Pilbara communities asked to help stop wastewater blockages

Water Corporation has urged residents across the Pilbara to consider what they put down their toilets, sinks and drains to prevent blockages in the wastewater system.

Water Corporation North West Regional Manager, Rino Trolio, said wet wipes, sanitary products, rubbish and even clothing had caused weekly blockages in Karratha and Port Hedland’s wastewater systems.

“Items incorrectly being disposed of in the wastewater system cause blockages that are costly and time consuming to remove,” Mr Trolio said.   

“These blockages can result in wastewater overflows into homes and the environment, while also causing operational issues at pump stations and wastewater treatment plants.

“Depending on the location of the sewer blockage the responsibility may fall upon you to fix the issue.”

Mr Trolio said wet wipes, whether branded ‘flushable’ or not, did not break down as claimed and should never be flushed down the toilet.

“Wet wipes combine with fats and oils to form large coagulated clumps that need to be removed. The job removing these from the wastewater system is as unpleasant as it sounds!” Mr Trolio said. 

Water Corporation recently launched a new behaviour change campaign across the Pilbara to build awareness of the issue.

The campaign is based on the idea that flushing items like wet-wipes, cotton buds, sanitary items, cooking oils and kitchen scraps down the drain are feeding a ‘monster’, which grows bigger every day.

It’s easy to remember, only soap and water down the sink and paper pee and poo down the loo. For more information, visit https://www.watercorporation.com.au/monster