CHAPTER 9 – NORTH WEST PROVINCE
Provincial Green Drop Score 50%
Provincial Best Performer
Tlokwe Local Municipality is the best performing municipality in North West Province: 97% Municipal Green Drop Score 100% improvement on 2009 Green Drop status 100% of plants in low risk position 92% Site Inspection Score 1 of one system Green Drop Certification status
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Introduction
Wastewater services delivery is performed by ten (10) Water Services Authorities in North West Province via an infrastructure network comprising of 35 wastewater collector and treatment systems.
A total flow of 144 Ml/day is received at the 35 treatment facilities, which has a collective hydraulic design capacity of 316 Ml/day (as ADWF). This means that 45.6% of the design capacity is taken up by the current operational flows, leaving a 54.4% to meet the future demand without creating new capacity. However, the findings of the Green Drop assessment suggest that a significant portion of surplus capacity might not be ‘readily available’, as result of inadequate maintenance and operational deficiencies at lower capacity municipalities.
MICRO SMALL MEDIUM LARGE SIZE SIZE SIZE SIZE MACRO SIZE Total 10-25 <0.5 0.5-2 2-10 >25 Mℓ/day Undetermined Mℓ/day Mℓ/day Mℓ/day Mℓ/day Mℓ/day No of WWTPs 0 6 21 3 4 1 35 Total Design Capacity 0 6.9 99.6 50.3 159 1 315.8 (Ml/day) Total Daily Inflows 0 0.8 55.0 24.4 63.6 18 143.8 (Ml/day) *ADWF = Average Dry Weather Flow
Provincial Green Drop Analysis
Analysis of the Green Drop assessments and site inspection results indicate that performance vary from excellent to unsatisfactory. A total of 100% municipalities were assessed during the 2010/11 Green Drop Certification.
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GREEN DROP COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS Performance Performance Category 2009 2010/11 trend Incentive-based indicators 8 10 Number of municipalities assessed (77.6%) (100%) ↑ Number of wastewater systems assessed 17 35 ↑
Average Green Drop score 33% 29% ↓ 5 6 Number of Green Drop scores ≥50% (29%) (17%) ↓ 12 29 Number of Green Drop scores <50% (71%) (83%) ↓ Number of Green Drop awards 0 1 ↑
Average Site Inspection Score N/A 45.3% N/A
PROVINCIAL GREEN DROP SCORE N/A 50% N/A N/A = Not applied ↑ = improvement, ↓= digress, →= no change
The 100% assessment coverage included a total of 35 wastewater systems for North West. This magnitude of coverage serves as affirmation of the increased awareness and renewed commitment by municipal management. Through the current Green Drop process, municipalities are renewing their operational baselines and reprioritise their plans with the primary objective of raising the current performance status in terms of municipal wastewater management. The incentive-based regulatory approach succeeds to act as a positive stimulus to facilitate improved performance and public accountability, whilst establishing essential systems and processes to sustain and measure gradual improvement.
Analysis of the results indicate that the majority of systems (83%) lies in the lower scoring bracket of <50%, indicating that wastewater performance is not on standard in the Province. The average GDC score decreased from 33 to 29%, showing an overall digress on average performance. The regulatory opinion is that performance of the Province as a whole is unsatisfactory, as reflected by the average Municipal Green Drop Score of 50%.
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When comparing 2010/11 Green Drop results with 2009, the following trends are observed: 18 more systems were assessed in 2010 (35) compared to 2009 (17) 1 systems achieved Green Drop Certification, indicating that one systems is considered ‘excellent’ (>90%) × 82.4% of assessed systems performed ‘very poor to critical’ in 2009 compared to 83% in 2010/11, of which 59% systems were in ‘critical performance’ state in 2009 compared to 66% in 2010/11.
Provincial Risk Analysis
The Green Drop requirements are used to assess the entire value chain involved in the delivery of municipal wastewater services, whilst the risk analyses focus on the treatment function specifically.
CUMULATIVE RISK COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS Performance Performance Category 2009 2010/11 trend Risk-based indicators Highest CRR 28 25 ↓ Average CRR 16.5 16.3 ↓ Lowest CRR 6 9 ↑ Average Design Rating (A) 1.7 1.5 ↓ Average Capacity Exceedance Rating (B) 3.7 4.0 ↑ Average Effluent Failure Rating (C) 7.0 7.5 ↑ Average Technical Skills Rating (D) 3.3 2.9 ↓ AVERAGE % DEVIATION FROM maximum- 78.4 79.4 CRR ↑ N/A = Not applied ↑ = digress, ↓=improvement, →= no change
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From the above table, it can be observed that the Province still finds itself in ‘high risk’ space with 79.4% CRRmax. However, a positive risk reduction is observed on provincial averages, such as the highest CRR that decreased from 28 to 25↓, leading to a reduced Provincial average CRR of 16.3 (↓). Unfortunately, the counter profile is also true where the lowest CRR plants of 6 have moved into a higher CRR of 9 (↑). The CRR analysis further points out that good effort has be made to address the technical skills component in the Province. However, the risk factors dealing with plant capacity and effluent quality still require significant effort to ensure positive turnaround.
The results indicate that (on average) the Province may be in the infancy of a positive turnaround of its risk profile, but that efforts need to be redoubled to gain momentum and ensure dedicated reduction in individual CRRs. Some plants are still sliding into higher risk positions and these have been placed under regulatory surveillance with the objective of ensuring improvement. As such, water resources and public health will suffer whilst the Province gears itself to close the gaps with urgency. These municipal treatment plants are clearly identified in this Chapter under “Regulatory Impression”.
The following trend bar-chart paints a hopeful picture for wastewater treatment in North West. Although most plants still reside in high and critical risk position, a determined movement OUT OF critical risk position towards high risk space is noted. The trend is encouraging. Whilst the number of plants in medium risk position remains constant (5), the movement of 8 plants out of ‘low risk’ space is disheartening. One must be mindful that the 2009 and 2011 profile differ in terms of Merafong municipality that moved to Gauteng Province.
Nevertheless, the early warnings are clear that some low risk plants are entering higher risk space and this trend need to be arrested. Experience has learnt that the cost and specialist resources are much higher to address critical risk scenario, compared to earlier interventions when detecting early warning signals of a plant moving into distress. An unusual strategy and turnaround plan would be required for Limpopo to recover from this atrocious state.
