Augusta Water Treatment Filter Plant - Executive Summary |
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I. As employees of Augusta-Richmond County Utilities Department, we have the responsibility to manage our operations to protect human health and the environment. Sound health, safety, and the environment practices are an integral part of our everyday job requirements. In recognition of this responsibility, we will correct an unsound health, safety, and environmental practices or condition, or call them to the attention of those who will do so, as soon as they are identified. We will conduct our operations in compliance with all applicable health, safety, and environmental laws and regulations per the GA EPD or USEPA. Conduct periodic assessment of our operations to insure compliance and reduce risk. Provide education and training regarding applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures to protect human health and achieve continuous improvement. II. The Augusta Filter Plant has been treating and supplying potable water to our customers for over 60 years providing quality water in a safe manner to our community and environment. Our Filter Plant treats an average of 28 MGD utilizing the conventional filtration process. This process involves the addition of Aluminum Sulfate to destabilize the small particles in the raw water supply. Once destabilized, the particles then slowly mix to form larger particles that are removed through settling. Following the settling process, the water is filtered through a coal and sand media that final polishes the water. Post treatment includes disinfectining with CHLORINE, addition of Fluorosilcic Acid for Fluoride, and the addition of a Orthophosphate to reduce the corrosion of piping. III. The worst case release scenario for Chlorine would be the failure of a presurized chlorine cylinder valve, and the sudden release of its contents (2000 lbs.) in 10 minutes. The distance would be 0. 9 miles as determined by the EPA's RMP*Comp. The alternative release scenario would be a valve sheared off releasing 2000 pounds of liquid chlorine in 15 minutes. The distance to the toxic end point would be 0.2 miles as determined by the EPA's RMP* Comp. IV. The Augusta Water Treatment Filter Plant has not had any reportable accidental releases of Chlorine (3ppm) in the last Five Years. V. Emergency Response Program Training & Preperation .Plant Emengency Response Plan .Emergency Response Team available 24 hours per day .Emergency Response Team trained in Hazardous Materials .Simulation drills conducted If a Release Occurs .Chlorine detector will sound alarm .Emergency Response Team can be activated .Emergency Response Equipment located in plant and Chlorine platform .Ability to immediately request off-site emergency mutual assistance from Police, Fire Department, and Augusta Em ergency Management |