Driving Excellence in Safety and Collaboration at Dunfermline Wastewater Treatment Works

This is the first in a series of articles showcasing the work of RSE’s Operations and Maintenance (O&M) team, highlighting their expertise in delivering proactive solutions that support the water industry’s critical infrastructure.

At Dunfermline Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW), the team has been working alongside Scottish Water to ensure the long-term performance of vital assets. This project focuses on facilitating condition assessments—inspections designed to evaluate the state of key assets and ensure their continued performance and reliability.

Aeration lanes, a crucial part of the wastewater treatment process, require regular inspection and maintenance to remain effective. These lanes introduce oxygen to promote the biological breakdown of waste, making them essential to treatment operations. At the Dunfermline site, the O&M team provided enabling works to ensure safe access for these assessments.

The works included isolating the aeration lane and collaborating with Central Industrial Services (CIS) to remove heavy sludge and grit, preparing the lane for inspection. Once cleaned, the RPS inspection team conducted a comprehensive structural survey, assessing the internal and external integrity of the asset. In parallel, RSE’s MEICA (Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control, and Automation) team carried out detailed inspections, including a pattern test to confirm the even distribution of aeration before returning the lane to operation.

The MEICA inspection was led by graduate project engineer Corey McAlpine, who used the Fulcrum app to grade the equipment’s condition. This digital tool, widely used on Scottish Water projects, streamlines asset assessments with a grading system:

• Grades 1, 2, or 3: Good or acceptable condition.
• Grade 4: Asset requiring attention or repair soon.
• Grade 5: Asset has failed and requires immediate action.

This approach ensures detailed and efficient reporting, supporting Scottish Water’s maintenance planning and long-term asset management.

Reflecting on the project, Allan Urquhart emphasised the importance of safety:
“Safety is our top priority. Maintaining a safe and compliant working environment protects our teams and enables us to deliver quality work efficiently and responsibly, instilling confidence in clients and stakeholders.”

Scottish Water’s Project Manager, Jim Tudhope, praised the team’s performance:
“RSE has done an excellent job delivering the enabling works at Dunfermline WWTW. Their meticulous coordination, effective communication, and use of tools like the Fulcrum app have been key to the project’s success. The team’s efforts have ensured the work is completed safely, on time, and in line with Scottish Water’s long-term asset planning procedures.”

John Pocock, RSE’s O&M Portfolio Director, also commented on the broader impact:
“This project reflects RSE’s commitment to proactive and sustainable asset management. By extending asset lifespans through smart maintenance strategies, we’re preventing failures, reducing costly replacements, and conserving resources. Tackling asset deterioration early keeps critical infrastructure performing reliably, aligning with circular economy principles.”

The enabling works at Dunfermline WWTW showcase RSE’s expertise and collaborative approach to maintaining essential wastewater systems. By delivering proactive inspections and efficient solutions, the team supports Scottish Water in safeguarding critical infrastructure, ensuring its reliability for the communities it serves.

This project is a testament to the teamwork and technical excellence across RSE and partner organisations, demonstrating how proactive maintenance delivers lasting value for clients and the environment.