Subject :  INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER POLLUTION AND CONTROL

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Chapter : 1


Introduction: Water Quality Standards for Industrial Use

Water quality standards play a crucial role in regulating and maintaining the quality of water resources, particularly in the context of industrial activities. The utilization of water for industrial purposes, including manufacturing, processing, and cooling, requires careful consideration of its quality to ensure environmental sustainability and protect human health. This introduction provides an overview of water quality standards for industrial use, highlighting their significance, key parameters, and the regulatory framework governing their implementation.

Water quality standards are guidelines or limits established by regulatory agencies to protect water bodies from pollution and maintain their ecological integrity. These standards define the acceptable levels of various physical, chemical, and biological parameters in water, ensuring that it remains suitable for its designated use. In the industrial sector, water quality standards serve as a critical tool to control and manage the discharge of pollutants generated from industrial processes, thereby safeguarding the environment and preventing adverse impacts on ecosystems.

The parameters addressed by water quality standards for industrial use encompass a wide range of factors that directly or indirectly affect water quality. Common parameters include pH, temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus), heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and microbial contaminants. These parameters are carefully monitored to assess the quality of industrial wastewater and ensure compliance with established standards before discharging the effluent into water bodies or municipal treatment systems.

The development and enforcement of water quality standards for industrial use involve a regulatory framework that varies from country to country. In many cases, government agencies responsible for environmental protection, such as environmental protection agencies or ministries, establish and enforce these standards. They collaborate with scientific experts, industry stakeholders, and environmental organizations to establish scientifically sound standards that strike a balance between industrial needs and environmental sustainability.

Compliance with water quality standards for industrial use is typically mandatory, and non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, or legal action. The regulatory authorities monitor industrial discharges through regular inspections, sampling, and analysis of wastewater effluents. Industries are required to implement appropriate wastewater treatment systems and adopt pollution prevention practices to meet the prescribed standards. In some cases, permits or licenses are issued to regulate the quality and quantity of water used by industries, ensuring that they operate within the defined limits.

In conclusion, water quality standards for industrial use are essential for maintaining the integrity of water resources and minimizing the environmental impact of industrial activities. These standards provide a framework to control and regulate the discharge of pollutants into water bodies, protecting ecosystems and safeguarding public health. By adhering to these standards, industries can contribute to sustainable water management practices and demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship.

Relevant Indian Standards for use of water in Textiles : 

In India, the use of water in the textile industry is governed by various relevant standards to ensure the quality and sustainability of water resources. Here are some of the key Indian standards related to the use of water in textiles:

1. IS 15758:2007 - Textile machinery and accessories: Minimum water supply requirements: This standard specifies the minimum requirements for water supply in textile machinery and accessories. It covers aspects such as water quality, pressure, flow rate, and temperature needed for efficient textile processing.

2. IS 15115:2002 - Textiles: Guidelines for water management in textile processing: This standard provides guidelines for sustainable water management in textile processing units. It covers aspects such as water conservation, recycling, treatment, and pollution prevention to minimize the environmental impact of textile operations.

3. IS 16795:2018 - Textiles - Testing of coloured textile fabrics: This standard outlines the methods for testing the colorfastness of textile fabrics. While not specific to water usage, it indirectly relates to water quality as colorfastness testing involves exposing textiles to water or other liquids to assess color bleeding or fading.

4. IS 8169:1976 - Textile machinery - Water consumption of textile machinery: This standard specifies the method for determining the water consumption of textile machinery. It helps textile manufacturers evaluate and optimize their water usage during various textile processing operations.

5. IS 14276:1995 - Textiles - Water used in textile processing - Determination of residual chlorine: This standard outlines the procedure for determining the residual chlorine content in water used in textile processing. It ensures that the water does not contain excessive chlorine levels that could adversely affect textile quality or processing.

