QR codes used to inspect on-site sewage facilities

Fraser Coast Regional Council will use QR codes to inspect on-site sewage facilities not connected to the sewer system.

Cr Paul Truscott said on-site sewage facilities were basically a mini sewerage treatment plant in a backyard, with property owners responsible for ensuring the facilities were working properly to protect the health of their family, the community and the environment.

“There are many properties across the Fraser Coast not connected to a reticulated sewage system with wastewater instead treated and disposed of through an on-site sewage facility,” he said.

“Under state laws, Council is required to maintain a register of service reports for on-site sewage facilities, and previously this has been a labour-intensive process involving transcribing paper reports into an electronic database.

“Council has developed a new QR code solution which allows an on-site sewage facility agent to record service information electronically by scanning the associated QR code, eliminating the need for physical documents and ensuring precise details are provided.

“This will make it easier for Council to manage and regulate on-site sewage facilities, ensuring the highest environmental health and safety standards for the community.”

Cr Truscott said an inspection program would occur between 1 September and 31 December this year, during which QR code stickers would be installed within electrical meter boxes on properties with an on-site sewage facility.

“Officers will start with outlying suburbs first and conduct inspections within regular business hours during the week to minimise the disruption to property owners,” he said.

“Property owners will receive notification of an estimated time and date a Council officer will visit.

“Council will work with industry as we roll out the new process to make it more efficient for service agents and ensure property owners meet service timeframes.

“Council is committed to designing flexible and innovative services to meet the diverse needs of our community, and that’s what we seek to deliver with this on-site sewage facility inspection program.”

More information about on-site sewage facilities, including an explainer video, is available at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/on-site-sewerage-facilities