Engineers cite public health risks from wastewater in rivers

Leading engineers have called for measures to reduce the public health risks to swimmers arising from faecal matter in Britain’s rivers.

The Royal Academy of Engineering has unveiled a report with 15 recommendations arising from “risk-based assessments of the suitability of interventions for reducing public health risks” following workshops with engineers, water industry experts, campaign organisations and policymakers.

The recommendations included maintenance of assets by water companies, more monitoring and “near live” data for river and sea swimmers; a review of bathing standards; reduction of surface runoff; and “wider deployment of disinfection” in wastewater and overflow treatment.

The report also called on Defra to draw up a “joined up vision” for wastewater in the UK. It recommended the coordination of a national strategy for sustainable drainage, along with greater efficiency in water use, a ban on flushing wet wipes, and funding for developing new treatment procedures.

In addition, it recommended more research into faecal microbial behaviour and resistance to antibiotics; more skilled engineers and regulators; and the creation of a “wastewater champion” to bring on “effective collaboration across stakeholders.” 

In a foreword to the report: Testing the waters: priorities for mitigating health risks from wastewater pollution, the chief medical officer for England, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, wrote: “Even mild cases of illness can have broader impacts beyond the direct health effects,” citing for example absences from work or losses for “tourism-based businesses near waters used for recreational activities.”