Evaluation of the updated Onawi regulations for wastewater re-use and discharge

Guidelines for wastewater re-use quality are based on scientific and epidemiological findings. As such, it provides guidance towards making risk management decisions that are related to the protection of public health and environmental preservation (Hespanol, 1992). Over the last thirty years, or so, considerable work has been done to assess risks emerging from wastewater re-use and develop methods that would aid removal or minimization of the risks. For example reports by WHO, 1973 and 1989) have contributed greatly in reviewing and summarizing research and experience all over the world with the purpose of establishing sensible guidelines for wastewater re-use. Wastewater regulations are established by countries while adopting their national priorities and strategies. Attention is usually paid to technical, economical, social, cultural, hygienic practices, and political characteristics and constraints. The regulations for wastewater re-use and discharge in the Sultanate of Oman were first introduced in 1986. This paper gives a critical review of the updated regulations and makes procedural recommendations.