90 – 100% Critical risk WWTPs % Deviation = 70 - <90% High Risk WWTPs CRR/CRR(max) TREND 50-<70% Medium risk WWTPs <50% Low Risk WWTPs
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The following municipalities are in high- and critical risk positions in 2010/11 and placed under regulatory surveillance:
2011 Average Priority WSA Name WWTPs in high or critical risk space CRR/CRRmax % deviation 100% 1 Ventersdorp LM Ventersdorp 94% 2 Maquassi Hills LM Leeudoringstad, Wolmaranstad Delareyville, Lehurutshe-Welbedacht, Ottosdal, NgaraModiriMolema 91% 3 Sannieshof, Zeerust, Itsoseng, Mmabatho, Lichtenburg, DM Mafikeng, Atamelang, Coligny 83% 4 Kgetlengriver LM Koster, Swartruggens Dr. Ruth S Mompati 80% 5 Bloemhof, Schweizer-Reinecke, Vryburg, Christiana DM 78% 6 Madibeng LM Brits, Hartbeespoort, Letlhabile, Mothotlung Matlosana LM 78% 7 Klerksdorp, Orkney, Hartebeesfontein Rustenburg LM 65% 8 Boitekong, Lethabong Critical risk plants High risk plants
Conclusion
The Green Drop results for 2010-2011 indicated that municipal wastewater management in North West is not in a satisfactory state. The majority of wastewater systems reside in high risk state, compared to 2009. Furthermore, the average Green Drop score decreased from 33 to 29%. The Provincial Green Drop score of 50% indicate that decision making and resources to support turnaround plans, will be required to improve the situation. The positive message from the Green Drop results is that a definitive awareness momentum is building and all municipalities are on board with their performance portfolios. The 100% assessment coverage has resulted in a confirmed baseline, from where progress can now be monitored and regulatory surveillance can be effected.
One Green Drop Certificate is awarded in North West: Tlokwe Local Municipality
Performance Barometer
The following log scale indicates the various positions that municipalities hold with respect to their individual Municipal Green Drop Scores:
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Water Services Authority: Dr Ruth S Mompati District Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 21.9%
Schweizer Vryburg Bloemhof Christiana Performance Area Reinecke (WSP: Naledi LM) (WSP:LekwaTeemane) (WSP:LekwaTeemane) Systems (WSP:Mamusa LM) Process Control, Maintenance & 50 15 8 3 Management skills Monitoring Programme 0 0 0 0 Credibility of Sample Analyses 10 0 0 70 Submission of Results 0 0 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 5 20 0 0 Failure Response Management 0 25 25 0 Bylaws 40 40 40 30 Treatment & Collector Capacity 50 40 48 85 Asset Management 40 55 45 45 Bonus Scores 8.75 8.75 0 8.75 Penalties 0 0 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 21.3% (↑) 25.6% (↑) 16.8% (↑) 21.8% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) 6% 2% 2% 2% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 6.5 9 5.6 3.5 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity 91% 73% 85% 80% Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 18 18 18 15 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 78.3 % (↓) 78.3% (→) 78.3% (↑) 83.3% (↓) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
Dr Ruth S Mompati District Municipality is the responsible authority overseeing the operation of the wastewater systems by the WSPs (Naledi, Mamusa, LekwaTeemane, Greater Taung, Ratlou and Molopo municipalities). The District Municipality has performed unsatisfactory during the Green Drop assessments indicating that the wastewater services are not being managed according to the expectations of the regulation programme. The lack of monitoring is further proof of inefficient wastewater management, and this evidently poses a significant risk to the receiving environment.
The improvement trend from the 2009 Green Drop status (2-6%) to the current 16 - 25% is a positive development and the municipality are encouraged to continue along this gradual path of sustainable improvement. This positive trend is supported by a reduced risk profile for the Vryburg and Christiana treatment plant. Unfortunately, all plants still resides in high risk space. Notably, the plants are operating within its design capacity, indicating that non-compliance could be addressed via effluent quality monitoring, proper process control and an improved maintenance regime. The fact that the DM did not present evidence for the wastewater systems in Greater Taung, Molopo and Ratlou, does not instil confidence that these systems are operated in a sustainable manner. Management must address this shortcoming as a matter of priority and the regional water authority will action further steps to pursue this matter.
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Green Drop Findings: 1. Four out of 4wastewater treatment works could not provide evidence of monitoring or of submission of results to the provincial authority. This non-conformance is further compromised by the lack of scientific capacity and analytical credibility (except Christiana). 2. As result of the above transgression, the all plants are certified as non-compliant in terms of its final effluent quality. 3. Four out of 4 systems do not implement Bylaws, and failure response management have not been introduced as good practice within the DM. 4. Underlying above symptoms and evidence of poor performance, is possibly the lack of skilled staff and the necessary processes, procedures, resources and decision making systems to support staff in the execution of their duties.
The Regulator is not satisfied with the overall performance of wastewater services management in Dr Ruth S Mompati. The WSA is to submit a Corrective Action Plan to DWA within 30 days of release of the Green Drop Report.
Site Inspection Score Vryburg 31% SweizerReneke 26% Bloemhof 32% Christiana 40%
The Vryburg WWTP was inspected to verify the Green Drop findings: The plant appears unkept and unmaintained, scrap matter lying about, fences broken down, no gate control Inlet works in poor condition with limited screening and no grit removal taking place Flow meter functional but accuracy questionable Four out of 6 aerators functional, activated sludge shows adequate properties Adequate settling in secondary clarification tank Chlorination room door broken, cylinders empty, no disinfection taking place Poor quality effluent with high TSS content Drying beds in place but not optimally used, high sludge recycle rate evident.
The Schweizer Reinecke (26%) treatment plant was inspected to verify the Green Drop findings: The overall appearance is positive with recent construction of new buildings and structures No logbooks, manuals, protocol or monitoring equipment in place New screens functional, poor control, screening not removed and present health hazard Flow meter in place, but continuous logging of flows not done Grit removal not functional and grit accumulates in chambers and channels New activated sludge plant functional but no evidence of on site process control taking place Old clarifiers functional, new system still require installation of mechanical equipment Effluent quality is turbid with high suspended solids, plant could function optimal with proper process control No disinfection taking place, safety aspects not adhered to.
