Binder was appointed to install a temporary sewage treatment system at a Norfolk college to enable major refurbishment works on the existing sewage treatment works (STW). The project involved upgrading the primary settlement tank, inlet flume and filter bed siphon chamber while ensuring uninterrupted sewage management across the site.
The objective was to intercept and divert the main sewage flow into a temporary holding system, allowing maintenance and rehabilitation works to be completed safely and efficiently without disrupting the college’s operations.
The Challenge
The college’s sewage treatment infrastructure required significant maintenance and refurbishment to ensure continued reliability and efficient operation.
Key challenges included:
- Refurbishment of the primary settlement tank and associated infrastructure
- Maintaining uninterrupted sewage management while the main system was offline
- Preventing environmental risks during the works Improving the long-term reliability of the sewage treatment works
- Ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations
The project required a carefully managed temporary solution that would allow the existing treatment plant to be taken offline without affecting site operations.
Our Solution
Binder designed and implemented a comprehensive temporary sewage management system to maintain service throughout the refurbishment programme.
Temporary Tank Installation
A 56m³ temporary holding tank was installed near the dual pump station to intercept and store the site’s main sewage flow while refurbishment works took place.
Pump Station Modifications
The existing dual pump station was temporarily disconnected and modified, with a temporary pump installed to transfer sewage flows into the holding tank.
Auto Dialler Alarm System
To provide continuous monitoring, Binder installed a temporary auto dialler alarm system. This was configured to alert the team 24/7 if tank levels became too high or desludging was required, helping to prevent overflows and ensure smooth operation throughout the project.
Refurbishment and Rehabilitation Works
Once the temporary system was fully operational, the existing sewage treatment works were taken offline.
The project included:
Desludging and Cleaning
The primary settlement tank, inlet flume and siphon chamber were over-pumped, desludged and thoroughly pressure washed to prepare them for refurbishment works.
Structural Repairs and Resin Application
Scaffolding was erected within the settlement tank to provide safe access for specialist contractors carrying out resin application works. These repairs were completed in accordance with the project specification, helping to restore and protect the infrastructure.
System Recommissioning
Following completion of the refurbishment works, Binder dismantled the temporary infrastructure, reinstated the treatment plant and successfully recommissioned the system.
Equipment Used
The project utilised a range of specialist equipment, including:
- 56m³ temporary holding tank
- Temporary transfer pump
- Auto dialler alarm system
- Scaffolding systems
- High-pressure washing equipment
This equipment enabled the works to be completed safely, efficiently and without disruption to sewage management on site.
Results and Benefits
The project was completed successfully, with the college’s sewage treatment works rehabilitated and upgraded for long-term performance.
Uninterrupted Service
The temporary sewage treatment system ensured wastewater continued to be managed safely while the primary treatment infrastructure was offline.
Improved Safety and Compliance
The addition of the auto dialler monitoring system provided enhanced oversight and helped maintain compliance with environmental and operational requirements throughout the project.
Extended Asset Life
The refurbishment and rehabilitation works significantly improved the condition of the sewage treatment works, reducing the likelihood of future failures and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure.
Future Reliability
With upgraded assets and renewed infrastructure, the college now benefits from a more reliable and resilient sewage treatment system capable of supporting ongoing operations.