6. IS 15861:2012 - Textiles - Determination of water repellency of fabrics: This standard provides methods for testing the water repellency of fabrics. It helps assess the effectiveness of water-repellent finishes applied to textiles, which is relevant for textile products used in outdoor or performance applications.

It is important for textile manufacturers in India to adhere to these relevant standards to ensure efficient water usage, minimize environmental impact, and maintain product quality. Compliance with these standards demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and responsible water management in the textile industry.


Paper Industry : 

In the paper industry, water plays a vital role throughout the manufacturing process, from pulp production to paper making. To ensure the sustainable use of water resources and minimize the environmental impact, several relevant standards are applicable to the paper industry in India. Here are some key Indian standards related to water usage in the paper industry:

1. IS 14683:1999 - Paper and board - Testing of water: This standard outlines the methods for testing the quality of water used in the paper industry. It includes parameters such as pH, turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biological oxygen demand (BOD) to assess the suitability of water for paper making processes.

2. IS 9375:1979 - Methods of sampling and test for water and waste waters used in paper industry: This standard provides procedures for sampling and testing water and wastewater used in the paper industry. It covers various parameters, including color, suspended solids, alkalinity, hardness, and other chemical and physical characteristics relevant to water quality assessment.

3. IS 13425:1992 - Pulp, paper,and board - Water used in paper making: This standard specifies the requirements for water used in paper making processes. It covers parameters such as pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, and microbiological quality to ensure that the water meets the necessary quality standards.

4. IS 13917:1994 - Code of practice for water management in paper industry: This standard provides guidelines and best practices for water management in the paper industry. It covers aspects such as water conservation, reuse, recycling, and wastewater treatment to promote sustainable water use and minimize environmental impact.

5. IS 10600:1983 - Code of practice for installation of water treatment systems in paper mills: This standard outlines the recommended practices for the installation of water treatment systems in paper mills. It includes guidelines for the selection, design, installation, and maintenance of water treatment equipment to ensure the efficient treatment of water used in paper making processes.

By adhering to these relevant standards, the paper industry in India can optimize water usage, reduce pollution, and enhance overall environmental performance. Compliance with these standards demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices, efficient water management, and responsible production in the paper industry. Additionally, continuous monitoring and improvement of water management practices help mitigate environmental risks and contribute to the conservation of water resources.

Chemical industry: 


The chemical industry relies heavily on water for various manufacturing processes, making it crucial to have stringent standards and regulations to ensure the responsible and sustainable use of water resources. In India, several relevant standards apply to the chemical industry concerning water usage. Here are some key Indian standards related to water usage in the chemical industry:

1. IS 3025:2008 - Methods of sampling and test (physical and chemical) for water and wastewater: This standard provides guidelines for sampling and testing water and wastewater in the chemical industry. It covers a wide range of parameters such as pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), heavy metals, and other physical and chemical characteristics relevant to water quality assessment.

2. IS 3307:1974 - Water for industrial purposes - Guidance for utilization: This standard provides guidance for the utilization of water in industrial processes, including the chemical industry. It covers various aspects such as water quality requirements, treatment methods, and general principles to ensure the suitability of water for industrial applications.

3. IS 15566:2004 - Chemical used for treatment of water intended for consumption: This standard specifies the quality requirements for chemicals used in water treatment, including those used in the chemical industry. It outlines the permissible limits for impurities and contaminants in chemicals employed for water treatment processes.

4. IS 1070:1992 - Water for industrial cooling purposes - Specification: This standard specifies the quality requirements for water used in industrial cooling systems, including those used in the chemical industry. It covers parameters such as pH, hardness, suspended solids, and microbial limits to ensure the efficient and safe operation of cooling processes.

5. IS 10121:1982 - Chemicals for industrial water treatment - General requirements: This standard outlines the general requirements for chemicals used in industrial water treatment, which are relevant to the chemical industry. It covers aspects such as purity, handling, labeling, and packaging of water treatment chemicals to ensure their effectiveness and safety.

