HSTP considerations in Somerset
Guidelines for on-site sewerage facilities in the Somerset Regional Council area
Areas of the Somerset region which are not connected to the main sewer infrastructure require some form of private wastewater treatment system. Under council guidelines, there are several different options you can choose from. Options include:
- HSTP - home sewage treatment plant
- AWTS - aerated wastewater treatment system
- AWTP - all waste treatment plant
- ASFS - aerobic sand filtration system
- Septic System
- Biofilter systems
- Composting toilets
- Activated sludge systems
Properties in the Somerset catchment area will need to be assessed by SEQ Water to ensure compliance with development guidelines for water quality management. SEQ Water works in conjunction with landowners in the region to manage the area and the water quality levels.
SEQ Water requires that wastewater treatment systems are designed, constructed, and managed in ways that do not compromise the drinking water supply environmental values.
Looking after your home wastewater treatment plant
Maintaining a healthy, well-functioning home wastewater treatment plant reduces breakdowns, extends the life of your system and avoids issues such as bad odours, pollution and blockages.
The Somerset Regional Council recommend avoiding the use of certain products in your home to protect the bacteria balance in the treatment plant or septic system.
Avoid:
- Chlorine, disinfectant, acid cleaning products, bleach and other heavy chemicals.
- Nappy soaker or pre-wash stain removers
- Antibacterial washing liquid or hand soap
- Excessive amounts of fat, oil, grease and milk
- Foreign objects such as nappies, wet wipes, sanitary items, and food scraps
Council recommends using cleaning products which don't contain harsh disinfectants, bleaches or antibacterials.
HSTP maintenance
Council recommends professional routine HSTP servicing to ensure your sewerage system is producing the highest quality wastewater possible to maintain a healthy environment in your area.
Care needs to be taken to avoid covering the tanks with earth, cement or other materials, maintain easy access to the system, prevent stormwater from entering the plant, and keep vegetation and grass under control in disbursal areas.
More information on the Somerset Regional Council guidelines can be found here - somerset.qld.gov.au
On-site sewerage plant installation & servicing of Somerset
Express Wastewater Solutions can take care of your on-site sewerage system within the Somerset Region ensuring that your system complies with all the relevant council and SEQ Water guidelines and requirements.