample will give a false
reading.
DO NOT rinse the bottle.
The tap should be run for at least two minutes before the sample is taken to flush
water that may have been standing for a long time from the pipes. The bottle cap
is removed just before the sample is taken and replaced immediately after. Never
put the bottle cap down. The bottle is held under the tap and slowly filled until
the level almost reaches the top.
5. Do not over fill the bottle. There should be a small air space remaining in the
bottle.
6. Complete a sampling record form for each sample bottle and make sure that the
bottle and the form are cross-referenced or even tied together. It is important to
know where each and every sample came from.
Contact your Environmental Health Officer for details on sample points and
sampling information for your community.
7. Ship the sample to the laboratory in the approved container. It must arrive at the
lab and the test started within 24 hours for the results to be meaningful.
Sometimes samples are simply returned to the nursing station. Each community is
different so make sure you know what to do with the sample before it is collected.
6.5.3 CHEMICAL SAMPLES
Chemical samples are supposed to be taken annually until there are three consistent years
of data with no exceedances, at which point sampling can be done once every two years
11/02/07 DRAFT 6-9

and confirmed with your EHO. Water samples are normally taken of the untreated water,
6
and the treated water.
The treated water is taken because the chemicals used in the treatment process can form
with compounds in the water to make undesirable chemicals. Or, water treatment
chemicals can leave residuals (such as too much aluminium) in the finished water above
desirable levels.
Samples are taken in much the same way as for bacteriological samples except the 24
hour limit is not required. Because this type of sampling is not done routinely, detailed
sampling instructions usually come with the sample bottles. Do not take any samples
until you have read the instructions.
6.5.4 LABORATORY REQUIREMENTS
Not all laboratories use identical analytical methods. Therefore, each laboratory will
issue instructions on how which type of sample bottle to use, how to preserve the sample
if required, and how to store and ship the sample.
Before taking any sample, call the lab you intend to use for instructions.
Many samples must be kept cold. Plastic pop or water bottles, filled with water and
frozen, make great, cheap and disposable ice packs for sample coolers.
6.6 WATER TANKS

Water tanks should have an access hatch on the top and a drain valve on the bottom. If
these do not exist, see if the tank can be retrofitted with a hatch and a drain valve, or if
there is some other way to gain access to the tank. Before starting a retrofit, consult the
Department of Health for permission. Contact your EHO.
As noted previously, one or more water tanks in a community should be tested weekly. If
testing shows bacterial growth, or an absence of any chlorine residual, tanks should be
tested more frequently. You need to find out the reason for the lack of chlorine or the
bacterial growth. Ask for help from your Environmental Health Officer to determine the
cause and fix the problem right away.
In communities where water tanks are used in public buildings, the Community Systems
Operator must clean these tanks at least once a year. Even the cleanest water contains
dissolved minerals, such as iron, and non-pathogenic organisms that can form a layer of
scum on the inside of water tanks. This scum will affect the taste and odour of the water,
and over time, can even affect its quality.
Instructions For Cleaning and Disinfecting Water Storage Tanks
11/02/07 DRAFT 6-10

Cleaning and disinfecting your water holding tank at least once a year will prevent slime,
6
algae, and bacterial growth and will help prevent the build-up of sediments. In
communities where the water supply has high levels of sediments at certain times of the
year, cleaning more often is recommended. A clean water tank helps make water taste
better and reduces the risk of illness. The following are instructions for cleaning and
disinfecting your water storage tank.
Shut off valve to distribution lines and drain all the water from the tank.
Wash and remove dirt from inside surfaces of the tank by means of a high-pressure hose.
Drain the wash water and sediment from the bottom of the tank. Remaining sediment can
be vacuumed out if access is available. DO NOT ENTER THE TANK.
Rinse the inside surfaces of tank with clean, potable water and again drain the wash
water.
Disinfect the inside surfaces of the tank and the household distribution lines as follows:
Add 5 ml of liquid bleach for every liter of water the tank will hold. For
example, a 1,000 liter capacity tank will require five (5) liters of bleach.
Fill the tank with clean, potable water. Mix well.
Open the valve to the distribution line.
Run water out of all water taps in the distribution lines until the smell of chlorine is
detected at the tap. Shut off all the taps and the distribution valve.
Add more potable water to the water tank until it is full.
Let the chlorine solution sit in the tank and distribution system for at least four (4) hours
and overnight if possible.
Drain tank completely and re-fill with fresh potable water.
Open the valve to the distribution lines and run water from all the taps until there is no
smell of chlorine. You can then resume normal usage.
Tank washings should be disposed in the sewage lagoon.
Contact your EHO for more information.
Remember, tanks are ‘confined spaces’, and you need special training to enter a confined
space. There could be a lack of oxygen or a build-up of other gases in the tank. Even if
the tank is safe, by entering it you will be introducing dirt, and perhaps pathogens.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
For Your Own Safety

6
Special training is required before entering a ‘confined space’.
Operators must NOT get inside the tank to clean it unless properly trained. All
cleaning operations must be conducted from outside the tank.
That said, it might not be possible to clean the tank from outside if it is very large. Get
the proper training if you need to work in tanks.
For Your Own Safety
The operator must wear appropriate safety clothing and safety lenses when
working with the chlorine solution.
For Your Own Safety
Ammonia must NOT be used to clean the tank. In combination with chlorine, it
produces a deadly gas.
6.7 RECORDS KEEPING

Community Works Operators must keep records of
All tests
Inspections
Preventive maintenance
Repairs
Operational procedures
11/02/07 DRAFT 6-12

These records are proof that work is being done correctly. The Government of the NWT
6
Department of Health and Social Services needs this information to ensure that basic
health needs are being met and, in the case of an epidemic, to determine if the source of
any problems with health in the community can be related to the drinking water.
Communities who use the Community Works Management System (CWMS) will find
record keeping an easier task. Community Works Management System Task
Descriptions are appended in Addenda G, H and I.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
6.8 REVIEW
6
1. Why shouldn’t you use ammonia to clean tanks?
2. Why do you wash your hands before taking a water sample?
3. Name five things you can find in the O & M manual
4. Why do you not get in a water tank? Give two reasons.
5. What are common problems with pumps? Give three.
6. If a pump normally runs properly, but then becomes noisy, what might
be wrong?
11/02/07 DRAFT 6-14

7. Name three reasons a centrifugal pump might not pump enough?

6
8. In what section in an O & M manual would you find start-up

procedures?
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6
Notes
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SMALL SYSTEMS SAFETY FOR WATER TREATMENT
7
7.0 SAFETY FOR WATER TREATMENT
7.1 OBJECTIVES
The trainee will be able to:
1. Name three personal hazards common to treatment plants.
2. Recall the safety measures to follow when working in or around:
a) Wet Wells
b) Chlorine Buildings
c) The Laboratory
d) Plant and equipment during servicing.
7.2 INTRODUCTION
The dangers associated with plant operations emphasize the need for safety practices.
Physical injuries and body infections are a continuous threat and occur with regularity.
Explosions and asphyxiation from gases or oxygen deficiency do occur. Although rare in
the North, country-wide such accidents happen daily.
Water treatment plant occupational hazards may be largely avoided by following safe
practices and the use of safety equipment. The dangers are many and carelessness happens
all too frequently until an accident happens. Then it is too late.
It is the responsibility of supervisors to get to know the hazards associated with plant
maintenance and operation and to take steps to avoid them. Accident prevention is the
result of thoughtfulness and the application of a few basic principles and knowledge of the
hazards involved.
It has been said that the ABC of accident prevention is "Always Be Careful". One must
learn how to be careful and what to avoid.
7.3 WORKERS COMPENSATION BOARD

With safety, the ultimate requirements and regulations come from the Workers
Compensation Board (WCB) of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Know the
regulations as applicable to your job and employ them in your everyday work. The WCB
maintains a vast library of Operational Health and Safety manuals, which are at your
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-1

disposal. The information on how to retrieve these manuals can be found on their website
7
which is included in Addendum F.
7.4 CONFINED SPACES

A space is strictly defined by the NWT’s Safety Act as a “bin, pipeline, pit, sewer, silo,
tank, tunnel, utilities vault, vat, vessel or other enclosed or partially enclosed space having
restricted access and egress and which, owing to its design, construction, location,
atmosphere, the materials or substances in it or other conditions, is or may become
immediately dangerous to the life of health of a worker required to enter it”.
Confined spaces can be very dangerous areas in which to work and therefore, special
training and certification is required that is separate to this course. You cannot work in a
confined space unless the oxygen content is more than 18% under normal atmospheric
pressure and the area is free of respiratory contaminants, unless some sort of WCB
approved respiratory device is provided. Atmospheric tests must be done in advance to
entering the space. In addition, proper rescuer equipment must be available as well as
another person in order to assist you if required.
For more information on working in confined spaces as applicable to water treatment,

consult with the WCB and the NWT’s Safety Act.
You cannot work in a confined space unless you are properly trained to do
so and have assured the necessary safety measures to work safety.
7.5 HAZARDS
The overall dangers of accidents are much the same whether in manholes, pumping stations
or treatment plants. These result from:
Body infections;
Physical injuries; and
Dangerous noxious gases or vapours, oxygen deficiencies and hazardous chemicals.
7.6 BODY INFECTION

Workers in treatment plants are exposed to the hazards of water-borne diseases, including
typhoid fever, amoebic dysentery, infectious jaundice and other intestinal infections.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-2

Tetanus and skin infections must also be guarded against. Typhoid and tetanus inoculations
7
are recommended. These may be obtained free of charge from local Health Officers.
A majority of infections reach the body by way of the mouth, nose, eyes and ears.
Therefore, washing your hands is a must before eating or smoking. Wear protection gloves
where possible.
This hazard to plant personnel, although very real and ever present can be largely reduced
by the operator himself by following a few basic rules of personal hygiene. A few of these
self-applied rules are as follows:
1. Never eat your lunch or put anything into your mouth without first washing your
hands.
2. Refrain from smoking while working in open tanks, on pumps, or cleaning out grit
channels, etc. Remember you inhale or ingest the filth that collects on the cigarette
from dirty hands. Save your smoking time for lunch hours or at home.
3. A good policy is "never put your hands above your collar when working on plant
equipment".
4. Rubber or rubberized cotton gloves, rubber boots and coveralls are designed for
body protection against dampness and contact with dirt. Wear them at all times
when working in tanks, etc.
5. Rubberized or rain suits can be worn in very wet or dirty places and can be washed
off with a hose and brush, the same as rubber boots.
6. Always wear your rubber boots when working in tanks, washing down etc., don't
wear your street shoes.
7. Don't wear your rubber boots or coveralls in your car or at home. You could bring
more home with you than you think.
8. Always wear rubber or plastic coated gloves when cleaning out pumps, handling
hoses, etc.
9. Don't just wash your hands before going home, wash your face too, there is as much
of your face to carry germs as there is of your hands. Soaps that don’t need to be
rinsed off are also available, if you find they are more convenient.
10. Wear a hat when working around sludge tanks, cleaning out grit and other channels,
don't go home with your head resembling a mop that just wiped up the floor around
a cleaned out pump.
11. Keep your fingernails cut short and clean, they are excellent carrying places for dirt
and germs.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-3

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.7 PHYSICAL INJURIES – FIRST AID

SAFETY FOR WATER TREATMENT
7
Except for minor injuries, wounds should be treated by a doctor and reported for possible
Workman's Compensation. Service trucks and plants must have first aid kits. It is
recommended that all plant personnel should receive accredited first aid instruction.
It is a WCB regulation that any plant having five (5) or more people working as a group on
any shift, one of them is required to be certified in first aid. Remember, no cut or scratch is
too minor to receive attention.
7.8 THE PLANT SAFETY PROGRAM

Before starting a safety program, the full co-operation and active support of management is
needed. One person in the utility organization must be responsible for the program. In a
small water works system, that person may be the superintendent, while in a larger
organization, another person who can devote part or full time to the job can be appointed.
The next step in setting up the program is to provide for:
1. Keeping injury records;
2. Identification and location of the hazards;
3. Making equipment, plant arrangements and working methods safe;
4. Getting employees interested in safety; and
5. Controlling work habits
7.8.1 INJURY RECORDS
The keeping of injury records is basic to a safety program. With complete records, the
program is given direction and is sure of success. The records should be kept brief but must
contain all pertinent data. The forms should cover such items as:
Accident report;
Description of accident;
Physician's statement;
Corrective action taken;
Accident analysis chart; and
The names of all the people involved in the accident and who performed first aid.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-4

