EPA Handbook for Management of Onsite and Clustered (Decentralized) Wastewater Treatment Systems
This Management Handbook (pdf) offers guidance on how to plan and implement a successful management program. Chapter 1 gives background information on the Management Handbook and describes the current status of wastewater treatment system management. Chapter 2 explains the five model management programs, and chapter 3 describes the essential elements of a management program. Chapter 4 provides guidance on planning and implementing a management program, from identifying key problem areas and assessing management needs through planning for implementation.
The program elements for managing decentralized treatment systems are listed below. As you can see, EPA's management handbook also includes siting, construction, and performance standards that go over and above the "management" approach (i.e., maintenance and inspections) that is being advocated by this tool kit. Nonetheless, the activities associated with each program element should be based on local resources and capabilities, and should always address public health needs and environmental protection requirements. Under the approach discussed in this handbook, local communities are encouraged to find the appropriate mix of activities required within each program element to meet their health and environmental goals. Tools to aid this process can be found in this handbook and obtained through the organizations listed in the Resources section.
Elements of a Decentralized Wastewater Management Program
- Public education and participation to communicate risks and develop appropriate responses.
- Planning based on cumulative and other impacts on human health and water resources.
- Performance requirements to ensure appropriate system design and technology selection.
- Site evaluation and wastewater characterization to guide system sizing and design.
- Designs that consider site conditions, cumulative loadings, and performance requirements.
- Construction practices that ensure compliance with design, siting, and performance criteria.
- Operation and maintenance functions that focus on performance and minimize risk.
- Residuals management programs that protect health and water resources.
- Training and certification/licensing of regulators and all service providers.
- Inspections and monitoring to assess and document performance and initiate remediation.
- Corrective actions and enforcement to ensure compliance and address failing/failed systems.
- Record keeping, inventory, and reporting to support planning, management, and oversight.
- Financial assistance and funding to support installation, repair, and overall management.