What is the primary function of a disinfection system in a wastewater treatment plant?

The primary function of a disinfection system in a wastewater treatment plant is to eliminate pathogens to produce safe effluent. This process is crucial because untreated or inadequately treated wastewater can harbor a variety of harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites that pose significant health risks to humans and the environment. By effectively disinfecting the effluent, the treatment plant ensures that the water discharged into the receiving water bodies or reused for various purposes meets safety standards and minimizes public health risks.

Disinfection methods, such as chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) light treatment, or ozonation, specifically target these pathogens, rendering them inactive or killing them outright. This step is often one of the final stages in the treatment process, highlighting its importance in protecting both human populations and aquatic ecosystems.