Air quality assessments for WWTWs are commonly required to address potential impacts arising from process emissions, sludge handling, odour‑related air pollutants, and increased operational activity. Irwin Carr’s assessments are prepared to meet the expectations of Planning Authorities, Environmental Health Services, NIEA, EPA, and statutory consultees, providing clear and defensible evidence to support decision‑making.

Assessment Scope

Each WWTW assessment is tailored to the scale and nature of the facility, but typically includes:

• Review of the proposed works and treatment processes
• Identification of nearby residential and other sensitive receptors
• Consideration of operational air quality impacts, including emissions from treatment units, sludge processing, and ancillary plant
• Assessment of construction‑phase dust and particulate impacts
• Consideration of cumulative impacts where multiple emission sources are present

Dispersion Modelling & Emissions Assessment

Irwin Carr undertakes quantitative dispersion modelling where required to predict ground‑level concentrations of relevant pollutants at sensitive receptors. Industry‑standard modelling tools are applied using appropriate emission parameters and meteorological data to ensure outputs are robust, transparent, and proportionate.

Modelling results are compared directly against relevant air quality standards and guidance, allowing potential impacts to be clearly identified and objectively assessed.

Construction Dust & Particulate Assessment

For new or upgraded WWTWs, Irwin Carr assesses dust and particulate emissions associated with demolition and construction activities. This includes:

• Risk‑based screening of construction dust impacts
• Identification of sensitive receptors
• Specification of appropriate mitigation measures to control dust and particulate emissions during works
  This approach supports compliance while remaining practical and proportionate for contractors.
• Underwater Noise