Adherence to these relevant standards is essential for the chemical industry in India to ensure the responsible use of water resources, protect the environment, and maintain the quality of water bodies. Compliance with these standards helps prevent water pollution, minimizes the environmental impact of chemical processes, and promotes sustainable practices within the industry. Furthermore, continuous monitoring, implementation of appropriate treatment methods, and adoption of water conservation measures are crucial for the chemical industry to mitigate water-related risks and contribute to the conservation of water resources.

Pharmaceutical industry : 

The pharmaceutical industry relies on water for various purposes, including manufacturing, research, and development. To ensure the quality, safety, and sustainability of water resources in the pharmaceutical sector, relevant standards and guidelines are in place. In India, several standards apply to the pharmaceutical industry concerning water usage. Here are some key Indian standards related to water usage in the pharmaceutical industry:

1. IS 4251:1994 - Water for laboratory use - Specification: This standard specifies the quality requirements for water used in laboratory applications, including pharmaceutical testing and research. It covers parameters such as conductivity, pH, microbial limits, and chemical impurities to ensure the suitability and reliability of water used in laboratory procedures.

2. IS 10500:2012 - Drinking water specification: While not specific to the pharmaceutical industry, this standard provides the specifications for drinking water quality. As pharmaceutical companies often provide potable water to employees, adherence to this standard helps ensure the provision of safe drinking water within pharmaceutical facilities.

3. IS 16000-30:2018 - Ambient air and indoor air - Part 30: Performance evaluation of laboratories conducting biological assay: This standard specifies the performance evaluation of laboratories conducting biological assays, which may involve water-based solutions. It includes guidelines for water quality used in biological assays to ensure accurate and reliable results.

4. WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality: Although not an Indian standard, the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for drinking water quality are widely referenced in the pharmaceutical industry. These guidelines provide internationally recognized recommendations on water quality parameters, microbial limits, and chemical contaminants to ensure the safety of drinking water supplies.

Apart from these specific standards, pharmaceutical companies in India often follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) and regulatory guidelines set by regulatory authorities such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). These guidelines encompass various aspects of water usage, including water quality, treatment, storage, and distribution within pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.

Compliance with these relevant standards and guidelines is crucial for the pharmaceutical industry in India to ensure the quality and safety of water used in manufacturing processes, research, and development activities. Adherence to these standards helps minimize the risk of waterborne contaminants, ensure accurate results in laboratory analyses, and maintain the integrity of pharmaceutical products. Additionally, implementing water conservation measures and sustainable practices contributes to environmental stewardship and the preservation of water resources.

Soft Drink :

The production of soft drinks involves the use of water as a primary ingredient and for various processing purposes. To ensure the safety, quality, and sustainability of water resources in the soft drink industry, relevant standards and regulations are in place. While specific Indian standards directly addressing soft drinks are not available, the industry follows general guidelines and standards related to water quality and food safety. Here are some key aspects related to water usage in the soft drink industry:

1. Potable Water Standards: Soft drink manufacturers in India must adhere to the national potable water standards. These standards ensure that the water used as an ingredient meets the required quality criteria, including microbial limits, chemical composition, and safety for human consumption.

2. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006: The soft drink industry operates under the regulatory framework of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The FSSAI sets and enforces regulations related to food safety, including the use of water as an ingredient in soft drinks. Compliance with FSSAI guidelines ensures that soft drinks meet the required safety and quality standards.

3. Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Soft drink manufacturers follow GMP guidelines to maintain hygiene, quality control, and safety in their production processes. GMP includes measures for water treatment, storage, and distribution to prevent contamination and ensure the safety of the final product.

4. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): HACCP is a systematic approach to identify, evaluate, and control food safety hazards. Soft drink manufacturers often implement HACCP principles to address potential risks associated with water usage and to ensure the safety of their products.