The following observations were made for the Christiana plant: The plant is under construction at time of inspection, and no manuals, protocols and other operational or maintenance records were in place Despite the new screens and flow meter being in place, no operations or recording was done The head of works appears unclean and unkept with little evidence of plant management New grit removal is not functional and mechanical equipment need contractor attention The new activated BNR plant is fully functional, but no operational records or evidence of operational parameters in place Good secondary clarification
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New disinfection house, but no chlorine stock, no disinfection taking place New sludge drying beds have been constructed and should be adequate for on-site sludge handling.
The Bloemhof plant inspection provided the following results: The terrain of the existing works is reasonably well maintained and new plant is under construction No operational or maintenance logbooks on site, no on site monitoring equipment Screens not well maintained, new plant grit and flow meter not functional as yet Pond system on existing plant littered with screenings Biofilters in poor condition, part of existing plant – Sequential Batch Reactor under construction at time of inspection No disinfection taking place Effluent flow meter in place, but no flow records taken Drying beds in place and well used, new plant has more sophisticated dewatering plant in place – higher maintenance requirements.
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Water Services Authority: Kgetleng River Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 9.3%
Performance Area Koster Swartruggens Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 8 10 Management skills Monitoring Programme 15 30 Credibility of Sample Analyses 10 25 Submission of Results 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 0 0 Failure Response Management 0 0 Bylaws 0 0 Treatment & Collector Capacity 78 35 Asset Management 0 0 Bonus Scores 0 0 Penalties 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 10.2% (↓) 8.7% (↓) Green Drop Score (2009) 11% 32% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 1 2 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 17 13 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 94.4% (→) 72.2% (↓) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Kgetleng River Local Municipality has performed unsatisfactory during the Green Drop assessments indicating that the wastewater services are not being managed according to the expectations of the regulation programme. The Green Drop requirements are largely not being met, resulting in an overall municipal score of 9.3%. An overall digress is observed when considering that both plants fared better in the 2009 assessments. The most prominent gaps are to be found in the lack of skilled maintenance and operational staff, as well management aspects as reflected in the planning, systems and procedures aspects. The lack in monitoring persist on almost all levels, ranging from plant operations and repairs logging to daily flow measurements to financial aspects. As result of the non-monitoring in effluent quality, both plants fail on the critical criterion of % compliance to national legislation, and thereby continue pose a significant risk to the receiving environment and public health.
From the 2010/11 Green Drop results, it is possible for the municipality to identify the key gaps in its water services delivery function and to address those in a risk-based approach. In terms of the municipality’s risk profile, both plants are still in high- and critical risk boundaries. This is substantiated by the low municipal score and technical inspection scores.
Green Drop Findings: 1. Two of the 2 wastewater treatment works does not monitor flow and are unable to measure if the plant capacity is still sufficient for the daily operational flow. 2. The continued functioning of these works is completely unsustainable, and in the absence of a skilled and resourced team, planning should revolve around robust basic technology which could deliver upon the required effluent quality standards.
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3. None of the 2 plants could present sufficient proof of monitoring records at appropriate levels, including operational, compliance and flow monitoring. Thus the finding of the no-monitoring transgression which is a significant risk. 4. Both plants has 0% compliance in terms of effluent quality compliance to legal standards. 5. Should any of the plants face a disaster or emergency situation, it would not be in a position to deal with such, as the protocol and procedures are not in place.
The Regulator is not satisfied with the overall performance of wastewater services management in Kgetleng River. The WSA is to submit a Corrective Action Plan to DWA within 30 days of release of the Green Drop Report.
Site Inspection Score Koster 0% Swartruggens 28%
The following observations were made for the Koster plant: The plants appeared abandoned, with the surroundings as well as some of the ponds covered with weeds and the site extremely disorderly and neglected During the time of inspection, sewage was not entering the plant because of the electrical cables that were stolen and as a result the untreated effluent flows directly into the Elands River There is not gate at the works and the fence is falling, making unauthorised access easy. Vandalism is a problem and security must be prioritized The screens are in poor condition, no flow meter is in place and the staff is unsure of the final effluent sampling point The 1st pond is running dry as result of the low sewage inflow, other ponds are sludged up and poor quality effluent is finding its way to the Elandsriver Department of Water Affairs has commenced with regulatory enforcement.
The Swartruggens condition is verified as follows: The plant seems to be maintained, with gate control and security in place as result of the construction that is currently being undertaken Screening is taking place, but no grit removal facility and no flow meter is in place The activated sludge plants appears to be functional although no process control records are evident Final effluent appears clear and liquid chlorine is dosed as means of disinfection There is insufficient contact time for the disinfectant to reach its full application value Sludge drying beds are filled with soil from construction work, and no sludge wastage is planned for the foreseen future. This compromises sludge handling at the plant and will impact negatively on the operation of the activated sludge plant.
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Water Services Authority: Madibeng Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 6.6%
Performance Area Brits Hartbeespoort Letlhabile Mothotlung Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 25 15 15 26 Management skills Monitoring Programme 0 0 0 0 Credibility of Sample Analyses 25 18 10 10 Submission of Results 0 0 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 0 0 0 0 Failure Response Management 0 0 0 0 Bylaws 14 14 14 14 Treatment & Collector Capacity 28 35 0 0 Asset Management 10 0 0 0 Bonus Scores 0 0 0 0 Penalties 0 0 0 0
Green Drop Score (2011) 8.7% (↑) 6.6% (↑) 2.7% (↑) 3.7%(↑)
Green Drop Score (2009) NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 14 5 6 2.4 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity 57% 36% 72% 42% Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 18 14 18 14 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 78.3% (↑) 77.8% (→) 78.3% (↑) 77.8% (→) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
At the time of the Green Drop assessment and site inspection, the Madibeng Local Municipality performed very poorly. The valiant efforts by the staff to provide sufficient portfolio of evidence are acknowledged. Unfortunately, the Madibeng systems continues to be high risk to public health and the environment, and any progress made since the municipality has been placed under administration, has not transpired into sufficient proof on the ground, or in management systems and processes that would support a sustainable turnaround. The Green Drop assessments and overall municipal score of 6.6% indicate that the wastewater services are not meeting to the expectations of the regulation programme. This is supported by the CRR profiles which show that all four treatment plants are in high risk space, with Brits and Letlhabile steadily moving into critical risk zone.
