Advances in Process Safety and Hazard Mitigation in Chlorination and Disinfection Units of Water Treatment Plants

• Author(s): Matluck Afolabi ; Ogechi Amanda Onukogu ; Thompson Odion Igunma ; Adeniyi K. Adeleke ; Zamathula Q. Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu
• Paper ID: 1708816
• Page: 177-195
• Published Date: 12-09-2020
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 4 Issue 2 August-2020

Abstract

Chlorination and disinfection remain critical components of water treatment processes worldwide, ensuring the microbial safety of drinking water. However, these processes involve significant risks due to the reactive nature of chlorine-based disinfectants, posing potential hazards to both human health and environmental safety. This systematic review presents recent advances in process safety and hazard mitigation strategies within chlorination and disinfection units of water treatment plants. The study synthesizes contemporary approaches such as real-time leak detection technologies, advanced automation and control systems, and safer chemical handling practices that minimize occupational and environmental risks. Emphasis is placed on innovations in sensor-based monitoring, predictive analytics for hazard identification, and the integration of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to ensure rapid response and incident prevention. Additionally, the review evaluates the transition from gaseous chlorine to safer alternatives like sodium hypochlorite and chloramines, examining their risk profiles and operational implications. Key regulatory frameworks, including OSHA and EPA guidelines, are analyzed to assess their impact on shaping modern safety protocols. The study also highlights the role of human factors engineering, risk communication, and safety culture in improving operational resilience. A comprehensive review of case studies demonstrates how risk-based design, hazard and operability (HAZOP) assessments, and failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) have contributed to mitigating catastrophic failures. The incorporation of machine learning models for anomaly detection and incident prediction is also discussed as an emerging frontier. Overall, this review identifies critical gaps in current safety practices and proposes a multi-layered approach combining technology, policy, and human factors for enhanced hazard mitigation. It advocates for a paradigm shift from reactive to proactive safety management in disinfection units, aligning with the goals of sustainable and resilient water infrastructure. These insights offer a roadmap for utility managers, policymakers, and engineers to implement robust and adaptive safety measures in water treatment facilities.

Keywords

Chlorination, Disinfection Units, Process Safety, Hazard Mitigation, Water Treatment Plants, SCADA Systems, Chlorine Alternatives, Predictive Analytics, Occupational Safety, Regulatory Compliance.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Matluck Afolabi , Ogechi Amanda Onukogu , Thompson Odion Igunma , Adeniyi K. Adeleke , Zamathula Q. Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu "Advances in Process Safety and Hazard Mitigation in Chlorination and Disinfection Units of Water Treatment Plants" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 4 Issue 2 2020 Page 177-195

IEEE:
Matluck Afolabi , Ogechi Amanda Onukogu , Thompson Odion Igunma , Adeniyi K. Adeleke , Zamathula Q. Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu "Advances in Process Safety and Hazard Mitigation in Chlorination and Disinfection Units of Water Treatment Plants" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 4(2)