5. Bottled Drinking Water Standards: In cases where soft drink manufacturers produce bottled water as a product variant, they must comply with the Indian standards for bottled drinking water. These standards specify quality parameters, treatment methods, and packaging requirements to ensure the safety and quality of bottled water products.

While soft drink manufacturers may not have specific standards tailored exclusively for their industry, adherence to general water quality standards, food safety regulations, and best practices helps ensure the safety and quality of soft drinks. Additionally, implementing water conservation measures, optimizing water usage, and promoting sustainable practices within the industry contribute to environmental responsibility and the preservation of water resources.

Boiler Feed Water : 

Boiler feed water plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of boilers in various industries. It is essential to maintain high-quality boiler feed water to prevent equipment damage, improve energy efficiency, and ensure the longevity of the boiler system. Several standards and guidelines exist to govern the quality and treatment of boiler feed water. Here are some key aspects related to boiler feed water standards:

1. IS 10496:2018 - Feed Water, Boiler Water, and Condensate for High-Pressure Boilers: This Indian standard provides guidelines for the chemical composition and quality of feed water, boiler water, and condensate used in high-pressure boilers. It specifies permissible limits for parameters such as alkalinity, chloride, hardness, pH, and dissolved oxygen to ensure the safe and efficient operation of boilers.

2. IS 11614:1985 - Water for Thermal Power Plants: This standard outlines the requirements for water quality used in thermal power plants, including boiler feed water. It covers parameters such as pH, alkalinity, conductivity, turbidity, and various chemical impurities to ensure the proper functioning of the power plant's boiler system.

3. ABMA (American Boiler Manufacturers Association) Guidelines: The ABMA provides guidelines for boiler water and boiler feed water quality, which are often referenced in the industry. These guidelines include recommendations for the control of impurities, chemical treatment, and monitoring of boiler feed water to prevent scale formation, corrosion, and other boiler-related issues.

4. ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Guidelines: ASME produces codes and standards related to boilers, including guidelines for boiler feed water quality. These guidelines focus on preventing scale, corrosion, and damage to the boiler system by establishing water quality parameters and chemical treatment requirements.

In addition to these standards, boiler feed water quality requirements may vary depending on the type of boiler, its operating conditions, and specific industry needs. It is common for boiler manufacturers and operators to follow the recommendations of professional associations, consult with water treatment experts, and conduct regular water analysis to ensure compliance with the necessary standards.

Maintaining proper boiler feed water quality involves various treatment processes such as filtration, clarification, chemical dosing, and deaeration. These processes help remove impurities, control alkalinity, adjust pH, and minimize the risk of scale formation or corrosion in the boiler system.

By adhering to the applicable standards, implementing appropriate water treatment measures, and regularly monitoring boiler feed water quality, industries can optimize boiler performance, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of their boiler systems. Proper management of boiler feed water not only ensures safe and reliable boiler operation but also contributes to overall operational efficiency and cost savings.

Cooling Tower : 

The use of water in cooling towers is an important aspect of industrial operations, as it helps dissipate heat from various processes. To ensure efficient and sustainable cooling tower operations, several relevant Indian standards address the quality and treatment of water used in cooling towers. Here are some key Indian standards related to the use of water in cooling towers:

1. IS 3025:2008 - Methods of sampling and test (physical and chemical) for water and wastewater: This standard provides guidelines for sampling and testing water and wastewater, including water used in cooling towers. It covers parameters such as pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), alkalinity, hardness, and other chemical and physical characteristics relevant to water quality assessment.

2. IS 14152:1994 - Cooling water systems - Code of practice for treatment of water for cooling purposes: This standard outlines the code of practice for treating water used in cooling systems, including cooling towers. It covers aspects such as water quality requirements, treatment methods, chemical dosing, and control parameters to prevent scale formation, corrosion, and microbiological growth in cooling systems.

3. IS 14543:1998 - Water treatment chemicals - Cooling water treatment chemicals: This standard specifies the requirements for cooling water treatment chemicals used in cooling tower systems. It covers chemicals such as scale inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, biocides, dispersants, and antifoaming agents. Compliance with this standard ensures the selection and use of appropriate chemicals for effective cooling water treatment.