Whilst evidence of work at the pumpstations, as well as progress on the Brits treatment plant is noted, the necessary evidence could not be presented to verify these claims. Despite the committed efforts of the technical staff, the institutional arrangements and decisions are still not supporting a sustainable and practical turnaround in wastewater services in Madibeng at time of the assessments and inspections.
From the 2010/11 Green Drop results, it is possible for the municipality to identify the key gaps in its water services delivery function and to rectify those in a risk-based approach. If the municipality could apply focus and resources to these, it is possible for Madibeng to improve its Green Drop score in the GDC 2011/12 cycle. Unfortunately, at present time, the municipal services fall short of basic levels of
NORTH WEST Page 305 good practice and performance, and interventions need to be intensified. The municipal services continue to pose a high risk to public health, environmental safety in the region.
Green Drop Findings: 1. Four of the 4 wastewater systems do not have adequately technical registered staff to meet the basic requirements of Regulation 2834. The number of existing staff does not have the means and capacity to fulfil the duties involved in their day to day functions, which included water and wastewater management. 2. None of the 4 systems could show monitoring programmes, scientific services support, credible data or plans involving the rectification of this situation. This transgression is a high risk situation and marks a zero % compliance of all 4 treatment systems. 3. The absence of failure response management reflection the inability of the municipality to respond to emergency situations and events, such as pumpstation failures, electricity interruptions, spillages, etc. 4. None of the 4 plants could present adequate plans and design features that is considered to be viable turnaround plans to raise the short to long term performance of the collector and treatment systems. 5. Asset management principles, including basic financial management, are not evident in any of the 4 wastewater systems. Thus the finding that both collector and treatment systems are a major transgression which poses a significant risk to public health and the environment.
The Regulator is not satisfied with the overall performance of wastewater services management in Madibeng. The WSA is to submit a Corrective Action Plan to DWA within 30 of release of the Green Drop Report.
Site Inspection Score Brits 22%
The Brits WWTP was inspected to verify the Green Drop findings. The treatment works is situated close to a main road and is in an advanced state of dilapidation. The boundary fence is badly damaged due to vandalism and vehicle accidents. Scorched areas can be seen across the works and boundary fence. This type of ground maintenance could be ascribed to a lack of manpower and/or severe budgetary constraints. The administrative block is the only area that is being kept neat and tidy. Assessors were prevented from visiting the staff cloak and facilities. The chlorination station is in a very poor state and it is not in compliance with the safety regulation governing hazardous installations e.g. main door was broken and there is no sign of any gas leak detectors and/or a supporting alarm systems. Any chlorine gas leak from within this area will result in instant fatalities. The chlorine gas cylinders were empty at the time of assessment and no disinfection takes place given the poor quality of the effluent. The old inlet works was functional and the new inlet works was dysfunctional. However, the dysfunctionality of the system was not restricting the free flow of raw sewage in-feed and/or causing any raw sewage spillages around the inlet area. Flow meters are in place at both the inlet – and outlet channels, but functionality could not be verified as flow data could not be presented. Black final effluent discharged into the Accurate flows are compromised by the lack of flume-structuredCrocodile River measurement. The grit removal system was not working effectively and that large volumes of grit were gaining entry to the downstream process unit, as well as filling up the grit channel with sand. The new plant extensions have not been commissioned, and showed that the newly constructed PST was in a poor condition and blocked due to excessive accumulation of grit.
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The activated sludge process has completely collapsed and produced black septic sludge and the bad odour emanating from the aeration basin as well as the fact that 50% of the aerators are not functional. Operational monitoring records are being maintained by the Site Chemist despite the poor condition of the works. The Site Chemist is knowledgeable person with a detailed understanding of all the technical challenges facing treatment works. Management decisions on higher levels seem to hamper the effective operations and turnaround of the plants. The Plant is equipped with one single cold- stage digester which has been out of commission for three years. Four sludge A newly constructed sludge dewatering belt lagoons are in poor state and pose a significant risk depositionpress are . not functional and the relevant chemicals e.g. polyelectrolyte stock are depleted
A local newspaper publication confirming that R6.0 mil has been approved for the upgrade of the wastewater treatment works and the rehabilitation of the sludge lagoons that is filled with chrome contaminated sludge. It is reported that the inadequacy of sludge disposal facilities was the primary cause for the breakdown of the treatment process.
Regulatory viewpoint: “Funding alone - without informed decision making, viable systems, appropriate resources & a risk-based approach, will not solve the Madibeng problem sustainably in the long run”.
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Water Services Authority: Maquassi Hills Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 16.9%
Performance Area Leeudoringstad Wolmaranstad Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 5 28 Management skills Monitoring Programme 0 20 Credibility of Sample Analyses 0 35 Submission of Results 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 10 10 Failure Response Management 0 28 Bylaws 15 15 Treatment & Collector Capacity 0 15 Asset Management 0 0 Bonus Scores 40 40 Penalties 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 10.2% (↑) 20.5% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) NA – 0% NA – 0% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 2.45 4.5 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 17 17 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 94.4% (↑) 78.7% (↑) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Maquassi Hills Local Municipality has performed unsatisfactory during the Green Drop assessments indicating that the wastewater services are not being managed according to the expectations of the regulation programme. The Green Drop requirements are largely not met and result in a low overall municipal score for Maquassi Hills (16.9%). The municipality is however, to be commended for their preparedness to be assessed and to comprehend and address the identified gaps, as is forthcoming from the assessment reports.
The gaps reach across all assessment areas and not one factor alone can be emphasised. It is therefore the regulatory view that the wastewater services pose a significant risk to the receiving environment and public health, and that a concerted effort be applied to return to a basic level of operations and management on all accounts. No flow monitoring is available to inform plans or decisions regarding refurbishment, upgrades or water demand management projects.
A definitive negative trend is observed in terms of the predominant risk disposition of all plants in Maquassi Hills. Both treatment plants are moving from high risk into a critical risk space, with Leeudoringstad now moving towards a 100% risk score.
Green Drop Findings: 1. One out of 2 wastewater treatment works could not provide evidence of monitoring or of submission of results to the provincial authority. This non-conformance is further compromised by the lack of scientific capacity and analytical credibility. 2. Both plants are certified as non-compliant in terms of its final effluent quality.