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.8.2 LOCATING THE HAZARDS

7
The person responsible for the safety program should be constantly on the alert for hazards
which may cause an injury to an employee. One of the best methods of attacking this
problem is to search the records for the conditions and situations that have produced
injuries. Records like this show the need for a corrective program.
Many other sources of information on hazardous conditions are available. These include
safety manuals, insurance company brochures, etc. They should be used freely and
frequently.
7.8.3 EQUIPMENT, PLANT ARRANGEMENTS, WORKING METHODS
Nothing prevents an accident as effectively as the elimination of the cause. To preach

safety while permitting unsafe conditions will discourage the cooperation required from
employees. Only when safety is integrated with the job are workers convinced accidents
will be prevented.
7.8.4 PROTECTIVE SAFETY EQUIPMENT
The need for protective safety equipment in an accident prevention program has proven its
value many times; the program cannot be successful if any phase of accident prevention is
overlooked.
Use safety equipment as was it meant to be used. This should be compulsory during the
performance of hazardous jobs.
Protect eyes and face when there is any possibility of injuries from hand tools, power tools,
welding equipment, etc.
Protect feet with safety shoes to safeguard against injuries while breaking pavements,
tamping trenches, handling materials, etc.
Protect head (with hard hats) to prevent serious injuries in construction, excavation or
electrical work.
Protect hands (with gloves) to prevent injuries from occurring when handling materials,
sharp objects, chemicals or electrical equipment.
Use air packs when hazards such as chlorine, painting or dusty areas exist.
Prevent accidents due to falls by using safety belts, scaffolds, etc.
Be aware of and follow the WCB Safety Regulations as they apply to protective equipment.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-5

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.9 GENERAL PLANT SAFETY

7
When working at the plant, observe the following common sense rules:
Keep walkways clear of loose objects such as pails, shovels, loose rope, etc.
Wipe up grease and oil immediately; salt or sand icy walks.
Pick up all tools, clean them and return them to their storage area.
When it is necessary to use tools in an empty tank or manhole, etc., lower them in a pail on
a rope and remove them in the same way brooms and shovels can also be transported by
rope. Do not attempt to climb up and down ladders with your hands full of tools.
Regulations for confined spaces should be followed as applicable.
Do not overload yourself when using stairways. Keep your load small enough to be able to
see over it. Always keep one hand free to use the hand-rail.
Do not try to climb up or down a ladder or over a railing when handling a hose under
pressure.
Always wear hip wader rubber boots with good treaded soles when washing down the floor
of any tank. Do not wear rubber boots with worn soles and heels. Again, regulations for
confined spaces should be followed as applicable.
Always wear the rubber clothing provided when working in a narrow or confined passage
where grit or sludge accumulates.
Always wear rubber or plastic coated, waterproof gloves when cleaning pumps, handling
hoses, removing grit or sludge, etc.
When it is necessary to use an extension ladder to enter any empty tank, use the collector
arms in the clarifiers to backstop the ladder legs. In an aeration tank, lash the ladder. Enter
the tank from a walkway (not from a narrow dividing wall) and always lash the ladder to a
hand-rail.
Always wear hard hats when working below ground level (in tanks, manholes, etc.) or
under scaffolding. Again, regulations for confined spaces should be followed as
applicable.
Maintain signs identifying particularly hazardous areas and the location of first aid
supplies.
Do not hang clothes on electrical disconnect handles, light switches or control panel knobs.
Replace all manhole covers and trap doors to wells. Close after using. If it is necessary to
leave them open, protect them with guard-rails.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-6

Use the proper tool when removing or replacing manhole covers. Do not attempt to move
7
or close a manhole cover with your hands.
Do not pull up grit-filled pails by hands only when removing from tanks or wet wells. Use
rope with an "A" frame and pulley or some other type of support with a pulley. Be sure the
support and pulley are fastened firmly to prevent them from toppling over during use.
Always wear a safety belt with a short rope and a safety snap when leaning out through the
railings over any tank (or cleaning out spray nozzles, etc.)
Be very careful during repair work on fuel systems of gasoline engines. Close the shutoff
valve from the tank and be sure there is adequate ventilation while draining the fuel system.
Check the ventilation of any enclosed or underground areas when gasoline operated pumps
are to be used.
Do not refill a gas engine when in operation or while still hot. Lock out engine before
cleaning out pump unit.
7.9.1 BUILDING MAINTENANCE
Periodic inspections are necessary to eliminate hazards (fire safeguards, etc.). Suggested
repairs for safety should receive immediate attention. Floors, hallways, and stairways
should always be well lit, clean, orderly and free from oil, dirt and debris. Immediate
repairs of hazardous electrical outlets and fixtures should be routine. Adequate sanitary
facilities for employees must be provided. Hand-rails on steps and stairways should always
be provided and used. Good housekeeping must be maintained.
7.9.2 HAND TOOLS
Hand tools are the cause of many accidents and injuries when improperly used and in
unsafe condition. Therefore, use the right tool for the right job in the right way.
Use protective safety equipment where there is a job hazard. Keep the work area clear of
hazards, with plenty of working space for solid footing. Tools should be in good condition
and used for the purpose for which they were intended.
7.9.3 PORTABLE AND POWER TOOLS
All equipment should be grounded. Check wiring and equipment regularly for defects. Be
very careful when using equipment in wet areas. Use protective safety equipment when
operating grinders, buffers, or other tools when there is danger of flying material.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-7

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.9.4 TOOLS AND MACHINES

7
Use protective equipment when operating power equipment if there is any chance of flying
objects or other injuries. Inspect all tools and equipment for safe operation. Necessary
repairs or replacements should be made immediately. Repair power tools and machinery
only when the equipment is turned off.
7.9.5 WELDING
Use the proper protective equipment at all times. Check for fire hazards before cutting or
welding in areas of inflammable or explosive mixtures. Only authorized personnel should
operate welding equipment. Occupational Health & Safety regulations require a 2 3/4 lb.
fire extinguisher be fastened to the welding truck.
7.9.6 INSPECTIONS OF TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
Periodic inspections should be made of tools and equipment so that those that are broken or
worn out may be replaced. Report worn or broken equipment and be sure they are replaced
or repaired as soon as possible.
7.9.7 LADDERS
Ladders should be inspected periodically and maintained in good order. Use safety belts
when awkward positions are necessary for the work. Do not use metal ladders for electrical
work.
7.9.8 LIFTING
Always lift with the leg muscles instead of the back and be sure your footing is secure.
Bend your knees and keep your back straight. Don't turn or twist your body when lifting.
Get help if load is too heavy or awkward to handle. Use a mechanical device for lifting
wherever possible.
7.9.9 SANITATION
Washrooms, toilets, locker rooms, drinking fountains and showers that are clean, ventilated
and adequately built are good for employee morale. Clean drinking water and paper cups
should be available at each plant, especially if the employees are exposed to skin irritant
materials.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-8

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.9.10 STOREROOMS
7
Good housekeeping must be maintained at all times. Space should be well arranged to
permit proper storage, handling and movement of materials. Inspections should be made
regularly for fire hazards. Fire extinguishers should be in good order and easily accessible.
7.9.11 WORKING AREA
A safe working area must be provided for efficient work. In the field, traffic should be
controlled by the use of traffic cones, barricades, flags, etc., to protect the workmen as well
as the public. In the material yard and storerooms, good housekeeping and properly
planned storage and work areas must be provided for safe working practices. Shops, plants
and offices should be planned for the most efficient production.
7.9.12 TRUCKS AND EQUIPMENT
Routine inspections of trucks and equipment should be made. Any need for repairs should
be reported and acted on as soon as possible. Only qualified and licensed operators should
be permitted to use and operate vehicles and equipment. Never permit riders on trucks or
other mobile equipment. Check electrical and any other hazards constantly when moving
heavy equipment. All trucks should be equipped with first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and
flares.
7.9.13 BARRICADES AND TRAFFIC CONTROL
An adequate and safe work area must be protected. Sufficient traffic cones and barricades
should always be carried by crews assigned to construction or maintenance work in streets.
Paint barricades bright, visible colours and keep them in good condition. Be sure warning
signs, flags, flares are adequate and in positions where they can be easily seen.
7.10 EQUIPMENT SERVICING

When servicing plant and equipment:
1. DO NOT grease or oil or attempt to service any machinery while it is in operation.

Pumps on automatic control must be locked out and key carried by the operator
during servicing.
2. DO NOT make any adjustments to operating machinery while alone. If it is

necessary to run the unit to adjust it, a second person must be present and be beside
the stop and go switch.
3. DO NOT work around electrical panels, disconnects or switches alone.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-9

4. DO NOT enter any crawl space under flooring for any purpose until the area has
7
been ventilated. A second person should be present. Regulations for confined
spaces apply here.
5. DO NOT service pumps and shafts in the dry wells of pumping stations, and in
plants where the pumps and shafts are less than three feet apart, without shutting off
all pumps and locking them out.
6. DO NOT under any circumstances, attempt to grease or service pump shafting

while standing on beams, piping, loose planks, guard rails, or by leaning out; over
or through guard rails. If a ladder must be used, then a second person must be
present to hold the ladder steady and to provide any other assistance.
7.11 PRECAUTIONS FOR ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE

1. Plan safety into each job. Orderliness and good housekeeping are essential for your
safety and the safety of others.
2. Each employee shall be qualified both in experience and general knowledge to

perform the particular electrical work, which he is assigned. Outside contractor may
have to be called in if not qualified.
3. Study the job carefully to determine all of the hazards present and to see that all
necessary safeguards and safety devices are provided for safe working conditions.
4. Examine all safety devices before they are used to ensure that they are in good
condition.
5. In all cases where work is being performed on or close to live conductors or

equipment, at least two men shall work together. When it is necessary for one to
leave, the other workman shall not continue the work until the first man returns.
6. Consider the results of each action. There is no reason for you to take chances that
will endanger yourself and others.
7. Satisfy yourself you are working under safe conditions. The care exercised by
others can not be relied upon.
8. Wear close fitting clothing, keep sleeves rolled down, avoid wearing unnecessary
articles while working on or close to live circuits or apparatus.
9. Use only approved types of rubber or leather gloves.
10. Protect yourself by placing an insulated medium between you and ground or
grounded apparatus to keep any part of your body from providing a path for
electrical current when working on conductors or apparatus that may be energized.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-10

11. Use rubber mats when working on any electrical control panel or switch and
7
disconnect boxes.
12. Open and close switches completely with a firm positive motion. Switches in a
partly open position may arc or cause a flash-over with damaging results to the
switch and possible injuries to the operator.
13. Open switches fully before removing fuses. To remove a fuse from a circuit
carrying a current without opening the switch is particularly hazardous. Use an
approved low-voltage fuse puller to remove fuses on a circuit of less than 500 volts
(where no switch is provided) whether a disconnect is provided or not. Remove
fuses by breaking contact with the hot side of the circuit first. Use the reverse
procedure when replacing fuses. Insert the fuse in the cold terminal first.
14. Do not stand directly in front of panel to remove fuses or shut off disconnects.
15. Shut off the power when examining or making repairs or alterations on light and
power circuits. When this is impractical Head Office must be contacted for further
instructions before proceeding with the work.
16. Consider all electrical circuits to be dangerous. Treat dead circuits as though they
were alive. This may prevent an accident as the circuit may be closed through an
error of some other person.
17. Exercise extreme care when required to locate troubles on a series lamp circuit,
before repairs are made make sure the power is cut off.
18. Lock or block open the control devices, open disconnect switches or remove fuses
before examining, repairing or working on power circuits. After these precautions
have been taken, attach tie-up tags worded "WORKMEN ARE WORKING ON
LINE." The tag shall bear the name of the workman. Tie-up tags shall remain on the
opened devices until removed by the workman whose name appears on the tag. If
the workman leaves without removing his tag, it may be removed only on
authorization of Head Office.
19. Before working on line circuits at a point remote from the control switch, which has
been tagged, it is recommended that the conductors be grounded at a point on the
line between the switch and the work station.
20. Make a complete check of the circuit before applying power for the first time. This
is to be done by a qualified man in charge of the-repairs, all other workmen to stand
off at a safe distance.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-11

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.12 FIRE PROTECTION

7
Good housekeeping is the basis for fire prevention. Inspections should be made
periodically and correction of fire hazards should be made as soon as possible. Consult
local fire departments for recommendations. Operators should know the fire suppression
methods needed to treat the three types of fires.
Figure 7-1 Types of Fires and Method of Extinguishment
Type of fire Symbol Types of extinguishers to use

Class A:
Ordinary combustible materials, ABC Fire Extinguisher
such as wood, cloth, paper, etc.
Water
• ABC Fire Extinguisher

Class B:
Flammable liquids, such as oil, BC dry chemical
gasoline, kerosene, etc.
• Carbon dioxide
Class C: ABC Fire Extinguisher