4. IS 6359:1981 - Code of practice for cooling tower: This standard provides guidelines for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of cooling towers. It covers aspects such as tower sizing, water distribution, airflow, drift control, and water treatment requirements to optimize cooling tower performance and prevent water-related issues.

5. IS 13235:1992 - Glossary of terms related to cooling towers: This standard provides a glossary of terms related to cooling towers, aiding in better understanding and communication within the industry.

These relevant standards help industries ensure the quality and proper treatment of water used in cooling towers, preventing issues such as scale formation, corrosion, and microbiological growth. By adhering to these standards, industries can optimize cooling tower performance, reduce water consumption, and minimize environmental impact. Additionally, routine monitoring, regular maintenance, and appropriate water treatment practices are essential to ensure the long-term efficiency and effectiveness of cooling towers.

Problems Of Silica : 

When dealing with problems related to silica in water, the use of relevant Indian standards can help address and mitigate the issue. Silica can cause scaling, fouling, and other operational challenges in various water systems. While specific Indian standards dedicated solely to silica-related water problems may not exist, the following relevant standards can be considered:

1. IS 10500:2012 - Drinking water specification: This standard provides specifications for drinking water quality in India. Although not focused on silica, it sets permissible limits for various physical, chemical, and biological parameters in drinking water. Adhering to these standards ensures the overall quality of drinking water, including the concentration of silica within acceptable limits.

2. IS 3025:2008 - Methods of sampling and test (physical and chemical) for water and wastewater: This standard outlines methods for sampling and testing water and wastewater. While not silica-specific, it provides guidance for analyzing various water quality parameters, including silica content. The standard can assist in assessing the silica concentration in water samples.

3. IS 11255:2006 - Water treatment for cooling towers and auxiliary cooling systems - Code of practice: This standard focuses on water treatment for cooling towers and auxiliary cooling systems. Silica control is an important aspect of cooling water treatment due to the potential for scale formation. While not solely dedicated to silica, this standard provides guidelines for managing water quality, including silica control, in cooling systems.

4. IS 11624:1986 - Water for industrial cooling systems - Specifications: This standard provides specifications for water used in industrial cooling systems. It addresses various parameters affecting cooling system operation, including silica. It sets limits and guidelines for controlling silica levels to prevent scale formation and related issues.

5. Chemical Treatment Programs for Cooling Water Systems: Although not specific to Indian standards, consulting widely recognized chemical treatment guidelines and recommendations from reputable organizations and associations such as the Cooling Technology Institute (CTI) can provide valuable information on silica control strategies and treatment options.

In addition to these standards, it is important to consult with water treatment professionals, engage in proper water analysis, and consider specific silica control methods suitable for the particular water system. Strategies such as silica removal through physical or chemical means, pH adjustment, and appropriate cooling water treatment programs can help address silica-related problems and optimize system performance.

Scaling & Corrosion :

When it comes to addressing scaling and corrosion issues in water systems, including industrial applications, several Indian standards provide guidelines and methods for water treatment. Here are some relevant Indian standards related to the use of water in scaling and corrosion control:

1. IS 10500:2012 - Drinking water specification: Although not specifically targeting scaling and corrosion, this standard specifies the quality requirements for drinking water. By complying with this standard, water systems can ensure that the water used for various purposes, including industrial applications, meets certain safety and quality criteria, which indirectly contributes to scaling and corrosion prevention.

2. IS 11624:1986 - Guidelines for corrosion monitoring in industrial water systems: This standard provides guidelines for monitoring corrosion in industrial water systems. It covers methods for sampling, analysis, and interpretation of corrosion monitoring data. By following these guidelines, industries can assess the corrosion potential in their water systems and take appropriate preventive measures.