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3. Incoming flows are not monitored for any of the plants. 4. The Maquassi Hills systems do not have sufficient Bylaws and implementation thereof in place, and failure response management protocol have not been introduced. 5. Underlying above symptoms and evidence of poor performance, is possibly the lack of skilled staff and the necessary processes, procedures and resources to support staff in the execution of their duties. 6. A lack of planning and asset management for all treatment and collector systems is escalating the problems to management level and lack of implementation of good practice.
The Regulator is not satisfied with the overall performance of wastewater services management in Maquassi Hills. The WSA is to submit a Corrective Action Plan to DWA within 30 days of release of the Green Drop Report.
Site Inspection Score Wolmaranstad 62%
The Wolmaranstad WWTP was inspected to verify the Green Drop findings. The findings verified the assessor’s impression that work on the ground is done, but higher management functionality compromises the green Drop status of the municipality. The following findings support this observation: The works is well kept, neat and the grass is trimmed. Rooms for workers to wash and eat are orderly and clean. Evidence of spillage has been noted around the anoxic and anaerobic tanks. It has been explained that this is due to overflow as the plant is operating above its design capacity. Logbooks, with completed and detailed entries, as well as manuals are in place. On-site chlorine test kits are available and used. Screens in place and well-maintained. Mechanical removal of screens available and operational. Screen removal into skip which is removed to land-fill site and the skip area is well-kept and tidy. Grit removal and flow monitoring are on standard and well recorded. Excessive scum in aeration basin, but all 4 aerators working in the activated sludge plant. One is purposely switched off to allow scum to accumulate at one end of tank for removal. SVI and other process control analysis done on-site and well recorded. Chlorine tanks housed in small ventilated container structure. Sufficient stock available and safety equipment available. Drying beds accessible and well maintained, however, sludge that has been scraped has not been adequately disposed of and remains in a heap next to the drying beds.
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Water Services Authority: Matlosana Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 51.7%
Hartbees Performance Area Klerksdorp Orkney Stilfontein
fontein Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 80 58 80 60 Management skills Monitoring Programme 70 65 85 65 Credibility of Sample Analyses 18 18 18 18 Submission of Results 50 75 75 75 Wastewater Quality Compliance 15 83 78 48 Failure Response Management 0 14 14 25 Bylaws 100 100 100 100 Treatment & Collector Capacity 18 0 15 6 Asset Management 43 40 38 25 Bonus Scores 40 65 65 65 Penalties 0 0 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 42.1% (↑) 60.6% (↑) 64.5% (↑) 53.1% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 36 20 12.3 4.5 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 25 21 16 20 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 89.3% (↑) 75.0% (↓) 69.6% (↓) 77.8% (↓) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Matlosana Local Municipality exceeded the average performance of its municipal peers in the North West Province. If not for the unsatisfactory performance of the Klerksdorp and Hartbeesfontein systems, the municipality’s rating may have approached a satisfactory overall performance. Unfortunately, the 51.7% overall municipal score indicated that certain areas still need to be address to bring wastewater services up to standard good practice and in line with the expectations of the regulation programme.
The Green Drop requirements are largely met for Orkney and Stilfontein, with the exception of credibility of results, lack of incident protocol management, lack of asset management and collector/treatment facilities capacity planning. Klerksfontein and Hartbeesfontein have the same gaps plus their poor compliance history result in substandard GDC scores.
The municipality has many attributes that are encouraging and should result in a significantly improved score in the upcoming green Drop assessment cycle. The bonus scores earned are evident of the training initiatives taking place, and the dedicated team that is in place on the ground.
The municipality is commended for taking the first step to present their results for assessment. For this reason, the improvement (↑) is acknowledged whereby the previous 0% (no assessment) is lifted to 42- 64% scoring range for 2010/11. In addition, all treatments plants show a reduced risk profile, with the
NORTH WEST Page 310 exception of Klerksdorp. Unfortunately, 3 plants still remain within high risk boundaries, which would required a risk-based approach to rectify these areas in a phased, time-based approach.
Green Drop Findings: 1. Four out of 4 wastewater treatment plants had low scores for the credibility of their analytical results with regard to compliance, environmental and process monitoring. 2. None of the 5 systems had sufficient evidence in terms of failure response management. 3. Insufficient evidence for all systems was presented regarding wastewater collector and treatment infrastructure flow monitoring, planning and capacity. 4. Two out of 4 treatment plants showed low compliance when compared to the authorised discharge quality and licensing conditions. 5. The absence of a risk-based approach and adoption of integrated asset management principles result in infrastructure not being valued and maintained to extend it useful life – especially when taking into consideration that new infrastructure are currently being developed that require preventative maintenance.
Site Inspection Score Klerksdorp 48%
The Klerksdorp (48%) WWTP inspection verified the Green Drop score of 42%: Plant appears well maintained, lawns were mowed and surroundings neat and tidy. Poor disposal / lack of disposal of dried sludge, which has been stored at one end of the works On site laboratory where other plants samples are analysed Fence and gate control in place, logbooks could not be viewed Screening and degritting functional, flow meters not operational for 2 years Settling tanks in good condition, 6 of 8 aerators function on activated sludge plant Inefficient chlorine dosing, operational improvement needed Sludge handling is problematic and need attention.
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Water Services Authority: Moses Kotana Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 29.9%
Performance Area Mogwase Madikwe Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 65 0 Management skills Monitoring Programme 100 0 Credibility of Sample Analyses 40 0 Submission of Results 50 50 Wastewater Quality Compliance 5 20 Failure Response Management 23 23 Bylaws 40 40 Treatment & Collector Capacity 40 18 Asset Management 43 10 Bonus Scores 0 0 Penalties 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 35.1% (↓) 16.0% (↓) Green Drop Score (2009) 70% 51% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 4 NI Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 9 10 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 50.0% (↑) 55.6% (→) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Moses Kotana Local Municipality has performed unsatisfactory during the Green Drop assessments indicating that the wastewater services are not being managed according to the expectations of the regulation programme. The markedly reduced Green Drop scores for 2010/11 is a disappointing digress from the 51-70% status. This deviation indicates that legislative conformance and good practice are largely slipping and an overall municipal score of 29.9% attest to such statements. The underlying cause for this deteriorated status need to be identified and rectified without delay and hesitation.
A significant gap is noticed between the low Green Drop assessment score and the excellent site inspection score (93%). The municipal team that attended to the assessment was unprepared and did not honour the meeting arrangements. However, a number of documents were later submitted to motivate for higher GDS scores, which indicate an encouraging team commitment to improve the status quo. The photographic evidence received provided evidence that good work is taking place on the ground, but that management practices may need improvement. The Regulatory is positive that a marked increase in Green Drop score will be achieved with the upcoming assessment, should the municipality prepare adequately for the assessment.
