What is the primary goal of implementing strict protocols in wastewater treatment facilities?

Implementing strict protocols in wastewater treatment facilities primarily aims to reduce risks to health and safety. Wastewater contains various contaminants, including pathogens and chemicals, which can pose significant risks to both public health and the environment if not managed properly. Adhering to stringent protocols ensures that the treatment processes are effective in removing these harmful substances, thereby protecting the health of the community and safeguarding environmental quality.

While minimizing operational costs and increasing production rates are important operational objectives, they do not supersede the critical need to manage health and safety risks effectively. Compliance with regulations is essential but is primarily a framework that supports the overarching goal of protecting public health and the environment. Thus, the focus on health and safety is fundamental to the mission of wastewater treatment facilities.