3. IS 14456:1998 - Guidelines for selection of anti-scaling agents for industrial cooling water systems: This standard offers guidelines for selecting anti-scaling agents for industrial cooling water systems. It provides recommendations on the selection and application of chemicals or treatment methods to control scaling in cooling water systems.

4. IS 15541:2005 - Water quality for industrial boilers: This standard specifies the quality requirements for water used in industrial boilers. It covers parameters such as pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), alkalinity, hardness, chloride, and silica content. By complying with these requirements, industries can prevent scaling and corrosion issues in their boiler systems.

5. IS 15962:2012 - Guidelines for selection and operation of chemical treatment of water for cooling systems: This standard provides guidelines for the selection and operation of chemical treatment in cooling water systems. It covers aspects such as the selection of treatment chemicals, dosing methods, monitoring, and control. By following these guidelines, industries can effectively control scaling and corrosion in their cooling water systems.

It's important to note that scaling and corrosion control is a complex process that often requires a combination of strategies tailored to specific water systems and applications. While these standards offer valuable guidance, industries should consult with water treatment experts and consider factors such as water chemistry, system design, and operating conditions to develop comprehensive scaling and corrosion control programs. Regular monitoring, appropriate chemical treatment, and maintenance practices are essential for minimizing scaling and corrosion-related issues in water systems.

Caustic Embitterment :

The Indian standard for Caustic Embitterment is IS 252:2013. This standard specifies the requirements for caustic soda (NaOH), both pure and technical grade, for use in a variety of applications. The standard covers the following aspects of caustic soda:

  • Physical properties, such as density, melting point, and solubility
  • Chemical properties, such as pH, alkalinity, and chloride content
  • Impurities, such as iron, copper, and manganese
  • Sampling and testing methods

The standard also specifies the requirements for the packaging and labeling of caustic soda.

Caustic Embitterment is a condition that can occur when caustic soda comes into contact with food or other materials. It is caused by the alkaline nature of the caustic soda, which can react with the proteins in the food or material to form bitter compounds.

The IS 252:2013 standard helps to ensure that caustic soda is of a high quality and that it is not likely to cause Caustic Embitterment. The standard also provides guidance on how to prevent Caustic Embitterment from occurring.

Here are some of the key points of the Indian standard for Caustic Embitterment:

  • Caustic soda must be of a high purity.
  • The content of chlorides, iron, copper, and manganese must be low.
  • Caustic soda must be packaged and labeled in a way that prevents it from coming into contact with food or other materials.
  • Users of caustic soda must be aware of the potential for Caustic Embitterment and take steps to prevent it from occurring.

The Indian standard for Caustic Embitterment is an important tool for ensuring the safety of caustic soda and preventing Caustic Embitterment. By following the requirements of this standard, users of caustic soda can help to protect themselves and others from harm.

Benefits of Pollution Control : 

Sure, here are some relevant Indian Standards for the use of water in benefits of pollution control:

  • IS 10500 (2012): Drinking water
    • This standard specifies the requirements for drinking water, including its physical, chemical, and bacteriological characteristics.
  • IS 14948 (2013): Wastewater treatment plants - Guidelines for operation and maintenance
    • This standard provides guidelines for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants.
  • IS 18930 (2017): Industrial effluent treatment - Guidelines
    • This standard provides guidelines for the treatment of industrial effluents.
  • IS 19088 (2018): Guidelines for water quality monitoring
    • This standard provides guidelines for the monitoring of water quality.
  • IS 19402 (2019): Guidelines for water conservation
    • This standard provides guidelines for water conservation.

These are just a few of the many Indian Standards that are relevant to the use of water in benefits of pollution control. For more information, please visit the website of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

In addition to these standards, there are also a number of government regulations that govern the use of water in pollution control. These regulations include:

  • The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
  • The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977
  • The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
  • The Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989
  • The National Water Policy, 2012

These regulations are designed to protect the environment and public health by ensuring that water is used in a sustainable and responsible manner.