Why Every Wash Bay Needs an Oil Water Separator

Wash bays are essential facilities for cleaning vehicles and machinery across councils, fleets, workshops, and industrial sites. While they help maintain operational standards, the wastewater they generate often contains oils, grease, and other contaminants. What happens if this oily wastewater goes untreated? The consequences can be serious, from environmental pollution to costly regulatory fines.

What an Oil Water Separator Does

An oil water separator is a specialised system designed to remove hydrocarbons from wastewater before it enters sewer systems or the environment. Using coalescing technology, these separators aggregate tiny oil droplets into larger ones that float to the surface for easy removal. By intercepting oils and grease, they reduce environmental risks. Typically installed as part of a wash bay’s wastewater treatment setup, oil water separators ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

Why It’s Essential for Every Wash Bay

Compliance: The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and local councils enforce environmental standards under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. Section 120 of the Act makes it an offence to discharge water contaminated with oil or grease. Strict regulations are in place to prevent water pollution, with fines starting from $30,000 for breaches.
Oily water must be treated using a trade waste-approved oil-water separator and discharged to the sewer under a valid trade waste agreement. Our system is approved by every trade waste authority in Australia, and we take pride in being industry leaders in both environmental performance and ease of use.

Environmental Protection: Untreated oily wastewater can contaminate waterways, harming aquatic life and ecosystems. Separators prevent harmful pollutants from entering waterways that keep our local environment clean and healthy.

Operational Benefits: Oils and grease can cause blocked drains and corrosion in sewer infrastructure, leading to expensive repairs and downtime. Separators reduce these risks and extend system longevity.

Water Recycling Potential: Some systems enable treated water to be reused on-site for non-potable applications, reducing overall water consumption and supporting sustainability goals.

Common Misconceptions

“We don’t produce that much oil.” Even small amounts of oil can accumulate and cause environmental harm or operational problems.

“We already have a basic filter.” Basic filters often cannot remove dissolved oils or smaller droplets effectively. Advanced separators are necessary for regulatory compliance.

“It’s too expensive.” The cost of an oil water separator is minimal compared to potential fines, forced site closures, environmental damage, and infrastructure repairs avoided.

Real-World Consequences of Not Using One

Failure to properly treat oily wastewater can result in heavy fines, forced operational shutdowns, and long-term damage to your organisation’s reputation. Environmental authorities strictly enforce discharge regulations, and non-compliance can lead to legal action and costly remediation work. The risks are significant and entirely avoidable with the right treatment system in place.

How CleanaWater Can Help

CleanaWater offers a range of oil water separators designed to fit seamlessly with your wash bay system. Our solutions are tailored to your site’s specific wastewater challenges and regulatory requirements. From small workshops to large industrial operations, we provide:

• Coalescing separation for effective oil removal
• Ongoing maintenance and support to ensure peak performance
• Partnering with CleanaWater means you’re covered every step of the way, from system design and installation through compliance monitoring and servicing.

An oil water separator is a vital component for any wash bay aiming to comply with regulations, protect the environment, and maintain operational efficiency. Don’t risk fines or environmental damage. Contact CleanaWater today on 1800 353 788 for a compliance check or site assessment tailored to your needs.