Sewage treatment works and the people who operate them are the unsung heroes of this nation’s infrastructure system, doing their job out of sight to protect public health, the environment, and the smooth functioning of our homes.

Regular maintenance of these facilities is essential for ensuring that they continue to work efficiently and in compliance with environmental standards.

Recently, our team was called to carry out some essential cleaning work at an important client’s sewage treatment site. The task was critical and it was clear – to keep critical systems flowing and preventing costly disruptions. With the help of our new specialist vacuum tanker, we were able to complete the job swiftly, safely, and with minimal disruption.

Reasons to routinely clean sewage treatment works

Routine cleaning at sewage treatment works is an important part of our job because it’s vital for our clients in the sewage treatment industry for a number of reasons:

Preventing blockages and overflows. Over time, sludge, debris, and non-biodegradable material accumulates in tanks and pipework. If left uncleared, they cause serious blockages, leading to overflows, environmental damage, and system downtime.

Complying with environmental regulations. Regulatory bodies require treatment works to meet strict discharge and operational standards. Regular cleaning helps maintain compliance and avoid costly and public penalties.

Protecting downstream systems. A well-maintained treatment plant reduces the risk of damage to assets downstream, such as pumping stations, outfalls, and natural watercourses.

Investing in the best equipment

To meet the demands of modern infrastructure maintenance, we’ve invested in a new specialist vacuum tanker – a powerful addition to our in-house fleet of vehicles specifically designed for high-performance cleaning tasks.

Our new vehicle, which was custom-built and delivered by UK manufacturer RTN Clayton Vallely Ltd earlier this year, incorporates special features for its task:

  • High-capacity tanks for efficient waste collection and fewer trips off-site
  • Advanced suction power to handle heavy sludge and debris
  • Integrated safety systems, including spill containment and emergency shut-off
  • Eco-friendly design, meeting the latest emissions and environmental standards

This equipment allows us to tackle even the most challenging cleaning jobs with confidence, speed and precision.

Minimising disruption

We understand that sewage treatment works are critical for modern society, so any downtime must be kept to an absolute minimum. That’s why our approach is built around efficiency, safety, and compliance.

Our teams are fully trained in confined space entry, hazardous waste handling, and site-specific safety protocols. With the right equipment and expertise, we can complete cleaning operations quickly (often within a single shift) while ensuring full containment and legal adherence.

We also work closely with site managers to plan operations around peak flow times, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing treatment processes.

Partnering with our clients to protect valuable infrastructure

Our recent call-out was just one example of the long-standing partnerships we build with our commercial and utilities clients across southern England from our base in Aldershot.

Proactive maintenance of sewage treatment works isn’t just about avoiding problems—it’s about ensuring long-term operational efficiency, environmental compliance, and financial sustainability. With the right equipment, trained personnel, and a commitment to excellence, we help our clients stay ahead of issues before they become costly emergencies.

Whether it’s scheduled maintenance or an emergency response, our team is ready to support the infrastructure that keeps communities running.

We pride ourselves on being more than just a service provider, we are a trusted partner. Our ability to respond quickly, to adapt to complex and challenging environments with the right equipment, and to deliver consistent results has made us the go-to choice for many facilities managers and utility operators.

If you manage a commercial facility, utility site, or treatment works, now is the time to plan ahead. Get in touch with our team to schedule an inspection or discuss a tailored maintenance programme. Together, we can keep your systems flowing and your operations protected.

Drain and Sewer Services

In addition to largescale contracted maintenance work for treatment plants, Drain and Sewer Services has over 50 years’ experience in offering expert advice and maintenance for guttering, septic tanks, and drainage systems. Our clients include owners and operators of commercial, public and private residential properties.

For more information about our full range of services, call us on 01252 312738, or email  info@drainandsewer.co.uk and we can discuss how we can support your operation.