Effluent from septic tanks is highly polluting and can pose significant risk to groundwater, surface water and public health. In view of the need to safeguard public health, protect the environment and ensure compliance with relevant legislation, particularly the Building Regulations (1991), improvements in the location and control of on-site wastewater treatment systems are required.

Under Article 22(2)(c) of the Planning and Development Regulations 2006, where it is proposed to dispose of wastewater other than to a public sewer from a development proposed as part of a planning application to a planning authority, the applicant must submit information on the type of on-site treatment system proposed and evidence as to the suitability of the site for the system proposed as part of that planning application.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently published a Draft Code of Practice on Wastewater Treatment Systems for Single Houses (PE<10) and following a period of consultation the Draft CoP is now being finalised. It is anticipated the NSAI will withdraw SR6:1991 in favour of the revised EPA CoP.

A Site Suitability Assessment comprising a Site Characterisation Study involves establishing the answers to 3 key questions for a proposed site:

1. Will the effluent get away underground, without ponding at the surface? (The Hydraulic issue);
2. Will the effluent be treated adequately before a relevant receptor is reached? (The Attenuation issue); and
3. Will all minimum separation distances be complied with? (The Site Restrictions issue).

The above includes, a Desk Study, An On-Site Assessment including a Visual Assessment of the site, Trial Hole excavation and examination of soils and Percolation tests.

For further information or a quotation please do not hesitate to contact the Sales Team on 041 984 5440 or info@euroenv.ie .