Utah Administrative Code
Topic - Environmental Quality
Title R309 - Drinking Water
Rule R309-530 - Facility Design and Operation: Alternate Surface Water Treatment Methods
Section R309-530-7 - Diatomaceous Earth Filtration

The use of Diatomaceous Earth Filtration units may be considered for application to surface waters with low turbidity and low bacterial contamination, and additionally may be used for iron removal for groundwaters of low quality, providing the removal is effective and the water is of sanitary quality before treatment.

The acceptability of Diatomaceous Earth Filtration as a substitute for "conventional surface water treatment" facilities (detailed in rule R309-525) shall be determined by the Director. Determination may be based on the level of support previously exhibited by the public water system management along with a finding by the Director that "conventional surface water treatment" or other methods herein described are too costly or unacceptable.

Diatomaceous Earth Filtration consists of a process to remove particles from water wherein a precoat cake of diatomaceous earth filter media is deposited on a support membrane (septum), and while the water is filtered by passing through the cake on the septum, additional filter media known as body feed is continuously added to the source water to maintain the permeability of the filter cake. Diatomite filters are characterized by rigorous operating requirements, high operating costs, and increased sludge production.

Part 4, Section 4.2.3, Diatomaceous Earth Filtration, in the Recommended Standards for Water Works (commonly known as "Ten State Standards"), 2007 edition is hereby incorporated by reference and compliance with those standards shall be required for the design and operation of diatomaceous earth filtration facilities. This document is published by the Great Lakes-Upper Mississippi River Board of Public Health and Environmental Managers. A copy is available in the office of the Division for reference.