Operation of Sewer Systems

Abstract

Urban sewerage and drainage systems are important infrastructures which require large financial investments. To protect these investments and ensure delivery of sewerage services, such systems have to be properly operated and maintained, with adequate financing and administrative control. Thus, the operation of sewer systems can be defined as a set of procedures designed to provide a service by collecting, transporting, and managing the quality of, urban wastewater in a cost-effective, environmentally responsible and sustainable way. More specifically, the process of operation comprises all activities conducted after placing the sewer system into operation — including the specification of system performance parameters, day-to-clay operation rules, inspection procedures, short-term and long-term maintenance, financial aspects, and administrative control. Further explanations of these issues follow.