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A Risk-Based Approach for Examining Vertical Separation Distances in On-Site Wastewater Treatment Sytems

Janicek, Anthony M.
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1284672860

Abstract Details

2010, Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Cleveland State University, Fenn College of Engineering.
Regulations regarding the use of on-site wastewater treatment systems in many states lack a sufficient scientific basis, which in many cases restricts the use of on-site systems, drives up cost, and restricts innovation of new treatment technologies. Of particular regulatory concern is the minimum vertical separation distance (VSD) located in the area between the trench bottom of the subsurface soil absorption system and any restricting or limiting layer. The minimum VSD needed for proper effluent treatment is based on many complex and interrelated factors regarding physical, chemical, and biological soil conditions at a particular site. Research has shown that depending on soil type and conditions, VSD between 1.5 feet and 4 feet is enough to adequately treat effluent yet many states use a “one size fits all” approach when setting regulations for on-site treatment systems. A stochastic mathematical model has been developed that provides an estimation of the probability that a contaminant concentration will reach a certain point below the trench bottom of the subsurface soil absorption system. This model has been incorporated into a simple, easy-to-use, Excel® based computer program that allows the user to evaluate the potential range of fecal coliform concentrations that may reach a specified groundwater or surface water location. This model has been developed to aid regulators, land use planners, and designers to quickly evaluate the associated risks of contamination from a specified on-site wastewater treatment system in a specified soil.
Mark Tumeo, PhD, JD (Committee Chair)
Steven Duffy, PhD, PE (Committee Member)
Rebecca Fugitt (Committee Member)
Walter Kocher, PhD (Committee Member)
81 p.
Civil Engineering; Environmental Engineering; Environmental Science
on-site wastewater treatment; decentralized wastewater treatment; vertical separation distance

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Janicek, A. M. (2010). A Risk-Based Approach for Examining Vertical Separation Distances in On-Site Wastewater Treatment Sytems [Master's thesis, Cleveland State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1284672860

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Janicek, Anthony. A Risk-Based Approach for Examining Vertical Separation Distances in On-Site Wastewater Treatment Sytems. 2010. Cleveland State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1284672860.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Janicek, Anthony. "A Risk-Based Approach for Examining Vertical Separation Distances in On-Site Wastewater Treatment Sytems." Master's thesis, Cleveland State University, 2010. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1284672860

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

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© 2010, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Cleveland State University and OhioLINK.