Presence of energized electrical
circuits (e.g., electronic motors, BC dry chemical
electrical wiring, etc.)
Carbon dioxide
• Special Class D fire extinguisher
Class D: containing sodium chloride or
Fires resulting from combustible copper, also referred to as a Metal-X
metals such as magnesium, extinguisher.
sodium and potassium.
Note: Never use a Class D fire extinguisher
of an A, B or C fire.
Each operator should have first hand knowledge of fire extinguisher, its ABC rating point
of contact and time of operation.
A CO2 fire extinguisher can only be used in an open area where the chance of using up the
local oxygen is minimal. Never grab the horn of the extinguisher to direct the CO2. The gas
being expelled will freeze your hand to the horn causing serious injury. There is a handle
provided.
Do not direct the CO2 at anyone. To fight the fire you must approach the fire from upwind,
pull the pin and aim directly on the burning area.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-12

The approximate operating time for CO2 fire extinguishers is shown in Table 10-1.
7
Table 7-1 Application Times for CO2 Fire Extinguishers
Type Application Time Max Area (ft2) Type of Fire
2½ lb. 10s ± 2s 2 B, C
5 lb. 14s ± 2s 4 B, C
10 lb. 14s ± 3s 6 B, C
15 lb. 25s ± 4s 8 B, C
20 lb. 30s ± 4s 8 B, C
Note: B, C indicates electrical, gas, oil type fires.
Weight indicated refers to contents only.
A Dry Chemical extinguisher can be used in any area. Approach from upwind and pull the
pin, you do not have to stand as close to the fire as with CO2. Dry Chemical will put a
blanket of chemical over the fire, smothering it.
Note:
1. All extinguishers must be refilled after using no matter what amount has been used.
2. All extinguishers must be hydrostatically tested every five years.
7.13 CHEMICAL HANDLING AND STORAGE

The Occupational Health and Safety Act states that the employer is responsible for
providing the necessary protective equipment and clothing for handling dangerous
materials. It is the responsibility of the employee, both to his employer and to himself, to
use and maintain them.
Eyewash fountains and deluge showers must be located within 4.6m (15ft) of the entrance
to any chemical handling area. Plenty of water should be available for washing up after
handling chemicals. Protective clothing should be washed after use.
All areas where solvents or other compounds are used and stored must be well ventilated.
The working area must be designed and constructed for the safety and convenience of the
worker and for his efficient production. The ventilation should be by mechanical means
with the air intake drawing air from the outside. In rooms where lime and other dry types of
chemicals are used, install dust accumulators in the air discharge pipe.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-13

Operate exhaust fans when handling any chemical whether liquid or dry.
7
Wear rubber boots, apron, gloves and eye shield or goggles when handling liquids. Wear
nose and mouth filter masks and goggles when handling dry chemicals.
7.14 LABORATORY
1. A thorough knowledge of first aid for dealing with lab accidents is essential. Know
the relevant sections of the antidote chart.
2. Wear protective clothing.
3. Practice good housekeeping. Keep all unnecessary equipment out of working areas.
Use a separate marked container for broken glass.
4. Areas around sinks and taps should be kept clear so that chemicals spilled on one's
hands or person can be washed off quickly.
5. Wipe up all spills immediately.
6. All reagent bottles must be clearly labelled so they can be identified, The date when
the reagent was made up, or received, should be on the label since some chemicals,
particularly nitrogen compounds, become unstable with age.
7. When diluting concentrated acids or bases, always add slowly to the water allowing
time to cool. Use only heat resistant (Pyrex) glassware. When diluting sulphuric
acid or when making up a solution of sodium hydroxide, cool the solution in a
water bath.
8. Chromic acid cleaning solution is a mixture of sodium or potassium dichromate in

concentrated sulphuric acid. It dehydrates and oxidizes most organic matter,
including clothing. TREAT IT WITH CARE!
9. Use water as a lubricant when making glass to hose connections. For vinyl tubing,
hot water can be used to make the plastic more pliable. Gloves should be worn
when making hose connections to glass tubing.
10. Suction bulbs should be used on all pipettes. A valved type sold as a "PROPIPET"
will save fumbling. NEVER USE YOUR MOUTH TO PIPETTE!
11. Combining chemicals found in the laboratory without knowing how they will react
can produce unexpected and unpleasant results.
12. When disposing of any chemical in the sink, dilute with plenty of water.
13. Bottles of hazardous liquids should be stored near floor level in ventilated
cupboards.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-14

14. HASTE MAKES WASTE and accidents. Planning can save far more time than
7
hurrying and produces fewer mistakes.
7.14.1 SAFETY PRACTICES IN WORK AREAS
The following paragraphs list some of the specific safety measures an operator should
observe when carrying out his responsibilities in a plant.
7.14.2 NO SMOKING AREAS
1. Chemical storage areas
2. Fuel and lubrication storage areas
3. Wet and dry wells of plant pumping stations
4. Pump rooms
5. Tunnels having pipe galleries
6. Chlorine building
7. Manholes, tanks, reservoirs, excavations, trenches
7.14.3 CHLORINE BUILDINGS
1. The following signs must be posted outside the room door:
a) Turn on Vent Fan
b) Danger Chlorine Storage
2. A "Fresh Air" air pack must be located within 4.6 m (15 ft) of room door.
3. An eye wash bath must be located within 4.6 m (15 ft) of room door.
4. Mechanical ventilation of the chlorine room shall be sufficient to produce 30 air

changes an hour taking suction from within 45cm (18 in.) of the floor.
5. Operator must wear safety goggles and a pair of rubberized gloves.
6. Two operators shall be present for cylinder changing.
7. Fresh strong ammonia must be used for leak detection.
8. The chlorine room must NOT be used as a plant storage area.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-15

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.14.4 WET WELLS

7
A wet well is classified as a confined space and therefore confined space regulations apply.
Before entering the operator must:
1. Test for oxygen content using an oxygen meter. DO NOT ENTER unless the
oxygen content in the atmosphere registers between 18 and 23%.
2. Test the noxious gases and vapours using a combustible gas analyser.
3. Test for hydrogen sulphide using the colorimetric test. Tests for other gases may
also be necessary.
The operator must also take the following precaution on entry:
1. If any atmospheric contamination is suspected, a fixed or portable vent fan of at

least 700 cfm capacity must be used before and during entry. If no vent fan is
available, a portable air pack must be worn.
2. Explosion and waterproof lighting must be used.
3. An operator with a man hoist must be located at all times at the entrance to the wet
well to monitor the meters and observe the operator inside.
4. If a man hoist is not available two operators must be at the entrance.
5. A parachute type harness and lifeline and hard hat must be worn
6. A step-through parting is required at the ladder entrance.
7.14.5 DRY WELLS
A dry well is classified as a confined space and therefore confined space regulations apply.
Before entering the operator must:
1. Vent fan shall be started before entering the pumping station and left operating
continuously while the operator is in the station.
2. "DANGER PUMPS ON AUTOMATIC CONTROLLER" signs should be posted at

the control panel floor level, and the pump floor level.
3. "NO SMOKING" signs should be posted at the pump floor level.
4. Lock out switches at control panel when working on any pump at any floor level.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-16

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.14.6 PUMP ROOMS

7
1. "Caution Pumps on Automatic" signs must be posted.
2. Vent fans must be on.
7.15 HANDLING CHEMICALS

In handling chemicals in the water treatment process, the general safety requirements
outlined earlier should be met. Operators should be aware of the hazards associated with
chemicals used in a water treatment.
Chemicals should be properly sealed, kept away from heat sources and preferably stored in
locked lockers, when not in use.
7.15.1 ALUM
Wear protective dust-proof equipment (goggles and nose mask) and proper clothing when
handling and storing alum. If skin or nose irritations occur, wash thoroughly with plenty of
water.
7.15.2 HYDROFLUOSILIC ACID
The vapour or liquid chemical is very dangerous when it comes into contact with the eyes,
skin or any part of the body, or if taken internally.
Operator must wear protective clothing and equipment consisting of long gauntlet type
rubber gloves, high rubber boots or waders, short type rubber raincoat and chemical safety
goggles with a plastic face shield.
7.15.3 FLUORIDE POWDERS
Do not let dust touch skin or inhale fumes.
Air ventilation must be at least ten (10) air changes per hour.
Operator must wear good quality coveralls, rubber boots (knee length), rubber gloves or
plastic coated cotton gloves with cuffs of half a forearm length; dust proof cap and rubber
apron, plastic goggles, nose mask with replaceable filters approved by National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for fluorides. The filter in the nose mask should
be replaced each day or more frequently if required.
Showers must be available. All rubberised clothing should be hosed down at the end of a
shift.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-17

Empty chemical bags must be deposited in a securely tied plastic bag at a sanitary landfill.
7
DO NOT BURN THESE BAGS.
7.15.4 CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE (HTH)
This chemical is highly explosive if it is in contact with organic matter. Store it in a clean,
cool, dry area. Keep it away from open flame or heat. A "Metal X", Class D fire
extinguisher is the only type that will extinguish this material when on fire.
7.15.5 SODIUM HYPCHLORITE (LIQUID BLEACH)
Strong Sodium Hypochlorite solutions are powerful oxidizing agents that rapidly produce
burns when in contact with the skin. Do not handle directly or allow the solution to splash
or spill on any part of the body. Avoid accidental mixing with acids, as this will liberate
chlorine gas. With ammonia or ammonium compounds, explosive products may be
formed.
7.15.6 CHLORINE GAS
Chlorine gas is an extremely dangerous chemical to work with and proper training is
essentially in operating a plant using chlorine gas as a method of disinfection. Proper
eyewear, gloves, self-contained breathing apparatus and aprons are required when handling
the gas. A ventilation hood is preferable for the area immediately surrounding the gas
cylinders. Keep far away from ammonia, acetylene, fine metal and any combustible
material.
7.15.7 AMMONIA
Store cylinders in a cool, dry, ventilated place. Handle with care. An air pack should be
available. In case of cylinder leaks, only trained personnel should make repairs. You must
know your first aid if you handle and use this material.
7.15.8 ACTIVATED CARBON
Store in a dry, fire-proof space. Wear protective, dust-proof equipment (goggles and nose
mask) when handling activated carbon. Do not smoke while working with or near stored
material. Use plenty of water when washing and bathing.
7.15.9 LIME
Use protective, dust-proof equipment (goggles and nose mask) while handling lime and use
a dust collecting system, if possible. Store in a ventilated, dry area. If skin or nose
irritations occur, wash thoroughly with plenty of water. Consult a physician if irritation
becomes severe.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
7.15.10 SODA ASH

7
Handle soda ash as described for lime. See above.
7.15.11 CAUSTIC SODA
Caustic soda used in water treatment is often used in liquid form. Proper gloves, apron and
eyewear are essential. Keep caustic soda away from Alum powder, acids, aluminium, tin
and zinc products. Always add soda to water and never water to soda. When soda is added
to water, it will release substantial heat, so keep oxidizable materials away from where you
are mix. If skin comes into contact with soda, flush with clean running water.
7.15.12 SOLVENTS
Be careful when using solvents in confined areas. The area should be well ventilated. Clean
solvents from skin to prevent irritations.
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-19

SMALL SYSTEMS
7.16 REVIEW
7
1. What is meant by a confined space? What are the general procedures
when working in one of these?
2. List the safety equipment that should be found in a water treatment

plant.
3. List 6 general safety rules around the water treatment plant.
4. What two vaccinations are urged for operators working in a water

treatment plant?
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-20

7
Notes
11/02/07 DRAFT 7-21

SMALL SYSTEMS SEWAGE LAGOON
8
8.0 INTRODUCTION TO SEWAGE LAGOON MANAGEMENT
The following two sections will provide the reader with some fundamental information
on sewage, describe the operating principles of a lagoon, and outline basic operation and
maintenance procedures for lagoons wetlands.
In the NWT, sewage lagoons are the primary method of sewage treatment in
communities. There are other ways of treating sewage such as mechanical treatment
plants, however, they are not discussed in this manual.
We are fortunate in the NWT that we have enough open spaces to build lagoons and use a
natural process, to treat sewage. Depending on the size of the community and the
availability of land, some communities have one large lagoon or many small lagoons.
For example, Rae has one large lagoon that used to be a lake. Fort Providence has 4
smaller lagoons. In some larger Southern communities there are over 10 lagoons used to
treat the municipal sewage. Either way the sewage is treated so it can be discharged to
the environment.
In some communities, wetlands are used after the lagoon to further treat sewage.
Wetlands will also be discussed throughout the following sections, as a component of
sewage lagoon management.
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9
SMALL SYSTEMS WASTE SOURCES, CHARACTERISTICS AND TREATMENT
9.0 WASTE SOURCES, CHARACTERISTICS AND TREATMENT
9.1 OBJECTIVES
Sewage generation;
Sewage composition; and
Sewage treatment processes.
9.1.1 SEWAGE GENERATION
Sewage is composed primarily of two major components, water and solids - and there are
only a very few solids in sewage when compared to the amount of water. Water is the
major portion of sewage - over 99.9%. The remaining 0.1% is the small amount that may
cause disease and pollution, and this is the part you treat.
In order to treat the sewage properly, and to protect the treatment lagoon from toxic
chemicals in the sewage, it is important to understand where sewage comes from, and
what makes up its composition.
9.1.2 DOMESTIC WASTE
The primary source of sewage in NWT communities is domestic waste. These are wastes
generated in the home. Human wastes are most important in terms of public health
because they contain microorganisms, some of which may cause disease. It is especially
important to treat these wastes and dispose of them properly.
Domestic wastes from homes include wastewater from food preparation, laundry,
bathing, and toilet wastes.
Homes can also put waste chemicals in the water that are toxic. Cleaners, solvents, paint,
and waste oil are examples of toxic household wastes. People should not dispose of their
wastes in this manner. Household hazardous wastes must be disposed in a different way.
This is discussed in Section 12 Management and Operation of a Modified Landfill.
9.1.3 INDUSTRIAL WASTE
Another source of wastewater is from industry. The type of waste depends on the type of
industry. Some industries have wastewater that is toxic. It is dangerous to collect and it
is dangerous to dispose. Wastewater from industry has to be compatible with a municipal
11/02/07 DRAFT 9-1