At present, however, a negative trend is observed in both the Green Drop results and the higher risk position of the Mogwasse plant. A concerted effort need to be applied to return to good practice level of operations and management on all accounts.
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Green Drop Findings: 1. One out of 2 wastewater treatment works could not provide evidence of monitoring or of submission of results to the provincial authority. This non-conformance is further compromised by the lack of scientific capacity and analytical credibility. 2. Both plants are certified as non-compliant in terms of its final effluent quality. 3. The Moses Kotana systems do not have Bylaw implementation in place, and failure response management have not been introduced. 4. Underlying above symptoms and evidence of poor performance, is the lack of skilled staff and the necessary processes, procedures and resources to support staff in the execution of their duties. This is evident in one of the 2 facilities assessed. 5. A lack of planning and asset management for all treatment and collector systems is escalating the problems to management level and lack of implementation of good practice. This transgression includes the availability of flow data to monitor the incoming flow to both of the treatment facilities.
Site Inspection Score Mogwase 93%
The Mogwase WWTW was inspected to inform the standpoint taken by the Regulator. It is clear the staff prioritises field work, given the excellent score of the technical inspection. Clearly, the administrative, planning and budgetary requirements that forms an essential part of the entire wastewater business, are not on par with the progressive work taking place on the ground.
For the Magwase plant, the following observations were made: The Class C registration is in place and well displayed All O&M manuals, logbooks and on-site analytical equipment is on site and used on a daily basis The terrain is clean and the workers facilities are neat, the plant is fenced in with security control. Work place attitude seems to be satisfactory The manuals screens are functional and cleaned daily, good grit removal is taking place An inflow and final effluent meter is in place and flow logged daily. (This finding is contradictory to the “no information’ presented during the assessment process) The activated sludge plant is functional and well operated with operational log sheets in place Chlorination takes place with a good 2 hour contact time, supported by an accessible sample position Sludge drying beds are well maintained, used and free of odour and insects.
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Water Services Authority: Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 28.4%
MMabatho Lehurutshe Zeerust Mafikeng Performance Area (WSP: Mafikeng (WSP:RamoshereMoilwa (WSP:RamoshereMoilwa (WSP: Mafikeng LM)
Systems LM) LM) LM) Process Control, Maintenance & 35 85 0 23 Management skills Monitoring Programme 65 65 0 25 Credibility of Sample Analyses 25 25 10 42 Submission of Results 75 75 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 0 0 10 10 Failure Response Management 14 14 0 0 Bylaws 0 0 30 60 Treatment & Collector Capacity 50 35 20 40 Asset Management 67.5 65 45 38 Bonus Scores 17.5 17.5 17.5 8.75 Penalties 0 0 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 29.1% (↑) 35.2% (↑) 11.1% (↑) 23.8% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) 10% 10% 3% 3% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 6 24 1.5 3.5 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity 72% 68% NI (assume > 100%) NI (assume > 100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 17 21 18 18 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 73.9% (↓) 75.0% (↑) 100% (↑) 100% (↑)
Coligny Itsoseng Atamelang Lichtenburg Performance Area (WSP:Ditsobotla (WSP:Ditsobotla LM) (WSP:Tswaing LM) (WSP:Ditsobotla LM)
Systems LM) Process Control, Maintenance & 20 0 20 20 Management skills Monitoring Programme 0 0 50 0 Credibility of Sample Analyses 24 0 49 34 Submission of Results 0 0 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 0 0 0 0 Failure Response Management 0 0 28 0 Bylaws 0 40 40 40 Treatment & Collector Capacity 85 78 85 70 Asset Management 30 30 30 30 Bonus Scores 17.5 57.5 57.5 57.5 Penalties 0 0 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 16.8% (↑) 24.9% (↑) 33.8% (↑) 25.8% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 1 NI 7 36 NI (assume > NI (assume >100%) Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume > 100%) 137% 100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 15 15 20 17 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 83.3% (→) 83.3% (↓) 87.0% (↑) 94.4% (↓)
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Delareyville Ottosdal Sannieshof Performance Area
(WSP:Tswaing LM) (WSP:Tswaing LM) (WSP:Tswaing LM) Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 8 0 0 Management skills Monitoring Programme 0 0 0 Credibility of Sample Analyses 34 34 34 Submission of Results 0 0 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 0 0 0 Failure Response Management 0 0 0 Bylaws 0 0 0 Treatment & Collector Capacity 63 40 85 Asset Management 30 30 30 Bonus Scores 17.5 17.5 17.5 Penalties 0 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 15.8% (↑) 12.8% (↑) 17.3% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) NA – 0% NA – 0% NA – 0% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 4 5 1.2 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) NI (assume >100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 18 18 18 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 100% (→) 100% (↑) 100% (→) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Ngaka Modiri Molema Local Municipality has performed unsatisfactory during the Green Drop assessments, indicating that the wastewater services are not being managed according to the expectations of the regulation programme. The Green Drop requirements are largely not met and result in a low overall municipal score for Ngaka Modiri Molema (28.4%). It is however, encouraging that the municipal team submitted a portfolio of evidence for assessment, as this provides a meaningful and updated baseline for gap identification and prioritisation.
The gaps in the current performance reach almost across all aspects that would normally define a properly managed wastewater service. The only area of encouragement is the recent work related to infrastructure assessments that allow for some technical and budgetary planning to be done. The remainder areas that constitute basic- and essential level wastewater services management are lacking. The underlying the low performance would include the low technical- and managerial skills base and the lack in monitoring – which would compromise any further work that the municipality may wish to take to inform appropriate decisions towards a turnaround scenario within the WSA. For example, critical aspects of future plans may be rendered invalidate in the face of the lack of flow data and raw- to final wastewater quality. All aforementioned aspects will have to be raised from its current ‘critical state’ to an essential (basic) level of operations before the municipality would be in a position to move forward.
The situation in Ngaka Modiri Molema is considered critical from a regulatory view and holds high risk to public health and the environment. The risk profiles of all plants deteriorated with all 11 plants now in high to critical risk space. Five of the plants are in maximum 100% risk space which dictates that all essential systems had effectively collapsed and extensive resources and appropriate decisions will be required to lift the municipality from this detrimental state. The remainder of the 6 high risk plants may follow suit if rapid and firm intervention cannot be secured. These findings demand the attention of municipal management and political principles.
