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RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIES
SAFEGUARDING THE FUTURE:
CONTAINING POLLUTED WASTEWATER IN INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES AND SPILLS
Fibox’s polycarbonate ARCA IEC Electrical Enclosure Cabinet has been used to house the actuator and mobile phone transmitter for ToggleBlok Valve, a
solar powered water pollution containment device
I
ndustrial manufacturing processes inevitably produce wastewater that, if not properly
managed, can lead to significant environmental damage. Contaminated wastewater from industrial processes or from accidental spills can pollute local waterways, disrupt ecosystems, and pose severe risks to public health. Therefore, it is essential for industrial manufacturers to adopt critical measures to prevent, contain, and control polluted wastewater, mitigating risks, avoiding substantial fines, and protecting their business reputation. Polluted wastewater often contains hazardous
substances, including heavy metals, organic pollutants, and toxic chemicals. When released into the environment, these contaminants can severely impact water quality, harming aquatic life and disrupting ecosystems. Polluted water can also infiltrate soil and groundwater, posing long-term health risks to human populations. Furthermore, the presence of hazardous substances can lead to bioaccumulation in the food chain, affecting both wildlife and humans. In the UK, stringent regulations are in place, such as the Environment Act 2021 which provides strong powers for regulators to tackle pollution and to hold water companies and polluters to account. Non-compliance with UK regulations can result in substantial fines, legal action, and mandatory remediation efforts. Beyond the immediate financial costs, companies may also face increased insurance premiums, operational disruptions, and long-term reputational damage, making it imperative to adopt robust wastewater management practices.
MITIGATING RISKS Conducting thorough risk assessments is the cornerstone of effective wastewater management. This involves identifying sources of contamination, evaluating the likelihood and impact of potential releases, and understanding the pathways through which pollutants could reach the environment. Based on this assessment, companies can develop tailored strategies to mitigate identified risks. Installing spill containment systems, such as secondary containment around storage tanks and industrial processes, can prevent accidental
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releases of contaminated water. These systems are designed to capture and contain spills, allowing for safe recovery and treatment of the wastewater. Automated monitoring systems can detect leaks or spills early, triggering immediate containment measures. Many secondary containment systems are fitted with devices to regulate the flow of non- polluted water. These have generically been termed ‘Penstock Valves’. However, they cannot be termed true Pollution Containment Devices as they are designed to act slowly, to reduce flow but not to stop it. In the emergency situation where it is imperative for the valve to quickly and completely stop polluted water from flowing, they have proved ineffective. However, the pioneering
The ToggleBlok Valve is designed to quickly and efficiently stop the flow of pollutant materials within a drain or duct in the event of a spill, fire or flood
engineering company Sandfield Penstock Solutions have designed and produce a true Pollution Containment Device, ‘ToggleBlok’. Their mission, according to the MD Carl Tebbett is to: “Eliminate all pollution from industrial spills and fires by listening to our customers and supporting them to exceed their environmental expectations.” A tall order, but one that many customers will attest to.
THE TOGGLEBLOK VALVE The ToggleBlok Valve is a purpose designed water pollution containment device which is solar powered, connected to the GSM network for remote and automated activation, and modular in design to fit into existing drainage systems and infrastructure with a minimum of cost and disruption. The valve is designed to quickly and efficiently stop the flow of pollutant materials within a drain or duct in the event of a spill, fire or flood. In the event of a pollution event the ToggleBlok system seals site watertight within 10 seconds of activation of the pollution containment devices, which remain fully locked even if the control panel is destroyed by fire. The ToggleBlok water pollution containment
devices can be triggered remotely from a control centre or mobile phone, more locally with a control panel or automatically by connecting the valves to other devices on the GSM network
including fire alarms, environmental monitors, gate sensors, flood sensors, pressure washers and emergency lighting systems. ToggleBlok is designed to meet CIRIA736 Section
3.8 ‘system reliability’. The system is further enhanced by the use of a Fibox polycarbonate ARCA IEC Electrical Enclosure Cabinet to house the vital actuator and mobile phone transmitter. ARCA IEC is sealed to IP66, has an impact
strength of IK10 and may be wall mounted or pole mounted. This combination leverages the strengths of both Sandfield Penstock’s engineering prowess and Fibox superior protective solutions to offer unparalleled benefits in terms of safety, reliability, and operational efficiency, even in the face of the harshest weather conditions.
Fibox T: 01642 604400
www.fibox.com
sales@fibox.com
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ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Autumn 2024 15
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