9
collection, treatment, and disposal system otherwise industry will have to treat their own
wastes.
9.1.4 RUNOFF
A third source of water that enters the lagoon is runoff that comes from the land
surrounding the lagoon. While runoff is not toxic and will not upset the treatment
process, its shear volume may cause the lagoon to overflow. An overflow could damage
the dikes and be very costly.
It is important to control runoff so that it does not enter the lagoon, and when it does, the
lagoon is large enough to hold it all without spilling.
9.2 SEWAGE COMPOSITION

Most importantly, sewage contains disease causing organisms. The solids in sewage can
be divided into two general groups: organic and inorganic solids.
Organic solids come from animals and plants, and include their waste products.
Chemically speaking, organic means that a compound contains carbon. Organic solids
will decay or decompose. In sewage, bacteria are also considered to be part of the
organic solids.
Inorganic solids will not decay or decompose. Inorganic solids are things like sand and
salt.
In normal domestic wastewater, almost 80% of the solids are organic, the remaining 20%
are inorganic.
Solids can also be divided as suspended or dissolved solids. Suspended solids are those
you can see suspended in the water. Most of these solids are large and heavy enough to
settle to the bottom.
Dissolved solids are those dissolved in the water. We discussed this before in the section
on Sources and Characteristics of Water.
Sewage also contains small and varying amounts of dissolved gases. One of the most
important of these gases is oxygen. It is present in the original water supply, and it is also
dissolved from the air in contact with the surface of the wastewater. This oxygen is
called, “dissolved oxygen”, and it is of fundamental importance to sewage treatment.
Other gases include: carbon dioxide, a gaseous product form the decomposition of
organic matter; and hydrogen sulphide, the rotten egg smell that comes from septic
sewage.
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9
9.3 WHY TREAT SEWAGE?

There are two primary reasons for treating sewage:
To prevent the spread of disease; and
To protect the environment.
When people were nomadic, nature was pretty well able to take care of human wastes.
But when humans began to congregate in communities, and discharge their waste into the
same place every day, nature’s capability was soon overwhelmed and these areas became
polluted. Hundreds of thousands of people died every year from horrible diseases. With
the collection of sewage, usually through sewer systems, fewer children and adults died
from disease. People began to live much longer.
Treating sewage also protects the environment. When the organic material found in
sewage decomposes, it consumes the dissolved oxygen. This is called the, “Biochemical
Oxygen Demand”, or BOD. Untreated sewage contains so much BOD that all the
dissolved oxygen in the immediate receiving environment is consumed. Fish and other
aquatic organisms need dissolved oxygen to survive.
Also, the toxic wastes that can come from industry or from households can harm aquatic
life.
In the North, because of the cold climate, nature treats wastewater very slowly. Also,
because of the cold climate, pathogenic organisms do not die as quickly. Therefore, it is
very important we treat our sewage properly and dispose of it in the correct manner.
9.4 THE NATURAL BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT PROCESS

The web of life (which is also known as the food chain) begins with the simplest of
microorganisms that provide food for more complex organisms, and so on. The
beginning of the web of life can also be called, “The Natural Treatment Process”.
There are three microorganisms that begin the web of life. They are bacteria called:
aerobic; anaerobic; and facultative. Aerobic bacteria (from the Greek “aero” meaning
air) use the dissolved oxygen from the water to live, grow, and reproduce. In doing so,
they break down the organic waste into its two simplest components, carbon dioxide and
water.
Anaerobic bacteria live where there is no oxygen. They are responsible for generating a
condition, which is referred to as being septic. In this condition anaerobic bacteria take
the oxygen they need from the organic compound itself. Anaerobic digestion is
responsible for producing gases such as methane, and hydrogen sulphide, resulting in foul
odours and lower treatment efficiencies.
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9
Facultative bacteria are very adaptable. They can live with, or without, dissolved
oxygen. They can operate aerobically, or can change to operate anaerobically.
When an animal or plant dies, or when organic matter enters the water, if there is
sufficient dissolved oxygen present, aerobic and facultative bacteria will begin the
process of breaking the material down. This is a desirable state because there are no foul
odours or unsightly conditions associated with aerobic decomposition. Nature tries to
encourage this state by putting oxygen into the water. Water turbulence and wave action
dissolves oxygen into the water replacing the oxygen that has been used.
However, if there is too much organic matter, such as may be found in a layer on the
bottom of the lake or stream, or if ice cover prevents air from being absorbed into the
water, dissolved oxygen may be used up before it can be replaced. When the dissolved
oxygen is depleted, the anaerobic decomposition process begins.
While both processes are effective, the aerobic process is much faster and does not
produce foul odours. Even still, in the North, it takes many years for matter to break
down to a point where it no longer pollutes.
Figure 9-1 Natural Treatment Process
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9
9.5 THE NITROGEN CYCLE

The nitrogen cycle represents one of the most important nutrient cycles found in nature
Living organisms use nitrogen to produce a number of complex organic molecules like
amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
The largest store of nitrogen is found in the atmosphere where it exists as a gas (mainly
N2). The atmospheric store is about one million times larger than the total nitrogen
contained in living organisms. Other major stores of nitrogen include organic matter in
soil and water.
Table 9-1 The Nitrogen Cycle
In most ecosystems nitrogen is primarily stored in living and dead organic matter. This
organic nitrogen is converted into inorganic forms when it re-enters the cycle through
decomposition. Decomposers, modify the nitrogen found in organic matter from
ammonia (NH3 ) to ammonium (NH4+ ). This process is carried out a variety of bacteria,
actinomycetes, and fungi.
When released, most of the ammonium is often chemically altered by a specific type of
autotrophic bacteria (bacteria that belong to the genus Nitrosomonas) into nitrite (NO2-).
Further modification by another type of bacteria (belonging to the genus Nitrobacter)
11/02/07 DRAFT 9-5

9
converts the nitrite to nitrate (NO3- ). Both of these processes involve chemical oxidation
and are known as nitrification.
Anaerobic bacteria carry out denitrification. The process of denitrification involves the
reduction of nitrate into nitrogen (N2) or nitrous oxide (N2O) gas. Both of these gases
then diffuse into the atmosphere. This process is important to the bacteria because it
supplies them with oxygen for respiration.
9.6 REVIEW
1. Why treat sewage?
2. Define aerobic and anaerobic.
3. List examples of toxic waste.
4. Why is oxygen important to sewage treatment?
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9
5. Describe nature’s treatment process.
Notes
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SMALL SYSTEMS SEWAGE LAGOON OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
10
10.0 SEWAGE LAGOON OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
10.1 OBJECTIVES
Lagoon configuration;
Lagoon operating requirements;
Maintenance requirements;
Wetlands and overland flow;
Water licensing; and
Record keeping.
10.2 BASIC LAGOON CONFIGURATION

A sewage lagoon uses an enhanced version of the natural process. The lagoons purpose
is to compress the natural treatment process in time and space, and to provide some
control over the outcome. In nature, sewage will always act in a particular way. First,
the heavy solids will settle. Next the smaller, lighter solids will settle. Dissolved
materials usually stay dissolved. Lagoons are designed following this understanding.
10.2.1 PRIMARY LAGOONS
The primary (first) process is to remove the heavy solids. One or more small lagoons are
used. These lagoons may be called settling ponds, primary treatment lagoons or
anaerobic lagoons. Primary treatment lagoons are quite deep (approximately 4 to 6 m
deep), to provide space to store solids that settle out and accumulate over a long period of
time.
Primary lagoons are used to reduce the load in the lagoons that follow. As a result, the
next lagoons are able to provide better treatment.
Since primary lagoons are small and deep, very little dissolved oxygen reaches the
bottom layer where the solids accumulate. This means the bacteria acting on the sludge
layer at the bottom of the cell are anaerobic in nature.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
10.2.2 EXFILTRATION LAGOONS

SEWAGE LAGOON OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
10
In a NWT few communities lagoon berms are constructed of coarse earth materials that
water flows through easily. These lagoons are referred to as exfiltration lagoons. They
are usually of a size that will hold all the winter volume of sewage, which generally
becomes a big block of ice.
As the ice melts, the water flows through the berm leaving behind the solids. The
resulting quality is similar to the effluent from a primary lagoon and so more treatment
must occur. This additional treatment is usually completed in a wetland or through
overland flow. These processes are discussed in Section 10.8.
10.2.3 SECONDARY LAGOONS AND FACULTATIVE LAGOONS
The second process is to reduce the amount of organic materials in the water; and reduce
the pathogenic bacteria. The lagoon is called a secondary lagoon. It is also called a
facultative lagoon, a seasonal retention lagoon, an annual retention lagoon or an oxidation
pond.
Many lagoons in the NWT are single cell ponds, which combine both the primary and
secondary function. Some of these lagoons are small and only hold the sewage for a
short time. This is older technology, however, and as lagoons are expanded to meet the
needs of our growing communities, you will see single cell lagoons replaced with multi-
cell lagoons.
Within the lagoon, a symbiotic relationship develops between the aerobic and the
anaerobic bacteria. Symbiosis means that different types of organisms live together and
help each other. Algae also grow in the water column (and this why the lagoon is a
green coulour), further enhancing the relationship, and improving the treatment.
Secondary lagoons are generally 1.5 metres to 2 metres of working depth. If they get
deeper than 2 metres then sunlight cannot penetrate through the algae and treatment will
not be as good.
The symbiotic relationship increases the speed at which sewage can be treated and after
only 4 to 6 weeks, the sewage is sufficiently treated to be disposed to the environment.
This treatment, however, can only happen when the water is warm and the sun is shining.
The secondary process cannot happen in the winter when the water is cold and the
sunlight is blocked by ice..
Therefore, most Northern lagoons are designed to store and treat sewage over 12 month
cycle. Over the summer the wastes are treated so that by the fall they are safe to dispose.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-2

SMALL SYSTEMS
10.2.4 REDUCTION OF ORGANISMS

10
Unlike water treatment, it is not necessary to chlorinate the sewage lagoons to reduce the
number of organisms. Organisms are removed in two ways:
Most effective is the ultraviolet light that comes from sunlight. The light penetrates the
water and can disinfect to a depth of 1.5 to 2 metres if the water is not too dirty or full of
algae.
A much less effective way, is through competition for food. As the amount of food
decreases in the lagoon, the fewer bacteria it is able to feed. Therefore, many bacteria die
away.
Even if treated for 12 months in the lagoon, the water is still not safe to drink. We let
mother nature finish the job for us by disposing the contents of the lagoon into an area
large enough so that it will not be affected.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
Sewage contains disease causing organisms. You should contact the public
health nurse in your community to make sure you have all the required
vaccinations.
10.3 BASIC OPERATION
10.3.1 FILL AND DRAW
Annual retention lagoons are operated using the fill and draw method. When the lagoon
is full, it is discharged (drawn down) using siphons or pumps over a period of a few days
to a point where it will take one year to fill again. The lagoon is usually discharged in the
fall, just before freeze-up.
Seasonal retention lagoons, those that hold water for more than about 9 months but less
than 12, can be operated in one of two ways. They can be operated using the fill and
draw method, with a spring and a fall discharge. They can also be operated using a
continuous discharge during the summer months, then drawn down to their lowest level
to provide winter storage.
10.3.2 CONTINUOUS DISCHARGE
A continuous discharge lagoon means that effluent continuously flows from the lagoon.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-3

