ODOUR CONTROL Fermentation tank GRP cover at Driefontein WWTW
More to odour control than supplying equipment Established in 1996, OdorCure typically partners with contractors, consulting engineers and municipalities when dealing with odour control issues in wastewater treatment facilities. Each of these role players has a different approach and interest when dealing with odour control.
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ith over two decades of experience, OdorCure has the technologies and know-how to meet the needs of these different parties. The odour control business is more complicated than simply delivering a piece of equipment. There is a technical aspect, as well as a contract and project management side to the business. It is also important to understand the operational environment that requires odour control,” says Hennie Smal, project manager at OdorCure.
Main contractor
For a main contractor, the pricing of odour control is very important because cost
weighs most in a tender award process. It is also important for the subcontractor providing odour control equipment, first, to supply fit-for-purpose equipment and, second, to install it properly and commission it to work correctly. “If we are appointed by a main contractor to work as a subcontractor, it is important to understand not only the technical specifications but also the other contractual obligations and management process. Often, detailed drawings and documentation may have to be submitted and strenuous safety rules and regulations followed. It is important for the subcontactor to understand and be able to function in this Dry scrubber environment with minimum fuss at Buffalo City for the main contractor. Pump Station (550m3/h) “Incorrect pricing, or not understanding contract requirements, has caused many a subcontractor to lose a lot of money and may even result in them not being able to perform. They may then be in breach of contract. This
can be a nightmare for the employer, main contractor and consultants alike,” adds Smal.
Consulting engineers
A municipality may approach consulting engineers with an odour problem. The consulting engineers will then investigate the problem and recommend possible solutions. Once a decision on the best option is reached, the consulting engineers will write a tender specification that will form part of a formal tender document. Smal explains that, with a tender specification, an odour control company has to understand what is technically required. “Sometimes, a company will offer a particular technology without truly understanding the complexity of the application. “The first mistake that companies make is that they misinterpret the contract specifications. The second mistake is that they underestimate the process that needs to be followed to install odour control equipment.” A large amount of information may have to be submitted, and this could include detailed technical papers, brochures, papers and drawings (electrical, mechanical and civil drawings). All this information is assessed by the consultants who will have many questions. These questions must be answered satisfactorily and revisions to designs may have to be submitted. “This can be a time-consuming process, and there are time constraints under a contract. Your designs can take months to approve. If your equipment is imported, there can be delivery delays. It is very easy to get lost in that process and to be
