A reduction in Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) in sewers necessary to prevent harmful overflows
Akron, Ohio, March 21, 2018 – The City of Akron is asking its residents and businesses to follow simple steps to help prevent costly and unhealthy sewer overflows. Grease is a major cause of sewer line blockages. When a blockage occurs, it can result in sewer backups and overflows into local waterways. During a time when the City is heavily investing in its sewer infrastructure, FOG control is vital to maintain the proper operation of wastewater collection and treatment systems.
Currently, the Water Reclamation Facility is experiencing problems due to illegal mass dumping of FOG into the sewer system. The large volume of FOG appearing at the wastewater plant indicates these amounts are likely from professional grease haulers and not from individual restaurants. Residents can assist in identifying those responsible for the illegal dumping by reporting unusual activity, for instance a tanker truck in a remote area or parked over a manhole, by calling 311 or visiting akronohio.gov/311.
Beyond reporting illegal dumping, there are protocols that Akron area businesses and residents can follow to further alleviate sewer blockages. As a directive of the US EPA Consent Decree, the City has developed and implemented a FOG control program, specifically for Food Service Establishments (FSEs). A brochure on the FOG program for FSEs can be found on akronwaterwaysrenewed.com. To help enforce this necessary program, the City has entered into an agreement with Summit County Public Health to coordinate inspections of FSEs suspected of violating the FOG control requirements.
Residential households can also do their part to keep sewers clear. Individuals can take a few simple steps, such as:
- Do not pour fats, oils and grease down the drain. Don’t rely on your garbage disposal and sink drain to get rid of the grease.
- Use a paper towel or napkin to remove greasy leftovers from pots and dishes prior to washing in the sink or dishwasher.
- Pour cooking oils and scrape grease into a container and dispose in the garbage.
- Food waste can also contain FOG. Place leftover food, scraps and fat trimmings in the garbage, not in the garbage disposal.