Short retention, and primary lagoons are best operated with a continuous discharge.
10
Their ability to treat will be slightly less than with a fill and draw method, but there will
be less risk of the discharge structure freezing up in winter.
To be effective, wetlands must be used with a continuous discharge. The lagoon effluent
is discharged to the wetland during the growing season.
The discharge begins as new growth begins and stops before the leaves turn. In other
words the discharge takes place during the growing season when the plants can use the
nutrients in the effluent. If there is discharge at any other time then the wetland will not
be able to treat the effluent.
Figure 10-1 Example of a Multiple Cell Lagoon
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10
Figure 10-2 Typical Single Cell Lagoon
Figure 10-3 Outfall Structure
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SMALL SYSTEMS
10.4 OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

10
10.4.1 CHECKING THE SYSTEM
Once a day, you must inspect the lagoon. Take a walk around it to see if anything is
obviously wrong. You need to take immediate action immediately if you see major
problems such as a breached berm or frozen outfall.
Once a week, you must check all the major components of a lagoon system to see if they
are operating properly. If they are not, a repair work order should be generated and the
repairs made immediately. You cannot wait to make repairs on lagoon systems as the
consequences of a lagoon failure are very expensive.
Most lagoon systems will have five main parts:
1. The inlet structure;
2. The berms and liners;
3. The transfer mechanism between cells;
4. The outfall structure; and
5. The colour of the liquid.
Each system is slightly different so what needs to be checked on one lagoon may not
need to be checked on another. You should develop your own checklist based on your
own experience and information.
In the spring, the drainage system around the lagoon has to be prepared for the spring
runoff. Ditches and culverts have to be cleared of excess snow.
In the summer, check the drainage system for damage, or obstructions and repair
immediately.
10.4.2 CONTROLLING THE LEVEL
Most lagoons, even those that are converted lake-lagoons, are designed to have 1 metre of
freeboard, that is the distance between the water surface and the top of the berm, when
the lagoon is full. The freeboard is used to protect the berm from erosion and over
topping. Newer lagoons have a water level gauge installed. If there is no permanent
gauge, one should be installed.
In a continuous discharge lagoon, the level can be controlled in a number of ways

including: opening the discharge valve or gate, or removing a log from the stop log
structure.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
10.4.3 COLOUR
10
The colour of a lagoon is an indicator of how well it is working. A well operating
primary lagoon is usually grey perhaps with a hint of green. A well operating secondary
lagoon is usually dark green or bright green.
If the contents of secondary lagoons are black, brown, or yellow, or any other colour than
those that indicate good operation, there is something wrong. You need to contact the
MACA Regional Office right away.
The following is a colour guide for secondary lagoons to indicate what may be
happening.
Table 10-1 Secondary lagoon colour guide

Colour Indication
Dark or bright green Good treatment
High pH
High dissolved oxygen
Dull green to yellow Not very good
pH dropping
Low dissolved oxygen
Grey to black Very bad
Lagoon anaerobic
Tan to Brown Okay if caused by a certain type of algae
Not good if caused by erosion
Red or Pink Presence of purple sulphur bacteria
showing anaerobic conditions; or
Presence of red algae showing aerobic
conditions
10.5 PH
The intensity of acidity or alkalinity in a solution is numerically expressed as pH. A pH
value of 7.0 is neutral, decreasing values become more intensely acidic, increasing values
become more intensely alkaline.
pH measurements are valuable because pH is one of the environmental factors that affect
the activity and health of the micro organisms. Sudden changes, or abnormal values,
indicate that the process has been upset in some way, usually from a toxic waste.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-7

pH is an interesting parameter to watch as it can change from morning to evening as more

10
or less sunlight activates the algae. pH can range as high as 11.0 in a properly operating
secondary lagoon.
A slowly decreasing pH value toward the end of the summer indicates the process has
begun to convert ammonia (NH3) to nitrate (NO3). This conversion is important as it
indicates a healthy process achieving good treatment. It is also important as ammonia is
toxic to fish and the less there is in the lagoon, the less chance there is for a problem in
the receiving stream when the lagoon is discharged and reaches a stream or a river.
10.5.1 SAMPLING
The purpose of taking samples is twofold: one, to test how well the lagoon is working;
and two, to see if the effluent meets the regulatory requirements.
Recall the discussion on representative samples on Section 6.5. All the concepts apply
here as well.
Table 10-2 Representative Sewage Samples

Representative
Sample Site Sample Frequency
Raw sewage or unit process where Time dependent Sampled once per hour over a
volume remains steady but composite 24 hour period
concentration fluctuates
Raw sewage or unit process where Flow proportional Sample once per hour over a
both volume and concentration composite 24 hour period
fluctuates
Sewage lagoon effluents Discrete grab Monthly during periods of

flow for continuous
discharges; and
Three times during decant –

start, middle, end.
Sewage sludge in lagoons Discrete grab Yearly or less depending on

population and sewage
sources.
Treated sewage sludge from Discrete grab Prior to final disposal.

mechanical treatment
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10
There are six important parts to the process of sampling:
1. Taking the sample at the time called for;
2. Using the correct sample container;
3. Taking the sample from the correct location;
4. Careful and correct labelling of the sample container;
5. Using proper sampling procedures; and
6. Shipping the sample in proper containers so it arrives on time at the laboratory for
testing.
Figure 10-4 Taking samples safely
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
When taking sewage samples:
Bring a helper along with you to help you out if you fall in. Both you and your
helper should wear rubber boots and disposable gloves
After sampling:
Diseases in sewage are transferred from your hands into your mouth. Wash
your hands and arms up to your elbows with hot water and soap before eating
or touching your face. Do the same to your face if you got sewage on it.
Wash your rubber boots with bleach after sampling. Throw away gloves.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-9

SMALL SYSTEMS
10.5.2 DISCHARGING LAGOONS

10
In a lagoon where a fill and draw method is being used, when the lagoon is full, it must
be discharged. Normally, water sampling should take place about two weeks before the
annual discharge to see if the lagoon contents meet the requirements. If they do it will be
Okay to discharge on schedule. If they do not, the contents should be held longer with
the hope that the lagoon will do its job and requirements will be met. Samples should be
taken again to see if the lagoon now meets the requirements.
If the contents still do not meet requirements, as much as you respect the environment,
your responsibility also includes protecting the lagoon from overtopping or breaching.
If you know that the lagoon contents are not up to the specifications required by your
water licence, and you know that you must discharge, then you must contact the Water
Board in your area to request an Emergency Amendment to discharge the lagoon. It is
the law.
As a matter of practice, if the results come back and requirements are not being meet you
should immediately request an Emergency Amendment.
Do not ask for an Emergency Amendment the day before you want to discharge. The
Water Board should have a week’s notice. If the Water Board tells you that you do not
need to have an emergency amendment, get it in writing.
An Emergency Amendment for a discharge will likely protect your community against
any legal action by other agencies taken as a result of this discharge.
You should also contact the MACA regional office. The lagoon should be studied to
determine why it is not functioning properly.
10.6 MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
10.6.1 BERMS AND LINERS
There are four main functions of lagoon berms:
1. To form part of a storage container for retention of the wastewater for treatment;
2. To provide access to all parts of the lagoon;
3. To allow variation in level due to volume changes; and
4. To provide a system for flow rate control.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-10

Liners are sometimes installed to prevent water from seeping through the berm to avoid
10
groundwater pollution, and to ensure that the berm does not collapse because of washout
or through pressure from ice lens formation within the berm. Liners can be made of
plastic or clay.
The objective of berm inspection is to make sure that leakage does not occur. Figure 10-
5 shows longitudinal cracking, indicating the berm has structural damage and should be
repaired.
Figure 10-5 Berm with structural damage
Three major concerns are:
1. Too much growth of plants and bush which may hide developing problems.
2. Erosion of dikes, which is caused by wave action and surface runoff.
3. Animal burrows which may lead to washout
Regular monitoring and maintenance are required to control berm erosion. The most
frequent areas of erosion are:
1. Around control structure,
2. At corners,
3. Along banks down wind,
4. Areas with insufficient vegetative cover, and
5. Areas with insufficient berm compaction.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-11

Wind-induced water erosion is usually more serious for the larger lagoons, particularly
10
for surface areas over 5 hectares. In regions where wind is strong or frequent during the
period of no ice cover, the wave action may be so strong as to require the placement of
some form of riprap along the inner slopes of the berms.
Riprap is usually seen as large stones set closely together to provide a stone “armour” on
a slope. Where this has been done, inspection of the riprap and replacement of material,
where necessary, has to be carried out.
Another method of berm protection uses grass or other vegetative cover. It is important
that regular cutting of grass or vegetative cover is carried out. A well-maintained berm is
less likely to be the target for burrowing animals, particularly muskrats. Tunnels through
portions of the berms can be the reason for complete failure. Trapping of animals is
probably the only solution to the problem. Shooting of animals is not the answer since
this may cause holes in the liner.
Surface runoff will have been normally prevented from entering the lagoon through
intercepter ditches at the bottom of the outer berm slope. The ditches must be properly
maintained to prevent the blockage of drainage.
10.6.2 CELL-TO-CELL TRANSFER
Inlet, cell-to-cell transfer and outlet structures enable the lagoon system to function and
allow the operator to exert some control over the performance of the lagoon system. In
addition, these structures require considerable attention to insure that they operate
properly, and do not experience or cause erosion.
The most important aspect of maintenance of these structures is that they must not freeze
in a way that inhibits their operation. Another important problem is caused by sludge
deposition near inlet structures, which has to be cleared manually or by machinery. Each
type of structure and their maintenance requirements are discussed below.
10.6.3 INLET STRUCTURES
In the Northwest Territories, several types of inlets are used. These include: truck
discharges; and pipe discharges.
10.6.4 TRUCK DISCHARGES
Truck discharges frequently experience operational problems. These include:
Access road problems,
Discharge point problems,
Erosion.
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10
Figure 10-6 Typical truck discharge
10.6.5 ACCESS ROAD PROBLEMS
Road maintenance can present considerable problems and cost. The most obvious are the
problems in the spring and summer when the road surface and the subsurface thaw. The
can result in a reduced bearing capacity. Of course, this should be planned for during the
design process. Frequently, however, problems do occur.
The access road is designed to be usable year-round. Since, most communities service
some residents with a truck collection system, the access road must be usable at all times.
If a truck becomes stuck in winter with a full load of wastewater it must be moved before
the wastewater freezes.
Maintenance takes three basic forms: road shaping and smoothing, roadway filling and
snow removal. These activities follow normal community maintenance procedures.
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SMALL SYSTEMS
10.6.6 DISCHARGE POINT PROBLEMS

10
At the discharge point, the major problems occur as a result of spillage, snow
accumulation, waste build-up at the discharge point, and wastewater freezing in the
discharge pipe.
Snow accumulation at this location must be dealt with by clearing periodically. This
should occur each time the access road is cleared.
If there is spillage from the truck, during discharge, it has to be removed. Because this
material is frequently frozen and therefore more difficult to remove than snow, care must
be exercised to prevent damage at the discharge location. Part or all of the wastewater
discharged may freeze before entering the liquid part of the lagoon. This may become a
serious problem, depending on the layout of the discharge point, and you may have to use
machine excavation on a regular basis.
10.6.7 EROSION
Erosion problems at the discharge point are a common occurrence. You may have to add
additional protective material, such as riprap, every year. The support wall or
embankment may experience problems, particularly in the spring and summer. One
problem is that loaded trucks driving on the berm may cause the retaining wall to settle.
If you notify your supervisor right away, Community Works can fix the berm before you
have any real problems.
Erosion can also happen on where outfall enters a ditch or swale. To avoid this, ditches
may be grassed, riprapped or concreted. Erosion problems at other times in the year may
require reshaping or relining of the channel. Another maintenance problem is icing
during winter that can result in complete blockage if it should be necessary to convey
effluent at these times.
10.6.8 PIPE INLETS
There are three types of pipe inlets used for lagoons:
1. Free fall,
2. Submerged gravity, and
3. Submerged pressure.
Each of these has special maintenance requirements:
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-14