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Green Drop Findings: 1. Ten of the11 wastewater treatment plants do not have appropriate managerial or technical skills in place to conduct wastewater services management, operation and maintenance. 2. Eleven of 11 plants do not meet effluent quality standards, which is underscored by the lack of monitoring in 7 of the 11 plants. 3. The absence of flow monitoring at the majority of the plants compounds the problems, as the contamination load to the receiving natural environment cannot be measured or addressed. 4. None of the 11 systems have adequate bylaw implementation in place, thereby compounding the negative impacts from extraneous flows (e.g. stormwater to sewer, industrial effluent, vacuum tankers, illegal connections). Revenue enhancement would not be possible under the lacking local regulation conditions. 5. None of the systems had failure response management protocol in place to deal with emergency or disaster situations, should they occur. 6. Lastly, the absence of a risk-based approach and adoption of integrated asset management principles, result in infrastructure not being valued and maintained to extend it useful lifespan. This is bound to place an additional burden on the municipal budget when premature replacements will have to be done to ensure an acceptable service level. The Regulator is not satisfied with the overall performance of wastewater services management in NgakaModiriMolema. The WSA is to submit a Corrective Action Plan to DWA within 30 days of release of the Green Drop Report.
Site Inspection Scores Sannieshof 21%, Lichtenburg 47% Zeerust 56%
The following findings for have referent to the Sannieshof plant: No plant personnel, any records or monitoring equipment are in place The plant appears neglected and deserted. Screening facility is functional, no flow monitoring Anaerobic dam is bypassed as it has reached its full capacity and presents a hazard to the environment. Equipment silted up. No disinfection, plant designed for irrigation of final effluent, but never implemented Appointments made for construction work and monitoring
The following observations were made for Lichtenburg: The plant appearance is that of a low budget maintenance plan, but efforts made to keep clean and tidy. Toilet facilities not functional. Security on site Laboratory equipment stolen in 2002 and not replaced Operational records in place, but no other documentation Plant under construction Screening, degritting and flow metering taking place Activated sludge plant operational, limited operational parameters, good clarification No disinfection taking place Sludge lagoons poorly managed, high risk for environmental pollution
The following findings are evident for the Zeerust plant: The plant is reasonably well maintained, fenced and with locked gate Staff is satisfied with working conditions No records or data or manual kept on site, but presented during assessment Screening and grit removal functional and disposed off at dedicated point on site Good settling in primary and secondary tanks. Abattoir effluent hampers optimal process efficiency Disinfection records not available for inspection
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No flow measurement is one of many fundamental operational aspects not in place.
Bylaw enforcement is required to negate the negative impact of abattoir waste on final effluent quality. This is an unacceptable practice on both the parts of the municipality and the relevant abattoir Inadequate sludge managment industry
The lack of a functional Laboratory underlies many of the problems experienced in the municipality. The photo shows that basic equipment is in place, but not used to inform process control or performance monitoring
Evidence of final effluent channels which has not be cleaned for some time. The high solids and floating fats and oils will nullify any attempt at disinfection.
These are basic operational functions that would reward with quick win improvement - should the necessary management action be taken.
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Water Services Authority: Rustenburg Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 75.6%
Performance Area Rustenburg Boitekong Lethabong Monakato Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 100 90 60 60 Management skills Monitoring Programme 100 100 100 85 Credibility of Sample Analyses 85 85 85 85 Submission of Results 75 75 75 75 Wastewater Quality Compliance 60 60 20 15 Failure Response Management 71 16 16 16 Bylaws 40 40 40 40 Treatment & Collector Capacity 100 93 85 85 Asset Management 47.5 43 18 28 Bonus Scores 65 52.5 22.5 10 Penalties 0 0 0 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 78.7% (↑) 69.5% (↑) 48.1% (↑) 44.8% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) 74% 41% 30% 30% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 42 8 2 0.9 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity 75% 109% 25% 89% Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 15 17 13 11 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 26.8% (↑) 37.0% (↑) 48.15% (↑) 40.74% (↑) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Rustenburg Local Municipality has performed unsatisfactory for two of the four wastewater systems with GDC scores in the order of 44-55%, whilst the Rustenburg and Boitekong plants performed fairly well (69-79%). It is encouraging to observe the marked and consistent improvement in Green Drop status for ALL systems over the past 1.5 years. It was disconcerting however, to note that the bulk of commitment and evidence during the assessment process, were forthcoming from the water services provider and contracted management entity that have been put in place to oversee the implement of the WSA/WSP arrangement. The WSP team was well prepared and committed, whereas the Rustenburg municipal team appeared indifferent and over-reliant on the WSP to present the portfolio of evidence.
The inadequacy of management systems to ensure sustainable and accountable sanitation service delivery is evident when considering the lack of municipal bylaws implementation, absence of basic capacity and financial information related to sewage collection and pumpstations, as well as asset management practice. This aspect would result in a possible future scenario situation whereby Green Drop status may be remain unaccomplished, unless the municipality takes a determined mindset and action to own and drive quality services delivery from within the organisation.
A positive trend is observed in terms of the improved Green Drop scores. However, when considering the risk position of the treatment plants itself, a increase trend in risks position is noted for all 4 treatment plants. Two of the 4 plants reside in the distress of high risk space.
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Green Drop Findings: 1. Four out of 4wastewater systems do not have updated bylaws and bylaw implementation in place. 2. None of the 4 systems have adequate failure response management protocol in place. 3. Wastewater treatment capacity and plan are in place, however, the collection systems lacks the same details for all 4 systems. 4. Submission of results, including GDS, as well as final effluent compliance is not being met for all treatment plants. 5. Lastly, the absence of a risk-based approach and adoption of integrated asset management principles, carries a risky consequence whereby municipal infrastructure are not optimally valued and maintained to support its full lifespan use. This is bound to place an additional burden on the municipal budget when premature replacements may have to be executed to ensure an acceptable service level.
