What Businesses Are Affected?
Permitted Industries
Wastewater discharge permits are issued to industrial sewer users that are designated by federal regulations (categorical industrial users), industries that have a large potential impact on the treatment system, and industries with high flow or organic loading. These permitted industries are monitored for compliance with permit limits, and to determine sewer billing under the industrial sewer rate. Albany currently has 12 permitted industrial users, including food processors, pharmaceutical manufacturing, titanium casting, metal finishing, research laboratories, and resin manufacturing.
Non-permitted Industry Survey
Pretreatment staff have inspected businesses and industries in Albany to determine types of wastewater discharged to the sewer system, and to survey chemical storage that could leak or spill causing detrimental slug discharges to the treatment system. More field work including inspections are needed in the months ahead to update this information, and business owners can expect to hear from Environmental Services staff regarding the updated survey.
The following business categories may generate process wastewater that could affect the wastewater treatment system, or store chemicals that could be of concern if spilled or discharged improperly:
- Automotive repair, including radiator and body shops
- Metal finishing
- Printing
- Dry cleaners
- Vehicle washing, including mobile wash operations
- Restaurants and food preparation facilities
- Dental offices
- Hospitals and medical clinics
- Mobile carpet cleaners
- Industrial laundry
- Grocery stores
- Storage and warehouse
Other categories, even residences, can discharge chemicals or grease improperly that can adversely affect the wastewater collection or treatment system. If you have questions about your business or home use of chemicals and their discharge to either the sanitary sewer or the stormwater system, please contact the Environmental Services office at (541) 917-7600.