Industrial wastewater treatment can mean the difference between complying with environmental regulations and being slapped with a hefty fine. Even if your business has a permit to dump untreated wastewater, investing in your own wastewater treatment system can save your business hundreds of thousands of dollars in permit fines in the end.

There are several types of waste that you cannot dump without treating. This list reflects an incomplete list, so be sure to contact your local waterworks for more details on wastewater treatment issues in your area.

1. Acids/Bases. Most municipalities will not tolerate dumping strong acids and bases without first neutralizing them in wastewater treatment systems.

2. Solvents/Carcinogens. Any chemical toxic to life must undergo wastewater treatment prior to dumping.

3. Metals. Precipitating metals out of wastewater is an effective industrial wastewater treatment.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Know the industrial wastewater treatment types you'll need

Although individual states most closely regulate your wastewater treatment requirements, least, each state must follow EPA guidance at the very least. Therefore the EPA is a good place to start in your search for wastewater treatment information.

I recommend: Look into the EPA's pretreatment options that your business can try to reduce the hazardous effects of your wastewater. With these methods, you may set up your own wastewater treatment system and avoid fees associated with wastewater treatment services. For companies that eliminate sludge, look into the EPA's regulations on the wastewater treatment of biosolids, also called sludge.

Buy your own wastewater treatment systems to save money over time

Instead of hauling your industrial waste to the wastewater treatment plant, why not treat your waste onsite? Several companies provide wastewater treatment equipment. You just need to know where to look.

I recommend: Water and Wastewater offers a directory of wastewater treatment tools, such as equipment and chemicals. Wastewater Treatment Equipment also maintains a directory of companies who sell wastewater treatment systems.

Find wastewater treatment services to haul away and properly dispose of your waste

With thousands of wastewater treatment providers, you can surely find a wastewater treatment plant or service near you. Remember the nearer you can find a facility, the less you'll end up spending in hauling fees.

I recommend: To find a wastewater treatment plant, search Waste And Wastewater for listings by state. To find wastewater treatment services, try ThomasNet. SalesGenie.com can also help you find wastewater treatment providers near you.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consult your municipal waterworks before seeking out wastewater treatment providers. You may be surprised at what you can send to your municipal wastewater treatment plant.
• •  Only buy equipment from companies who offer consulting in the wastewater treatment process you intend to use. If you don't have an analytical background, you'll need plenty of support in setting up your new wastewater treatment technologies.