SMALL SYSTEMS
10.6.9 FREE FALL DISCHARGES

10
Continuous overflow lagoons are now rarely designed with free fall discharges, but they
have been used in the past. The principal reason for not using them is that during periods
of low flow in the pipe, the air moving up the discharge pipe can cause glacier-type water
freezing which could eventually cause freeze-up of the pipe. In addition, the cold air
temperature around the discharge pipe can cause freezing inside.
Some existing lagoons do have free fall discharges. This was more common in the past
but still may be done due to the topography of the site. In these cases, the operator must
be aware of the following locations of possible problems:
The support structure holding the pipe;
1. The foundation of the support structure;
2. The insulation of the discharge pipe;
3. In heat tracing tape (if you have it);
4. Potential for ice build-up; and
5. Potential for ice damage.
The build-up of ice and its movement during spring break-up are among the most serious
problems. Winds can drive large ice masses onto the shore and damage unprotected
support structures.
A metallic support structure should also be inspected for corrosion and related problems,
which may weaken the structure. If necessary, attaching a sacrificial anode to a metal
support is one step to reduce the maintenance required due to corrosion.
The next step is inspection, repair or replacement of heating cable systems. These have
be checked regularly to ensure proper operation.
10.6.10SUBMERGED GRAVITY
When the inlet flow enters the lagoon below the surface (either through the side or
bottom), routine maintenance requirements are minimal. The concern is limited to the
need to clean the pipe line periodically to prevent increased head loss due to sludge and
deposits build-up.
10.6.11SUBMERGED PRESSURE
In many locations, the topography of the lagoon site will require the use of a forcemain
and pumping station to deliver the wastewater to the lagoon, including the use of
submerged pressure discharge to the first cell, the short-detention lagoon. In this case,
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-15

the maintenance requirements are much more. Activities include recording of operating
10
information and preventative maintenance after specified periods of operation.
Maintenance activities normally include checking pumps and pipe connections, vent or
vacuum break points, and backup power equipment.
Of course, routine maintenance such as cleaning and wipe down of equipment, clean out
and sweeping out of the pumphouse is required weekly. Circulating air filters and
heating equipment have to be checked frequently.
10.6.12OUTLET STRUCTURES
Three types of outlet structures should exist at most lagoons:
1. The wastewater level control device,
2. The outlet device, and
3. The emergency discharge device (overflow).
The wastewater level control device need to be cleaned regularly so that adjustments are
easy and quick. It is important to make sure that the variable level control features are
functioning throughout the year and are unaffected by icing conditions.
The outlet device may include a submerged pipe leading to a stop-log chamber or a stand
pipe chamber. The main concerns are erosion, wear, uneven settlement and frost
damage. In lagoons and lake-lagoons that use a surface discharge you need to complete
erosion checks, wear or pipe cleaning and adjustments to insure the desired water level is
maintained.
The principal maintenance concern is that the variable level control features are
functioning throughout the year, unaffected by icing conditions.
For long-detention and storage lagoons, an emergency overflow swale is provided near
the outlet structure to provide relief to prevent overtopping of berms. It is normally
constructed of concrete or stone riprap. Maintenance inspection should be made
occasionally to detect any settling or damage.
Another outlet structure is a drain for the cell. It is located at the bottom of the cell, with
a 90o elbow and pipe to about 0.5-1.0 m above the bottom for a short detention lagoons
(to allow for sludge accumulation) and to a minimum of 0.15 m above the bottom for
storage and long-detention lagoons. The valve is usually housed in a manhole. You need
to grease the valve occasionally.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-16

SMALL SYSTEMS
10.6.13FENCING AND SIGNS

10
Examine fencing for problems with posts or accumulation of wind blown material. Posts
which have been effected by settlement, frost heave or unstable soils should be
reinstalled. Wind blown material should be removed as quickly as possible to reduce the
lateral load on the fence and maintain the appearance of the site.
Install warning signs on the fence at regular intervals, usually 30 to 40 m apart. Replace
lost or damaged signs.
10.7 ODOUR, WEED, AND INSECT PROBLEMS

10.7.1.1 Odour Problems
Under normal operating conditions, lagoons do not cause serious odour problems.
However at certain times, severe odours will occur. To minimize the nuisance, lagoons
are normally constructed downwind from the Community’s prevailing wind pattern, and
sufficiently far from housing areas. For example, the Department of Health and Social
Services requires a minimum 450 metre separation between the lagoon and the nearest
house or food storage area.
The most troublesome conditions are:
Overloaded short-detention lagoons;
If the problem is caused by one of the short-detention cells (in a multiple cell
arrangement), it may require shutdown and sludge removal. It the cause of the problem
is a continuing one because of too much wastewater, perhaps of higher strength than
anticipated, this can only be solved by constructing additional cells. The operator should
bring this to the attention of the supervisor.
Odour from short-detention lagoons and storage lagoons in the period following ice break-
up;
This problem will normally be of short duration – a week or so. It is also likely to occur
annually.
During an extensive period of cloud cover (in spring to fall when there is no ice cover),
resulting in reduced sunlight and therefore reduced algal activity and low oxygen
production;
“Hope” for sunshine soon.
Extensive floating sludge mats.
Floating scum, septic sludge and algae mats need to be broken up and dispersed.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-17

The operator of NWT lagoons has only limited opportunities to do anything about these
10
conditions.
Short Circuiting.
This is a particular problem in continuous discharge lagoons where the raw sewage
moves quickly toward the outfall. Make sure that you are dumping the truck in the
correct location (farthest point from the outfall). If problems persist, contact the MACA
office.
Figure 10-7 Example of floating mat on lagoon
10.7.2 WEED CONTROL
Plants around a lagoon can cause problems with berm integrity. The roots of large weeds
and shrubs can cause water to leak through the berm. Vegetation in or on the lagoon can
be a serious problem and may interfere with lagoon operation. The maintenance
problems must be handled routinely.
10.7.3 BERM VEGETATION
Planting greass on berms can be part of a design. The purpose of the grass is to prevent
or reduce erosion from wave action and from break-up and summer rain runoff. If used
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-18

it is usually planted soon after final shaping of the cells for all areas not under future
10
water cover. If not planted and if part of the design, you may wish to do it now.
You should plant fast growing and spreading grasses with shallow but dense roots. When
planting it, use netting, burlap or other protective material to hold the grass seeds in
place.
Remove weeds and unwanted plants by hand or mechanically.
Do not cover riprap protection with vegetation, as the vegetation will be difficult and
dangerous to control.
General guidelines for regular vegetation control:
Remove all trees and shrubs from the lagoon.
In areas where climate allows, plant or maintain shallow-dense rooted, perennial

grasses on the dikes.
Cut grass regularly during warm weather. Mowing equipment should have a low
centre of gravity to minimize the potential of overturning the tractor when
mowing along the berm slopes.
Cut vegetation on the inside face of the dike using a cutter bar or blade type
mower that works on hydraulic arms from a tractor. The tractor should be
equipped with a roll bar or cage.
Safety equipment and good judgement should be used when cutting the inside
slope (i.e. wear life preserver and have a second person around to watch
constantly for problems.)
10.7.4 LAGOON VEGETATION
Surface weeds can develop in lagoons. These weeds cause problems.
Weeds block out the sunlight, which is needed by algae to produce oxygen.
When the floating plants die, they decompose using up oxygen which is needed by the
bacteria.
Duckweed is one of the most common of the problem weeds. It is a three-leaved plant.
It develops long hair-like roots that harden in the water. It varies in colour from light
green during normal growth to brownish yellow in its death phase.
The ways to control surface weeds are as follows:
Natural control by ducks which may eat the weed; and
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-19

Skimming (often difficult and requires repeating).

10
The removed weeds should be taken to the landfill and buried, where possible, to prevent
odour and insect problems.
10.7.5 INSECT CONTROL
Flies and mosquitoes create the most common insect problems. Most mosquitoes breed
in sheltered, calm water containing vegetation and floating materials to which the female
can attach the eggs. The egg clusters are fragile and easily damaged by turbulent action
caused by wind and currents. Poor weed control and the accumulation of scum layer will
make insect problems worse.
To reduce insect problems:
Control ground and water surface weeds,
Maintain berms and fill potholes and puddles.
10.8 SLUDGE MANAGEMENT

General sludge management activities are required rarely. Anywhere from 5 to 10 years
may pass between sludge clean-out activities for a short detention lagoon cell. For long
detention lagoon cells, the time period between sludge clean-out efforts may be even
longer, or may never be required.
Two methods for clean-out are most common:
Dredging or pumping after mixing with lagoon water;
Draining, dewatering (usually use a freeze-thaw cycle) and removing by tractor.
Each of these is discussed further below:
10.8.1 PUMPING
The sludge accumulated in a lagoon over several years is usually too thick to pump
directly. Therefore the material must be mixed with lagoon water before pumping.
Commercial units are available for insuring proper mixing before pumping.
A spoil area should be provided near the lagoon for deposit of the sludge-water mixture.
This spoil area should be underlain with a seepage collection system consisting of sloped
drain pipes embedded in gravel and covered with sand. The seepage collected should be
returned to the lagoon system.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-20

SMALL SYSTEMS
10.8.2 DEWATERING
10
If your facilities allow one cell to be out of operation for an extended period, it can be
taken out of service and drained in the fall. During the winter, freezing will encourage
consolidation of the sewage and, upon thawing, further dewatering.
After draining or pumping of the last amount of free water, remove the solids with a
small tractor. Take care to prevent damage to the berm liner or surface during this
method of cleaning. In some situations, it has been desirable to place a 100 to 150 mm
layer of sand for a pathway to the bottom for the tractor to travel on. It is important to
have a skilled operator doing this work to reduce surface damage.
10.8.3 SLUDGE REMOVAL
The Water Board in your area regulates by the Department of Health, and the disposal of
sludge. Therefore, approval must be received from both these agencies for the method
and location for disposal. Disposal programs should be planned well in advance.
Prior to undertaking any removal and disposal, operators should be well aware of safety
and health considerations.
10.9 WETLAND SEWAGE TREATMENT AND OVERLAND FLOW

Wetland sewage treatment is a web of complex physical and biological processes. Some
of the processes that affect treatment are: sedimentation, absorption of pollutants in the
surface soils, nutrient uptake by plants, and the oxidation of compounds by micro
organisms.
Wetlands are transition zones between terrestrial (land) and aquatic (water)
environments. The word, “wetland”, is relatively new terminology which refers to all
types of wetland areas. For sewage treatment purposes vegetated areas that are normally
dry ground can be converted to a “wetland”.
The plants within a wetland act as natural purifiers trapping and binding pollutants in the
mud and roots. The plants also provide a media to which bacteria can cling as it grows.
These bacteria, many identical to those present in a mechanical sewage treatment plant,
remove carbon and nutrients from the water. Finally, the thin layer of now clean water
allows sunlight to penetrate deeply, thus, killing pathogenic organisms and disinfecting
the water.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-21

10
Figure 10-8 Overland flow
APPLIED
WASTEWATER GRASS AND
VEGETATIVE LITTER
EVAPOTRANSPIRATION
RUNOFF
SHEET FLOW COLLECTION
SLOPE 2-8%
PERCOLATION
10.9.1 WETLAND AND OVERLAND FLOW OPERATION
All wetlands in the NWT are natural wetlands which are not constructed. Constructed
wetlands would have certain plants planted and defined barriers around the borders. In
the NWT, natural plants are used and the wetland area is approximate.
Maintenance required for the wetland includes:
In the spring, monitor and record the flow into the wetland daily. Sewage should
flow slowly through the wetland to ensure it is being treated. If the sewage is
flowing fast enough to cause scouring, contact the MACA Regional Office.
Berms across the inlet of the wetland may be required to slow down the flow.
Experience with your system will tell you when the flow is too fast to properly
treat the sewage.
Once a week during the treatment season, walk around the wetland. Look for
dead plants, or foul odours. These could be indicators of anaerobic conditions,
indicating your wetland could be overloaded. If this happens, contact the MACA
Regional Office.
10.10 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS

The Water Board in your region is responsible for licensing the taking of water and the
disposal of wastewater. Many communities have water licences; others are waiting to
receive a licence.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-22

A typical water licence will, as a minimum, stipulate the amount of water that can be
10
taken for municipal use, where that water can be taken from, and where the wastewater
can be disposed.
There are other licence requirements of direct interest to the operator:
Reporting volumes for water use and sewage disposal;
Placement of signs around the lagoon and wetlands;
Placement of sample point markers;
Sewage effluent sampling requirements;
Spill reporting; and
Development of operation and maintenance procedures.
The operator is encouraged to read the licence for his community. If the operator is from
an unlicensed community, a typical licence is appended.
10.11 SPILL REPORTING

All spills and other emergencies must be reported immediately to:
24 hour Spill Report Line
Telephone (867) 920-8130
Fax: (867) 873-6924
A detailed report shall be submitted to the DIAND Water Resources Officer no less than
30 days after initially reporting the spill.
10.12 SEWAGE SPILLS

If you have a sewage spill, you must report it. You should also contact your EHO for
instructions on clean up.
10.13 RECORD KEEPING

