Sydney Water WWTP Earthing & Lightning Protection Requirements 

PCE were engaged by Thompson Controls to provide a third-party review of Earthing and Lightning Protection requirements for Dewatering Plant Upgrades at two Sydney Water Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) sites. The intent of the project was to outline specific earthing requirements of the water treatment plant in a clear and concise report so that Sydney Water could approve prior to construction and ensure clarity across all stakeholders, both during construction and upon project handover.

Section 5 of AS/NZS 3000:2018 outlines the minimum requirements for the selection and installation of earthing arrangements for low voltage systems in Australia. The wording of the standard is broad in nature and often skewed towards residential construction. Hence, the nature of this project was outlining practical methods of satisfying the requirements of AS/NZS 3000:2018 and specific Sydney Water Specifications regarding equipotential bonding and earthing of structural metalwork in an industrial setting.

Clarity and stakeholder alignment are critical in managing and executing effective engineering projects. PCE is proud to have supported Thompson Controls to deliver a practical industrial earthing solution, toward a safe, reliable, and compliant electrical installation.