Sludge quality is central to the development of good practices for sludge production in relation to its destination (use or disposal). PD CEN/TS 13714 is a Technical Specification that discusses the characterization of sludges for good practice.
PD CEN/TS 13714 gives guidance for dealing with the production and control of sludge in relation to inputs and treatment and gives a strategic evaluation of recovery, recycling, and disposal options for sludge according to its properties and the availability of outlets.
PD CEN/TS 13714 is applicable for sludges from:
but excluding hazardous sludges from the industry.
PD CEN/TS 13714 on sludge management and disposal is useful for any entity that generates waste or sludge. PD CEN/TS 13714 is useful for:
Sludge quality depends on the composition of the upstream materials and the type of treatment including post-treatment storage. The consistency of these different properties is a critical aspect of the sludge quality and of the ability to determine its end destination (use or disposal).
The purpose of PD CEN/TS 13714 is to outline the management of sludges both upstream and downstream of the treatment process to ensure that it is suitable for the outlets available. Sludge is the inevitable residue of treating raw potable water and municipal and industrial wastewaters. PD CEN/TS 13714 refers to all types of sludge covered by CEN/TC 308 including sludges from treating industrial wastewater similar to urban wastewater and from water supply treatment work plants.
As a general rule, a high-quality sludge is likely to be acceptable to a large range of outlets giving greater operational flexibility. High-quality sludges are likely to be suitable for those outlets associated with maximum sustainability and minimum environmental pollution. The management of sludges will become increasingly more complex as environmental standards become more stringent and if outlets become more constrained by legislation and public attitudes.
PD CEN/TS 13714 methods are used where inputs are available to measure the quality parameters of sludge. There is a continuing need to develop a full set of standardized and harmonized methods which the manager and operator can use to evaluate the quality of sludge for treatment process design and operational purposes. PD CEN/TS 13714 contributes towards responsible waste-handling and recycling, and a more sustainable future for all.
CEN/TS 13714:2013