+1 (440) 237-4600
Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2013 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.
A proper oil skimming system can help you meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements.
Since the government created the Federal Water Pollution Control Act in 1948, U.S. businesses have come to view environmental responsibility as a duty that goes beyond regulatory compliance. Today, companies that discharge wastewater into public systems also need to consider their brand and image, the increasing cost of waste management, and the potential of stiff legal and punitive fees.
How can companies meet regulatory requirements for discharging wastewater while also protecting their reputations and profits?
If your wastewater contains any type of oil or grease residue, a relatively low-cost investment in an oil skimming system can deliver these three benefits.
1. Build an Eco-Friendly Brand and Image
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act evolved into what we now call the Clean Water Act (CWA). The CWA sets wastewater standards and water quality standards, and prevents anyone from discharging pollutants into waters unless they have obtained a permit. The EPA regulates these permits through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Not only does failure to comply with these regulations bring negative publicity, but going beyond basic compliance can help to build a reputation of environmental responsibility. Oil skimmers are extremely effective at removing residual oil and grease and can work 24/7 without operator input.
At Oil Skimmers, Inc., we make the Model 1H, Model 5H, Model 6V and Model 7V tube skimmers. Their sturdy design provides a rugged, reliable solution, and users report immediate improvement to their wastewater treatment process, and EPA compliance upon installation.
2. Reduce Waste Management Costs
The central objective of the CWA is to "restore and maintain the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters." As we've learned more about the long-term damage industrial waste can cause if improperly released, regulatory groups at all levels of government have tightened restrictions. This better protects humans and their habitat, but it also increases the cost of disposal.
Finding ways to reduce and control these costs is imperative for the more than 400,000 facilities required to have NPDES permits, including municipal water and industrial storm water systems, industries and commercial facilities, and concentrated animal-feeding operations. Using an oil skimmer before further treating wastewater can:
- Decrease the amount of chemicals required
- Extend the life of machinery and filters
- Reduce ongoing labor costs associated with repair and maintenance
- Reduce waste-removal costs
- Provide an additional revenue source via oil recyclers that sell used oil to secondary markets
3. Avoid Legal and Punitive Costs
If a facility with wastewater discharge doesn't meet the required effluent levels set forth within the NPDES permit, the EPA can bring "civil, judicial, and administrative actions" against violators. The EPA also seeks considerable monetary penalties that are meant to "promote environmental compliance and help protect health by deterring future violations."
The conclusion here is simple: Skim oil. Save face. Save money. Make money.
Uncover the Additional Business Benefits of Oil Skimming
Oil skimming systems have proven successful in cultivating improved manufacturing processes, and ultimately, an advanced finished product. See how oil skimming can impact your business and read about the top business benefits of removing oil from water.
