What issues can indirect dischargers contribute to for POTWs?

Indirect dischargers, which refer to facilities that discharge wastewater into a publicly owned treatment works (POTW) through a sewer system rather than directly into water bodies, can introduce serious structural issues for these treatment facilities. This can occur when the wastewater they discharge contains materials that are corrosive or harmful to the infrastructure of the POTW. These materials can lead to deterioration of pipes, tanks, and other structural components over time, requiring additional maintenance or repairs.

The presence of certain pollutants, particularly heavy metals, oils, or hazardous wastes, can also lead to problems in the treatment processes themselves, causing damage to equipment, increasing the risk of failures, and ultimately impacting the overall efficiency of the treatment plant. Maintaining structural integrity is crucial for the reliable operation of POTWs, and any degradation can compromise their ability to effectively treat wastewater and meet regulatory standards.