You must keep records of all inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs, and
operational procedures. Every sewage treatment facility is subject to spills and sub-
standard discharges. Environmental agencies may be less likely to charge a municipality
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-23

or band with a competently operated facility that has simply had an accident. Records are
10
proof of a competent operation. Being found guilty of a charge can be very expensive.
Communities who use the Community Works Management System will find record
keeping an easier task. Community Works Management System Task Descriptions are
appended.
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-24

SMALL SYSTEMS
10.14 REVIEW
10
1. Annual retention lagoons are operated using
the_____________________ method.
2. A slowly decreasing pH value in the lagoon indicates
3. Who is the principal regulatory agency for lagoon effluents?
4. Describe the walk-around inspection for lagoons.
5. Before the annual discharge, what should the operator do?
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-25

10
Notes
11/02/07 DRAFT 10-26

SMALL SYSTEMS SOLID WASTE OPERATOR’S MANUAL
11
11.0 SOLID WASTE OPERATOR’S MANUAL
The objectives of any solid waste management system are to collect and dispose of
wastes in a manner that protects both the public health and the environment, and does so
through safe and economic means.
While this may seem like a tall order for operators, this manual’s purpose is to give you
the tools to achieve all of those goals.
The most important goal is to protect the public’s health and it starts with collection and
continues through disposal and landfill. If proper methods are not followed,
communicable diseases could be transmitted to people. Burning domestic waste can also
lead to air pollution that irritates people’s breathing.
11/02/07 DRAFT 11-1

SMALL SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF A MODIFIED LANDFILL
12
12.0 MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF A MODIFIED
LANDFILL
12.1 OBJECTIVES
Disposal Alternatives
Basic Operations
Trench Method
Area Method
Depression Method
Site Layout
Cover Material
Burning
12.2 BASIC WASTE MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

The objectives of any solid waste management system are to collect and dispose of
wastes in a manner that protects both the public health and the environment, and does so
through safe and economic means. Another important objective is to minimize the
operator’s risk of injury or disease.
12.3 SOLID WASTE CHARACTERISTICS

The following table shows the general composition of the three main categories of waste
produced in the NWT.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-1

SMALL SYSTEMS
Table 12-1
MANAGEMENT AND
Examples of different wastes

OPERATION OF A MODIFIED LANDFILL
12
Domestic Waste Bulky Wastes Hazardous Wastes
Household Garbage Cars
Oil based Paint
Snowmobiles
Solvents
Appliances
Propane Tanks
Engines
Waste Oil
Tires
Batteries
Clean storage tanks
Oil barrels
Scrap wood
Electronic Equipment
Scrap metal
Household Cleaners
12.4 BURNING IS NOT ACCEPTABLE

Open burning is no longer acceptable in the NWT, except for clean wood and paper.
Burning is a source of air pollution. Toxic gases and exploding aerosol cans can be
dangerous for the operator.
Contact RWED or see their website http://www.gov.nt.ca/RWED/eps/index.htm.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
If there is an accidental fire at the site, do not attempt to extinguish the fire
yourself. Immediately contact the fire department in your community. If
necessary, at the direction of the fire marshal, access to the site may have to
be barricaded.
12.5 DISPOSAL ALTERNATIVES

Some of the methods that are currently being used, or have been used in the past in the
NWT include:
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-2

SMALL SYSTEMS
Open dump
MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF A MODIFIED LANDFILL
12
Modified landfill
Sanitary landfill
Incineration and landfill
12.5.1 THE OPEN DUMP IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE
The open dump is no longer acceptable in the North. The open dump was typically an
unsupervised, uncontrolled operation where all wastes are mixed together. The only site
operation was keeping the access road, and any other work and the working area
accessible.
Exposed garbage and sewage are a hazard to humans and animals. Liquid leaving the site
may contain toxic materials that pollute the environment. Open dumps are an unsafe
nuisance and not an unacceptable method of disposing waste.
12.5.2 MODIFIED LANDFILL
The modified landfill has become the minimum acceptable standard for NWT
communities. In this method wastes are separated into various categories:
Bulky materials, such as old pickup trucks and skidoos;
Reusable materials such as wood and metal;
Hazardous waste such as chemicals and honey bags;
Household garbage, or domestic waste; and
Honeybags (in a separate pit).
The waste from each of the categories is disposed into different areas of the site.
Once disposed, household garbage is compacted regularly and then covered with a
suitable cover material a couple of times a year.
Scavenging at the dump is a way of life in the North. A modified landfill will still allow
some recycling of useful materials without exposing people to hazardous wastes and to
garbage that may lead to their injury or sickness.
Even the best run site still exposes people to danger. Scavenging should be discouraged,
not only for health and safety reasons, but because of the possibility of liability claims
should someone become sick or injured.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-3

Modified landfills will be the focus of the following operation and maintenance sections.
12
12.5.3 SANITARY LANDFILL
In communities in the NWT there is usually not enough cover material available, or the
material is too costly, to operate a sanitary landfill. Sanitary landfills will not be
discussed further.
12.5.4 INCINERATION AND LANDFILL
Incineration of domestic waste and then landfilling the ash is currently done at some
mines in the NWT. This method is expensive and is usually only chosen if there is not
enough land available for a modified landfill.
In the NWT, RWED has recently adopted new national guidelines on dioxins and furans.
The release of dioxins and furans are a form of air pollution that are released from solid
waste incinerators. Without expensive filters and scrubbers, incinerators would not meet
the new guidelines. Incineration will not be discussed further as a method of solid waste
disposal.
Figure 12-1 Typical layout for a modified landfill, using the trench disposal method
TREELINE BULKY WASTE SCRAP METAL

FENCE SALVAGEABLE WOOD
TRENCH FOR GARBAGE DISPOSAL...YEARS 1 - 6
GATED
ENTRANCE

HAZARDOUS
HONEY
BAG PIT WASTE DOG LEGGED
ACCESS
TREE BUFFER
12.6 BASIC OPERATIONS OF A MODIFIED LANDFILL

For a modified landfill wastes should be disposed into their designated areas. Figure 12.1
shows a typical layout.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-4

Domestic wastes are concentrated into a small manageable section. Domestic wastes are
12
regularly compacted. Compacting is also known as "pushing the dump", where the dozer
is run back and forth over the waste, three to five times, and the waste is packed into a
tight layer. In a modified landfill, compacting should be done once a week.
When the area is full, the final cover should be about 600 millimetres thick of well
packed material which has been placed in a maximum of 100 centimetre increments. The
final surface has to be slightly raised and rounded so that water will run off and not
percolate down into and through the garbage.
Figures 12.2, 12.3, and 12.4 show how each type of ground can be operated as a modified
sanitary landfill.
12.7 COVER MATERIAL

Cover material serves three important purposes: it prevents wastes from being scattered
by the wind; it prevents insects and animals from digging through the wastes; and it can
prevent or minimize the amount of water entering the garbage.
In many communities it will be difficult to get adequate cover material and the
community needs to stockpile material at the site to last the winter months.
Construction quality sand and gravel, should not be used for cover material. Non-
construction quality soils should be used instead. Operators should watch for waste soil
from building construction sites or from other sources. This waste soil can be stockpiled
at the solid waste site for later use as cover material. Soil with high clay content is
preferred for final cover material as it resists water infiltration.
12.8 HONEY BAG AREA OPERATION

In the NWT, honey bags are considered to be a hazardous waste because they may
contain pathogenic organisms. This is the reason they are disposed in a separate pit. The
honey bag disposal area is operated in a similar manner to the domestic site, except that
the wastes are not compacted. It is important that the honey bag area is away from any
areas where scavenging may occur.
12.9 ANIMAL WASTES

Animal wastes must be disposed properly. Contact your EHO for details.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-5

12
Figure 12-2 Area Method with second layer
1. Build berm, 2 m high.

Dump garbage near the berm.
2. Drive over the garbage 3 to 5 times.

Work the garbage up the berm a little
at a time to pack it. Do this once per
week.
3. Alternate between dumping and

packing garbage until packed garbage
is 2 m high.
4. In spring or fall, or when garbage

is 3 m wide, cover garbage with
0.3 m of granular material to make a cell.
5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 until site is full.

Then cover all garbage with 0.3 m
of granular material. Pack and add more
granular material until top is level.
6. Build new 2 m berm on top of

cells.
7. Repeat steps 1 to 5.
8. To close out site, put 0.6 m of

granular material on cells then
pack with bulldozer so that water
runs off.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-6

Figure 12-3 Depression Method

12
1. Dump garbage near slope.
2. Spread the garbage down the slope.
3. Work garbage back upslope a little

at a time. Drive over the garbage
3 to 5 times to pack it. Do this once
per week.
4. Alternate between dumping and

packing until the garbage is 2 m high.
5. In the spring or fall, or when garbage is about

3 m wide, cover garbage with 0.3 m of
granular material and pack with bulldozer
to make a cell.
Repeat steps 1 to 4 until landfill is full.
To close out site, put 0.6 m of

granular material on garbage and pack so
that water runs off.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-7

12
Figure 12-4 Trench Method
1. Dig trench 6 m wide and up to

2.5 m deep. Slope sides to prevent
cave-ins. Build wheel stop berm on
dumping side, 0.45 m high.
2. Dump garbage into trench.
3. Use bulldozer to pack the garbage

by driving over it 3 to 5 times,
once per week, until garbage is
1 m high.
4. If trench is deep enough to do more

than one layer of garbage, pack 0.3 m
of granular material between layers
of garbage.
5. Cover garbage with 0.3 m of

granular material from new trench
when crushed garbage is 1 m high.
Make sure to build a new 0.45m
wheel stop berm for next trench.
6. Add and pack granular material

with bulldozer until even with
ground.
7. To close out trench, pack granular

material with bulldozer until hard
so that water runs off.
Add more granular material to make
mound 0.3 high in the middle.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-8

12
12.10 BULKY WASTE AREA OPERATION
Bulky wastes including construction wastes that are salvageable make up what is also
called the "bone yard" of the site.
The “bone yard” is a storage area for large objects that may have some use in the future,
or that are so large that they would quickly fill the domestic waste site. They can be
segregated further so that, for example, truck bodies are separate from metal pipes and
pieces of sheet metal and pipes.
The operator should ensure that metal wastes are disposed in such a way that it is safe to
walk through the site.
At some point in the future, there will be enough bulky wastes stored at the site to
warrant a project to remove them from the community.
Objects containing ozone depleting substances must be properly handled. Contact

RWED or see their website http://www.gov.nt.ca/RWED/eps/index.htm.
12.10.1 ENCOURAGING RECYCLING OF USEFUL MATERIALS
The best way to reduce the dangerous practice of scavenging is to reduce the amount of
salvageable/useable material that is disposed at the site. This is accomplished through
separation at source and recycling programs in the community. In simplest terms, if there
is nothing to be scavenged at the dump, no one will go there.
A separate site could be developed as shown in the Figure 12-1, or at a separate remote
site, where salvable materials are available for recycling. Signs should indicate areas
where materials are to be deposited, for example, tires, metals etc.
While there may be limited opportunity to recycle materials such as aluminium cans, it is
not these items that cause problems at the site. Construction wastes make up as much as
40% of the materials entering a site. If properly managed, much of this waste can be
eliminated. The best approach is if operators work out a program of recycling with
construction contractors. However only band/municipal bylaws can force a contractor if
he or she is unwilling to voluntarily participate, or to dispose their wastes properly
Scavenging can also be reduced to when the site is supervised. This requires putting up
fences and staff the landfill site when it is open.
12.11 FENCING
You should install and maintain fences at solid waste facilities for the following reasons.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-9

To control or limit access to the landfill site by community residents;

12
To prevent scavenging animals from causing a nuisance and risking the safety of
workers and residents; and
To control the spreading of blowing garbage.
Fencing may be portable or permanent and may be woven or chain linked.
Wooden fences should not be used, as they can be a fire hazard.
Put a gate on the entrance and provide times for the public to enter the site should be
implemented.
Install snow fencing during the winter to reduce snow accumulation within the site. This
will reduce the amount runoff on site and prevent drainage problems in the spring.
Consider putting a portable litter fence placed down wind from the domestic garbage
working area will reduce wind blown litter. These fences can be made inexpensively
from materials in the bone yard.
Electric fencing has proven to be an effective deterrent against bears. If bears are a
problem in your community solid waste site, bring up the issue with your MACA
Regional Office.
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-10

12
Notes
11/02/07 DRAFT 12-11

SMALL SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES FOR A MODIFIED LANDFILL
13
13.0 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES FOR A MODIFIED LANDFILL
13.1 OBJECTIVES
General solid waste site maintenance procedures;
Safe hazardous waste handling and storage;
Water licence requirements; and
Record keeping
13.2 ACCESS ROADS

Maintain access roads in accordance with the quality standards for a Priority 3 Road
outlined in the Community Works Management System, and snow removal should be
undertaken accordingly.
13.3 FENCES
Examine both portable and permanent fences frequently for holes. Permanent fence posts
should be checked for frost jacking. Litter should be cleaned up regularly.
13.4 SIGNS
Warning signs are a water licence requirement on landfill sites. Make sure there are signs
and public information so that the rules of operation for the site are followed. Examples of
proper signage can be seen in figure 9.1. Signage properly labels different sections of the
landfill and gives public warning to incorrect dumping practices
13.5 DRAINAGE
Surface water from snow melt and rain must be directed away from important water areas,
such as drinking water sources or recreational areas. Also prevent water from entering the
site by two methods: site selection; and control berms. Sites should be chosen so that they
receive as little surface water as possible, and the water they receive does not naturally
flow into an important water area. Once the site has been selected, control berms are used
to further direct water away from the site.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-1

Mapping will assist in choosing a site, but once the site is in operation surface water that
13
originates at the site may not move in the direction expected. Maintain the site with an eye
to drainage, but where that is not possible, control berms should be used. These control
berms could be temporary structures as needed, for once their purpose has been completed,
they could be moved to another part of the site.
Monitor drainage from closed areas within the site annually to ensure that the closure
remains intact and water is not causing erosion or infiltration problems.
Figure 9.1 Signage in a Modified Lanfill.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-2

SMALL SYSTEMS
Figure 9.2
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES FOR A MODIFIED LANDFILL
An Improperly Drained Site.

