Improper disposal of fats, oils, and greases (FOG) can cause significant damage to wastewater service lines, city sewer lines, and the city’s wastewater treatment facility. The City of Newcastle offers tips to protect your service lines and help the City maintain its wastewater treatment system.
A City official said small changes can make big differences. He said when grease cools, it hardens. When that happens in pipes, it can cause blockages, backups and expensive repairs.
For area food businesses, this means abiding by the Newcastle Code of Ordinances, which state that food-prep businesses need a grease interceptor in their waste lines.
The interceptor catches grease before it gets into the sewer. It has to be the correct size for your kitchen, easy to get to for cleaning and inspection, and kept in good working order at all times. This applies to anywhere food is prepared, and dishes are washed.
Avoid pouring grease or oil into sinks or drains. Avoid using hot water to “flush” grease, because it will still harden downstream. Do not skip maintenance until there’s a problem.
For more information, contact Newcastle Public Works Authority at 405-387-4434, or the Newcastle Planning and Community Development Department at 405-387-4427.
