Council Urges Residents To Keep Wipes Out Of Sewer Network

Council says do not dispose of any form of wipes by flushing down the toilet. Image sourced: Pexels

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council are alerting the community to a recent increase in “flushable” wipes causing blockages throughout the sewer network and operational issues at Council's Sewerage Treatment Plant.

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Council said that while some products are marketed as "flushable", many wipes do not break down in the same way as toilet paper once they enter the sewer system. Instead, they can accumulate in pipes, pumps and treatment equipment, leading to costly blockages and damage to essential infrastructure.

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The resulting issues can increase maintenance and repair costs, disrupt wastewater treatment operations and, in some cases, contribute to sewer overflows.

Residents and businesses are being asked to dispose of all wipes in the rubbish bin rather than flushing them. This includes baby wipes, cleaning wipes, disinfectant wipes, make-up wipes and personal hygiene wipes, regardless of whether they are labelled as flushable.

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Council said placing wipes in the bin instead of the toilet is a simple step that can help protect the region's wastewater infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs and support the reliable operation of the sewer network.

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Council thanked the community for its ongoing cooperation in helping maintain a safe, efficient and reliable sewerage system for the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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