What is the main function of disinfection in wastewater treatment?

The primary purpose of disinfection in wastewater treatment is to control disease outbreaks by reducing or eliminating pathogenic microorganisms present in the wastewater. This is crucial because untreated wastewater can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that pose significant health risks to humans and the environment. By employing various disinfection methods such as chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) light treatment, or ozonation, wastewater treatment facilities ensure that these pathogens are sufficiently diminished before the treated water is released back into the environment or reused.

While removal of solids, reduction of biochemical oxygen demand, and stabilization of pH levels are essential components of wastewater treatment processes, they do not directly address the health risks posed by infectious organisms. The disinfection stage specifically targets the microbial content, making it a vital step in safeguarding public health and the ecosystem. Thus, controlling disease outbreaks stands out as the main function of disinfection in the treatment process.