Regulating Water Recycling
Content
· Regulatory approaches
· System approvals
· System management
Regulatory Approaches
The development and implementation of water recycling regulations and guidelines have played an important part in opening up water recycling opportunities. Regulations and guidelines usually address the measures necessary to ensure protection of public health and the environment.
Understanding the difference between regulations and guidelines is important.
- Regulations are mandatory and are enforceable by government agencies.
- Guidelines are advisory, voluntary and non-enforceable.
Some jurisdictions prefer guidelines to allow flexibility in regulatory requirements to suit project-specific conditions. Guidelines may become enforceable requirements if incorporated in project approvals or permits. However, inequities may arise if guidelines are not uniformly applied.
An advantage of guidelines is the level of regulatory certainty provided to project sponsors.
System Approvals
System approval requirements may include:
· Health risk assessment;
· Environmental assessment;
· Assessment of irrigation impacts on soils and groundwater;
· Proof testing of treatment processes to ensure water quality requirements are met;
· Ongoing monitoring and reporting requirements.
System Management and Quality Systems
In some jurisdictions, the running of a recycled water quality management system is a requirement for system approval and/or liability insurance cover. In some jurisdictions, the suppliers of products also have product quality liabilities under commercial law. A Hazard Assessment and Critical Control Point (HACCP) approach can be used to undertake a systematic assessment of risks and identification of control and mitigation measures which should be included in a recycled water quality management system.
References
Asano, T. et al (2007) Water reuse: issues, technologies and applications, McGraw-Hill New York, ISBN-13: 978-0-07-145927-3,
- Chapter 4: Water Reuse Regulations and Guidelines.
