Identifying and Strengthening “WEAK LINKS” in the Fog Management Chain

Recently, EPA presented statistics that cited grease accumulation in sewers as the leading cause of sewer blockages resulting in sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). Such blockages can be attributed to fats, oils, and grease (FOG) discharged from food preparation and manufacturing facilities, concentrated residential areas, and even single family homes. Municipalities and wastewater system managers have responded to this problem by implementing FOG management programs, often successfully reducing FOG blockages and subsequent SSOs. However, many programs are not as strong as they could be in important areas of education, treatment, and enforcement. These weaknesses may ultimately result in FOG management program failures. Municipalities, governmental agencies, and wastewater system managers should anticipate potential “weak links” while addressing the typical aspects of a FOG management program. Common “weak links” include ambiguous or vague ordinances that do not clearly delineate roles and responsibilities, poorly trained kitchen staff, inappropriate grease interceptor (GI) sizing methods, and weak enforcement of FOG management regulations. By adequately reinforcing “weak links” in the FOG management chain, responsible officials and agencies can create a FOG management program that will save money, time and resources, and protect the health of the public and the environment, by reducing FOG accumulation in the sewer system.