NEGLECTED MAINTENANCE PUTS COMPLIANCE AT RISK
Ahead of refurbishment works, we were instructed by a new client to complete a drainage survey on a busy commercial site in Northampton.
A drainage survey ahead of a refurbishment is key for a number of reasons, to highlight any liabilities, advise on any upcoming issues that should be budgeted for, in addition to highlighting capacity or compliance issues, all prior to investment.
Our Findings
We found the overall condition of the drainage system to be in a moderate condition. However, there was a number of indicators of a lack of maintenance, in addition to a non-compliant wash down which presents a serious risk.
There were several seized inspection covers (can be a sign of lack of maintenance), which are required for maintenance and inspection access.
We also found a significant amount of blockages and silt and debris build-up, limiting our view of the system as a whole which can hide defects. Furthermore, there was a case of root ingress requiring removal and repair to restore working capacity and prevent re-growth.
Compliance Issues
Alongside the maintenance concerns, we identified a non-compliant wash down area discharging directly into the surface water system.
It is a legal requirement under the Water Resources Act 1991 that wash-down effluent, with its associated pollutants, chemical and sediments should not discharge to the surface-water sewer system. We identified that the arrangement on site does not meet current requirements.
To ensure compliance, we recommended the discharge should be redirected to the foul sewer system, subject to approval from the relevant sewer provider and the implementation of a Trade Effluent Consent.
There is also an oil interceptor on site, which is good practice but requires regular maintenance to remain effective.
Other Long term Concerns
When addressing the material of the pipework, we found 9m of pitch fibre drain pipes which may require replacement in the near future.
Pitch fibre was commonly used in the 1950s and 1960s as it was cheap and readily available. However, it only has a life span of 40 years and has a tendency to flatten, bubble and collapse at the end. So, any pitch fibre drain pipes found now are advised to replace before the they fail.
Our Solution
We recommended the following to the client, along with a breakdown of costs:
- Re-routing the the non-compliant wash down to a foul system with prior permission from the sewer provider and a Trade Effluent Consent in place.
- The 9m of pitch fibre drains is replaced in the near future, allowing time for budgeting.
- Oil interceptor requires maintenance to remain effective.
These recommendations will prepare the site for future maintenance, ensuring compliance, effectiveness, and safe access, particularly with an oil interceptor in place.