Links and Frequently Asked Questions:

 
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ page). Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to our Web site may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please email us dennis@trueflow.co.uk, or owen@trueflow.co.uk or call us during [BUSINESS HOURS] at 01656 880922.


Q1. Do I need to meet MCERTS requirements for effluent flow monitoring?

It is mandatory to meet MCERTS requirements if your permit (PPC/EPR/WRA) includes effluent flow monitoring and data returns are provided to the E.A.

Q2. My plant discharges to public sewer, do I still need to meet MCERTS requirements?

It is not mandatory to meet MCERTS requirements yet.  The Utility that receives and treats your plants effluent may require your effluent flow monitoring to meet MCERTS standards. However, if your discharge has an EPR permit then it is likely to stipulate that you meet MCERTS requirements.

Q3. I already measure effluent discharged from site what I need to do to achieve MCERTS certification?

MCERTS certification is achieved on completion of a successful site inspection AND Quality Management System Audit. The MCERTS scheme is operated by SIRA Environmental on behalf of the EA. You should visit their website and select an MCERTS auditor from the list provided. The web address is: www.sira.co.uk/mcerts_effluent_service_providers.html . You should arrange with your chosen service provider a convenient date/time for the MCERTS inspector to visit site to carry out an MCERTS inspection of your measurement installation. To complete the inspection the inspector will require access to the measurement location, structure and meter. You will also be asked to provide information such as permit number, consented discharge values and, if possible, any historical flow records. The inspector will provide you with an MCERTS Site Inspection Report clearly stating if your measurement structure meets MCERTS requirements. If successful you should then contact SIRA to arrange your QMS audit at mcerts@siraenvironmental.com.

Q4. What happens if the installation fails MCERTS site inspection?

If your installation fails to meet MCERTS requirements your inspector will provide you with a report outlining what is required to allow the installation to meet MCERTS requirements. On completion of the required improvements you must contact the same MCERTS service provider to carry out a re-inspection of your installation.

Q5. I have no measurement in place yet need to achieve MCERTS certification, what should I do?

You can employ the services of an MCERTS inspector to visit site and carry out a Pre-inspection audit, aimed at establishing a location and methodology of measuring your effluent discharge. The inspector can then undertake a full site inspection on completion of the installation/required improvements.

Q6. How long does my certificate last for?

Your certificate lasts for 5 years. You are required to have your site re-inspection before the expiry of the current certificate.

Q7. Many instrument suppliers claim an accuracy of much better that 8%, so why is the accuracy requirement difficult to meet?

Instrument accuracy is only one part of the jigsaw that makes up the overall uncertainty value. Measurement structures also introduce an uncertainty, due to the limitations of the construction, or due to the formulae used to establish the depth to discharge relationship. Other errors such as the zero setting or the errors in depth measurement can introduce further uncertainty that has to be included in the overall uncertainty calculation.

Q8. Do we have to measure flow rates at the final effluent discharge point.?

The procedures allow the discharger to choose the location for flow measurement as long as it meets specific requirements. The measurement location must represent the daily volume which passes through full treatment and is discharged as final effluent. The measurement location must take into account storm overflows and returns, together with process returns and any imported flows.

Q9. If Magflow meters are provided with a certificate of calibration showing an accuracy of better than 0.5% over the selected range, why are they not used more extensively.?

Because many existing works are designed around flumes or v-notch installations there is a reluctance to abandon these installations in favour of a magflow meter. It can also be difficult to find suitable locations where the pipe work can be arranged to ensure that the meter remains full at all times. When the pipe work can be modified to accommodate a magflow meter, then this type of meter can offer significant cost savings in terms of installation cost and ongoing maintenance requirements. When installed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations accuracy of better than 3% is achievable. The meters can offer a wider flow range than flumes and v-notches and are the only instruments that can effectively measure discharge rates of less than 0.5 l/s.

Q10. How will the continuing accuracy of measurement be maintained.?

Part of the MCERTS requirement is for a quality management system (QMS) to cover important aspects of effluent flow measurement. The manual will include specifications for the procurement, installation, calibration and ongoing maintenance for all measurement sites. The manual will need to demonstrate to the auditor that the accuracy of the measurement system can be maintained for the lifetime of the audit. If the auditor feels that the QMS is inadequate and the accuracy requirements may be compromised then the site may not achieve certification.

Q11. Where can I find further information on the EA’s flow policy requirements.

Further information on the EA’s policy can be found on the EA’s web site www.environment-agency.gov.uk and from SIRA Environmental at www.siraenvironmental.com/mcerts/