The Industrial Pretreatment Program (IPP) was established in 1986 to protect the integrity of the sewer collection system, ensure proper operation of the Springfield Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (SRWTF), and prevent the introduction of harmful pollutants into the treatment system. The IPP accomplishes this by maintaining a current list of industrial users in the service area and by conducting inspections to evaluate compliance with the program.

Jurisdiction

The IPP jurisdiction extends over the eight municipalities that use the services of the SRWTF: Agawam, Chicopee (portion), East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Springfield, West Springfield and Wilbraham. 

The IPP permits, monitors and regulates a variety of industries in order to protect Commission treatment facilities and the Connecticut and Chicopee Rivers from the discharge of harmful contaminants.

Why is the IPP Necessary?

Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove heavy metals, cyanide or other toxic chemicals and can contaminate the wastewater sludge or the receiving waters. Marine life can be exposed to these toxic substances, which may enter the food chain and harm the public.

To control toxic discharges at the source and meet regulated effluent limits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that the Commission implement a Pretreatment Program.

For more information on the history of pretreatment programs, please read EPA’s National Pretreatment Program, 1973-2003: Thirty Years of Protecting the Environment.

Compliance Monitoring

Industries that are typically regulated are:

• Electroplaters, metal finishers
• Chemical manufacturers
• Machine shops
• Laboratories
• Hospitals
• Laundromats
• Restaurants
• Other firms that are tied into the Commission’s sewer system

The IPP conducts audits, compliance monitoring inspections, and demand monitoring inspections for the following reasons:

• Confirm industrial processes
• Evaluate compliance
• Identify wastewater pollutant pathways  
• Evaluate the effectiveness of pretreatment and monitoring systems
• Verify that residue is disposed properly

Dental Facilities

Specific guidance for Dental Facilities is available on the IPP Dental Facility Compliance Page.

How do I apply for an IPP Permit?

To apply for a pretreatment permit (new or renewal), complete and return a Wastewater Discharge Permit Application.

Discharging certain substances into the sewer system can:

• Interfere with the operation of the wastewater treatment facility  
• Jeopardize the health and safety of Commission personnel
• Clog sewer lines
• Be extremely dangerous if dumped in high concentrations
• Mix with other chemicals to form toxic gases

For new industrial users who are unsure if they are subject to the IPP, complete and return the Wastewater Survey for Non-Residential Establishments.

Based on the information provided, the Commission will determine if the discharge is subject to the IPP, at which point a permit application must be completed.

Temporary Discharge Permits (TDPs)

The IPP also issues Temporary Discharge Permits (TDPs) to facilities that have a one-time or infrequent industrial wastewater discharges. The TDP has general and specific discharge standards, and special monitoring and reporting standards. TDPs are often used for site remediation projects or hydrostatic tests on storage tanks. Users seeking a TDP should complete and return the Temporary Discharge Application Form.

Return all IPP Forms (mail) to:

If you have any questions about the program, please contact the Commission at 413-310-3449 or IPP@waterandsewer.org.