Site Inspection Score Boitekong77%
The Boitekong WWTP was inspected to verify the Green Drop findings: Plant classification certificate not displayed, some manuals not on site at time of inspection The terrain is well kept, garden is neat, lawn cut, paint work fresh on both equipment and buildings (exception of some handrails) Entrance signage in place, well displayed, fences good condition Dedicated spaces to wash, sanitary facilities for men and ladies separate, process control offices combined On-site monitoring equipment with on-site lab On-site monitoring equipment in place, staff has good knowledge of use Screening, grit removal and flow metering well operated and logged. Activated sludge plant well operated, good sludge age maintained, good clarification and flow distribution on secondary clarifiers Chlorination and final sampling point adequate. Interviews with 3 site personnel showed a high workplace satisfaction and opinion that the plant has improved markedly from the introduction of a WSA/WSP arrangement.
Good characteric activated sludge Good clarification and final effluent overflow
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Water Services Authority: Tlokwe Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 97.0%
Potchefstroom
Performance Area Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 100 Management skills Monitoring Programme 91 Credibility of Sample Analyses 91 Submission of Results 75 Wastewater Quality Compliance 100 Failure Response Management 100 Bylaws 100 Treatment & Collector Capacity 85 Asset Management 96 Bonus Scores 35 Penalties 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 97.0% (↑) Green Drop Score (2009) 78% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 45 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity 71% Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 10 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 35.7% (↓) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Tlokwe Local Municipality has performed excellently during the Green Drop assessments and managed to raise their previous Green Drop status with premeditated and meticulous planning, implementation and preparation, in order to meet the expectations of the regulation programme. The Green Drop requirements are largely met, although room for further improvement can be noted from the areas where <95% or NI has been scored or noted. The risk-based approach and internal mentoring programme has earned the municipality bonus score, in line with the incentive based regulation programme. The municipal leadership are to be commended for firm decision taking regarding the retention and building of technical expertise, networking in the sector and effective governance/administration interface and team work. A close cooperation between political leaders and administrative technical professionals are possibly one of the keys of success within the municipal environment.
The Green Drop Certification of the City of Tlokwe is considered a milestone for the Province and serves as reminder that excellence can be accomplished in North West. In verification of the Green Drop Status, the risks profile for the Potchefstroom treatment plant shows a low risk position, whereby the
CRR decrease from 10 to 5.9 in implementing a Wastewater Risk Abatement Plan (W2RAP).
TLOKWE IS A GREEN DROP CERTIFIED CITY
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Site Inspection Score Potchefstroom 92%
The Potchefstroom WWTW was inspected to verify the Green Drop assessment findings: Class A plant classification and all staff registration status displayed in lab/office building All relevant manuals, logsheets, flow/quality data and failure response management protocol available on site Plant well maintained and buildings painted Gardens, lawns and safety signs could be improved Positive staff attitude, hands-on technical and scientific managers, pleasant and constructive workplace environment Screening, grit removal, bin emptying, flow metering, calibration of meter in place Primary and secondary settling tanks shows good flow distribution, good settling takes place Biofilters and activated sludge plant well operated and equipment well maintained Chlorination well controlled with proper sampling point and contact time Anaerobic digestion 3 out of 4 functional, one structure collapsed Regulatory visits from schools and other educational facilities to plant.
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Water Services Authority: Ventersdorp Local Municipality
Municipal Green Drop Score: 3.0%
Performance Area Ventersdorp Systems Process Control, Maintenance & 30 Management skills Monitoring Programme 0 Credibility of Sample Analyses 0 Submission of Results 0 Wastewater Quality Compliance 0 Failure Response Management 0 Bylaws 0 Treatment & Collector Capacity 0 Asset Management 0 Bonus Scores 0 Penalties 0 Green Drop Score (2011) 3% (↓) Green Drop Score (2009) 6% Treatment Capacity (Ml/d) 2 Operational % i.t.o. Capacity NI (assume > 100%) Cumulative Risk Rating (CRR) 18 % i.t.o. Maximum Risk Rating 100% (↑) NI - No information NA- Not assessed
Regulatory Impression
The Ventersdorp Local Municipality has performed poorly during the Green Drop assessments indicating that the wastewater services are not being managed according to the expectations of the regulation programme. This is evident by the 3% municipal score and the range of 0% against 8 of the 9 Green drop criteria. It is disconcerting to note that the WSA did not attend to the gaps that were already identified in the 2009 assessments, where by the municipality obtained a 6% GDC rating. It is further noted that the municipality has now digress into a critical risk space of 100% of CRRmax reached since the 2009 risk assessment.
The Green Drop assessment team observations are noted, whereby: “...the municipality was totally unprepared despite various notifications...; the WSA shows limited interest in- and knowledge of their wastewater business...”.The Regulator finds this situation and continued digress unacceptable, in light of the considerable risk that this status holds towards public health and the environment. Municipal management, political principles and sector actors need to prioritise Ventersdorp’s situation without delay or excuse.
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Green Drop Findings: 1. Not one of the Green Drop criteria or requirements was met during the assessment. - reference is made to the 9 criteria listed above against which indicated the extend of the gaps that Ventersdorp need to address. 2. 100% of all collection and treatment systems related aspects do not conform to their legal compliance or to standard norms and good practice. All aspects need to be addressed in a systematic, risk-based fashion to firstly achieve a minimal (basic) level of functionality, before moving wastewater business towards a more sustainable future.
The Regulator is not satisfied with the overall performance of wastewater services management in Ventersdorp. The WSA is to submit a Corrective Action Plan to DWA within 30 days of release of the Green Drop Report.
Site Inspection Score
Ventersdorp 26%
The following observations are consistent with the findings of the assessors: No certification, manuals or logbooks available on site Buildings are unhygienic and poorly maintained, terrain are reasonably maintained, need grass cutting Wash/eat area used fro stroage, control panel used as eating facility Raw sewage overflow from manhole at inlet works – workers cleaning up spillage has no protective clothes or equipment Manual screening in place, no flow metering Grit removal not functional, overflow of raw sewage to the environment One of 2 primary settling tanks collpased, no scraping, sludge build up in central chamber One of 2 biofilters under refurbishment and other in fair condition but not receiving flow due to blocked manhole at inlet works Humus dams turned green, no flow, seems like these have been out of commission for a long time, whilst sewage diversion to environment No chlorination or disinfectant stock available Six ponds in series, no access control – used by residents as solid waste disposal site No responsible care to sludge handling – wet sludge disposed off on-site.
Deneysville plant hampered by uncontrolled access, vandalism and theft
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