RISK MANAGEMENT AT A MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT: IDENTIFICATION STAGE

Abstract

Municipal wastewater treatment plants are complex technical facilities that have a significant impact on the environment and public health. Effective risk management at such facilities allows timely identification of threats, prevention of accidents, and minimization of negative consequences for both the environment and the economy. One of the key stages of the risk management process is risk identification, which involves detecting potential threats, determining their causes, and forecasting possible consequences. Due to the complexity of technological processes and the multi-level nature of treatment, municipal wastewater plants have a high potential for various types of risks: quality, operational, environmental, financial, and those related to the human factor. Several methods are used to identify these risks, including historical data analysis, expert assessments (Delphi method), checklists, brainstorming, environmental analysis, and process mapping. A practical study at the wastewater treatment plant in Aktau showed that the most vulnerable equipment is located at the beginning of the technological line, such as bar screens and the activated sludge circulation chamber. The results emphasize the need for a comprehensive and systematic approach to risk identification and the simultaneous use of multiple methods to enhance the effectiveness of threat management and ensure safe operation of the facility.