13
13.6 ODOURS
It is very natural for decomposing garbage to have an odour. In the summer odour from the
site can be quite strong. If odour becomes a problem, it is best treated by covering with
300 millimetres of cover material.
13.7 HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT

Hazardous wastes are chemicals such as oil, solvents, acids, and cleaners. There are too
many different types of hazardous materials to list them here. Most hazardous wastes are
fairly obvious because it says they are hazardous on the label of their container. They
come from a number of different sources in the community including:
Construction wastes;
The maintenance garage;
Commercial or industrial operations; and
Households.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-3

Do not dispose of these wastes with the rest of the garbage. Instead they should be
13
separated from the rest of the garbage and stored in properly signed, designated areas at the
solid waste management site.
Some hazardous wastes cannot be stored outside and must be stored in an approved waste
storage locker. Once the lockers get full, plans will made to remove the wastes or to
provide more storage. Storage lockers must be CSA or UL approved, maintained under the
responsibility of trained personnel. The Fire Marshall must approve all lockers. Contact
MACA for details.
All storage and handling of hazardous wastes must be approved by ENR. Contact ENR
directly or see their website http://www.gov.nt.ca/ENR.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY
Do not mix hazardous wastes together, unless they are of the same type. For
example waste oil. Mixing of certain solvents and acids could cause an
explosion. Consult with ENR regarding the specific products before storing
them in the same barrel. If you are not sure what the waste is, store it separately
from all other hazardous wastes.
13.8 HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION ALTERNATIVES

You can collect hazardous wastes in a number of ways:
Hazardous wastes could be brought to the operator whenever they are generated;
Operators could provide a "Hazardous Waste Taxi" and pick up wastes whenever
they are called to do so; or
The community could require hazardous waste generators to store their wastes until
the community can run a "Hazardous Waste Day" at which time all hazardous
wastes are brought to the operator for storage.
A combination of the three methods is probably the best alternative. Note that none of the
alternatives have the waste generator disposing the waste himself. There are legal
liabilities of which the operator should be aware. Once the operator has accepted the
waste, he is legally responsible to dispose of it in a safe manner.
13.9 TRACKING HAZARDOUS WASTE

It is important that than an inventory is kept of the quantity and volume all the hazardous
waste stored in the community. A typical form could have the following headings.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-4

Figure 13-1 Typical hazardous waste tracking information

13
Type Quantity Location Date Stored Dated Initial
Removed
Oil 2 barrels MSW site Nov 21/02 JK
Varsol 2 litres Locker A Jan 03/03 BL
Battery Acid 1 litre Locker B June 19/03 RK
13.10 HAZARDOUS WASTE STORAGE

There should be a secure storage site for hazardous wastes in the community. Probably the
best site is away from the community at the solid waste management site. This way it will
be constantly monitored and protected from vandals.
Fence hazardous waste storage areas, isolating the area from the rest of the site and
preventing public access. Based on the inventory of wastes, sufficient and separate storage
should be provided. Storage lockers must be CSA or UL approved, maintained under the
responsibility of trained personnel. Readers are referred to the RWED website -
http://www.gov.nt.ca/RWED/eps/index.htm
13.10.1DEALING WITH WASTE OIL
Waste oil is the biggest hazardous waste problem in the NWT, but there are quite a number
of ways to deal with it:
Put it in barrels at the hazardous waste site;
Use it for fuel in a waste oil burner to heat a community building. During
combustion, only 50-85% of the lead and 36-60% of the zinc is released into the
atmosphere;
A waste oil injector can be retrofit to a piece of heavy equipment such as the dozer
or the loader, and the waste oil can be used as a fuel;
Mix it with heating fuel and used in a regular furnace. Waste oil may be filtered to
remove sediments and water prior to blending. The ratio of 100:1 (fuel oil : waste
oil) is used as a maximum. Burning a filtered blended product does not cause
harmful air pollution if the conditions of burning are chosen properly. Filter
residuals must be stored for further treatment; and
Barrel it and ship to another community who is willing to take the oil.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-5

13
Waste oil must not be used for dust control.
13.10.2 DEALING WITH TANK SLUDGES AND HEAVY TARS
Tank sludges are the sediments that accumulate at the bottom of fuel tanks. These may
contain hazardous components but are usually improperly disposed at dumps or by open
burning. Tank sludges and heavy tars should be stored in barrels at the hazardous waste
site.
13.10.3 DEALING WITH WASTE ANTIFREEZE
Antifreeze is a mixture of ethylene glycol and water used as engine coolant that resists
freezing at temperatures as low as minus 40 Celsius. It often contains small amounts of
metal contaminants and other compounds that resist corrosion. It is poisonous, particularly
to animals, which can die after drinking "sweet tasting" puddles of antifreeze. In past,
antifreeze has been disposed of in dumps, discharged into the ocean, or by spreading on
roads for dust suppression. These practices are hazardous.
Do not dispose of waste antifreeze in the domestic waste area or into the sewage lagoon.
Store waste antifreeze at the hazardous waste storage site until it can be sent out for
recycling.
13.10.4 DEALING WITH SPENT SOLVENTS
Solvents have been improperly disposed of by landfilling, burning, or spreading on roads

for dust suppression. Solvents can be extremely toxic and flammable; many are
carcinogenic.
Check with Environmental Protection Service of RWED for directions on how to store or
dispose of these wastes before you handle them.
http://www.gov.nt.ca/RWED/eps/index.htm
13.10.5 DEALING WITH WASTE PAINTS
Latex paints are considered non-toxic and do not require special treatment.
Oil-based paints. lacquers, enamels, and sealers are considered to be toxic because of the
solvents they contain. Some older paints contain lead, mercury or PCB's. Waste paints are
usually disposed in dumpsites. Appropriate technologies include:
Reuse can be achieved by sorting (latex or oil) and blending. The resulting paint may be
used as a primer; or
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-6

Evaporation can be achieved by pouring the paint onto absorbent material such as
13
newsprint and allowing it to dry before disposal to the landfill.
13.11 FINAL DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTES

The Environmental Protection Service of RWED must approve plans for the disposal of
any hazardous waste. http://www.gov.nt.ca/RWED/eps/index.htm
13.12 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT SITES

Because waste management sites can cause pollution, a typical water licence will contain
clauses to reduce the potential for pollution. Most licences contain clauses that require:
Management of hazardous wastes;
Segregation of domestic wastes, metal and recyclable wastes;
Method and frequency of site maintenance;
Reporting the number of honey bags disposed at the site;
Placement signs and sample point markers;
Taking samples of leachate and runoff from the site;
Minimizing the production of leachate and runoff with the careful placement of
drainage control measures such as berms;
Development of operation and maintenance manuals;
The community to obtain approval from the Water Board if they wish to move to
another site; and
The preparation of an Abandonment and Restoration Plan before closing out an old
site.
A typical water licence is appended for reference but the operator should read the licence
for his community if his community has a licence.
Over the years, the GNWT has developed a very good relationship with the Water Boards.
Even though a community may be unlicensed, the GNWT still strives to meet the general
terms and conditions of a licence. The primary exceptions are in reporting water volumes
and taking sewage samples. All the other conditions are met. It is important that we all
continue these efforts to maintain in order to maintain a good relationship with the area
Water Board.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-7

SMALL SYSTEMS
13.13 RECORD KEEPING

13
Records of solid waste disposal are not routinely kept in the communities. However, this is
very important aspect of the operation for the purposes of:
Proper planning;
Payment for contractors;
Protection against liability; and
To know what has been disposed at the site; and
Water Boards requirements.
Records of the following should be kept with:
What volume, for example how many truckloads, of domestic garbage are taken to
the domestic disposal site each day;
How many honey bags are taken to the honey bag disposal site each day;
What volume and types of other wastes are disposed in other areas of the site; and
What types and how much hazardous waste is stored at the storage site.
In addition to these records, it is important the records of operation and maintenance at the
site are kept. Record keeping need not be an elaborate procedure. Keeping a simple
logbook is sufficient.
Communities who use the Community Works Management System will find record
keeping an easier task. Community Works Management System Task Descriptions are
appended.
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-8

SMALL SYSTEMS
13.14 REVIEW
13
1. What are the main areas of a solid waste management site?
2. Describe how a dump can be operated as a modified landfill.
3. What should you do if your solid waste management site catches on fire?
4. How do you keep water away from a site?
5. What are hazardous wastes in your community?
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-9

13
Notes
11/02/07 DRAFT 13-10

SSWT-Update by Dillon June 4 2007

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Small Systems Water Treatment Plant Operator

Government of the Northwest Territories

Municipal and Community Affairs

P.O. Box 1320

Yellowknife, NT X1A 3S9

FSC Architects & Engineers

4910 53rd Street

P.O. Box 1777

Yellowknife, NT X1A 2P4

FSC Project Number: 2003-0070

1.0 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................... 1-1

3.0 WATER SOURCES & CHARACTERISTICS ................................... 3-1

4.0 SYSTEM COMPONENTS ............................................................. 4-1

5.0 DISINFECTION........................................................................... 5-1

7.0 SAFETY FOR WATER TREATMENT ............................................ 7-1

8.0 INTRODUCTION TO SEWAGE LAGOON MANAGEMENT .............. 8-1

10.0 SEWAGE LAGOON OPERATION & MAINTENANCE .................... 10-1

13.0 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES FOR A MODIFIED LANDFILL ..... 13-1

ADDENDUM A – MATH TOPICS

The operator has three primary goals to achieve:

Protect the public's health

Protect the environment

Protect the public's purse.

When the operator does his job well, no one notices.

When the operator does his job poorly, everyone notices.

What are the responsibilities of the operator in Water Treatment?

The operator has two basic responsibilities.

What are the responsibilities of the operator in Sewage Treatment?

Here, too, the operator has two basic responsibilities.

Sewage causes both disease and pollution.

Here, you also have two basic responsibilities.

What are the responsibilities of the operator to fellow workers?

You must help your fellow workers work safely.

What are the responsibilities of the operator to himself?

What is in this manual?

Water quality regulations

When a Water licence is required

Your duty to comply to your Water licence

2.2 NWT PUBLIC HEALTH ACT

2.3 BOIL WATER ORDERS

2.4 WATER LICENCE REQUIREMENTS

Report volumes for water use and sewage disposal;

Place signs and sample point markers at sites;

Sample sewage effluent as required;

Report spills; and

Develop operation and maintenance manuals.

2.5 OPERATING AGREEMENTS

2.6 GUIDELINES FOR CANADIAN DRINKING WATER QUALITY

The Federal-Provincial subcommittee which reports to the Conference of Deputy

Operators should read this document for definitions of Maximum Acceptable

2.7 MULTI-BARRIER APPROACH TO SAFEGUARDING RAW WATER

The multi-barrier approach is...

… an integrated system of procedures, processes and tools that

As a safeguard, it is important for contingency plans to be in place to respond to incidents

Legislative and policy frameworks

Public involvement and awareness

Guidelines, standards and objectives

The development of science and technology solutions

More information can be found at:

Figure 2-1 The Multi-Barrier Approach

2. What tasks are you required to do to fulfil the requirements of your

3. What are your responsibilities to others?

4. What tasks are your responsibilities to yourself?

3.0 WATER SOURCES & CHARACTERISTICS