FP McCann instructed Burke Environmental to design and deliver a state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant at FP McCann’s headquarters in Knockloughrim, County Derry. This project aimed to upgrade the existing wastewater management system with a sustainable, high-performance solution that aligns with FP McCann’s environmental values and commitment to operational excellence.
Background
FP McCann, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading precast concrete manufacturers, identified the need to modernise their wastewater management system at their Knockloughrim site. The existing system required improvement to meet updated environmental regulations and the increased demands of a growing workforce. Due to a new office block being constructed, FP McCann’s workforce at their precast facility in Knockloughrim is set to increase to approximately 250, necessitating a sewage treatment system capable of catering to this expanded capacity. Burke Environmental was brought in to oversee the installation, leveraging their expertise in ecological and environmental solutions.
FP McCann’s precast yard is divided into three sections:
- The main office and reception building, where the existing sewage treatment tank is located to the rear.
- The factory workshop, where the canteen and toilets for workers are located. At this location, there is an old holding chamber that has to be desludged fairly often.
- The new office block at the front, which is currently under construction.
Project Objectives
- Upgrade Infrastructure: Replace the outdated system with a modern, efficient sewage treatment plant that meets regulatory requirements.
- Ensure Environmental Compliance: Adhere to environmental standards to protect local ecosystems.
- Sustainability and Efficiency: Introduce a system that is energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and easy to maintain.
Approach
1. Site Analysis and System Selection
Burke Environmental carried out a detailed site survey to assess the existing infrastructure, soil composition, and groundwater levels. Based on these findings, a cutting-edge sewage treatment plant with advanced filtration was selected, ensuring durability and minimal environmental impact.
2. Design and Planning
Given the nature of the location and the premium on free space, the decision was made to remove the existing sewage treatment plant and replace it with a Tricel Maxus sewage treatment plant. The main office and reception building were connected to this new plant. At the factory, a Kingspan double pump sewage pumping chamber was installed. This required cutting out and installing a 90mm pumping mains pipe for approximately 150 metres through the main yard, connected to a chamber that discharges into the Tricel Maxus sewage treatment plant. This installation was particularly challenging as factory production had to continue uninterrupted.
A second Kingspan sewage pumping chamber was installed at the new office block, with a 90mm pumping main connected to the chamber, also discharging into the Tricel Maxus sewage treatment plant. This installation was complex due to the narrow alleyway where the 90mm pipe had to be excavated and installed.
3. Installation
The installation was executed with precision, involving excavation, system placement, and connection to the existing wastewater network. Burke Environmental ensured that all work adhered to strict environmental and health and safety guidelines, with minimal disruption to FP McCann’s daily operations.
4. Environmental Safeguards
To protect the surrounding area, measures were implemented to prevent runoff and contamination during the installation process. A silt management system and on-site waste management plan were integral to the project.
5. Monitoring and Maintenance
Following the installation, a monitoring programme was established to evaluate system performance and ensure continued compliance with environmental standards.
Key Results
- Regulatory Compliance: The new system fully complies with all UK and EU environmental and wastewater management regulations.
- Increased Efficiency: The advanced design delivers reliable wastewater treatment, reducing operational costs and maintenance requirements.
- Sustainability: The project underscores FP McCann’s commitment to sustainable construction practices.
- Enhanced Reputation: The project showcases FP McCann’s leadership in sustainable infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
Client Feedback
“This project was a great success, both in terms of improving our operational efficiency and highlighting our commitment to sustainability. Burke Environmental’s expertise ensured the installation met all our needs while enhancing our environmental credentials.”
Conclusion
The collaboration between Burke Environmental and FP McCann has resulted in a transformative upgrade to the wastewater management system at Knockloughrim. This project not only reinforces FP McCann’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility but also demonstrates Burke Environmental’s expertise in delivering innovative infrastructure solutions.
For more information on Burke Environmental’s septic tank and wastewater solutions, contact +44 28 2582 0116 or visit www.burkeenvironmental.co.uk