CHARACTERIZATION OF ABATTOIR WASTE WATER (A CASE STUDY OF SLAUGHTER HOUSE, OGBORHILL, ABA, ABIA STATE)

The physical, chemical and microbiological parameters in abattoir wastewater from slaughterhouse, Ogborhill, Aba, Abia State were determined. To achieve this wastewater samples were collected from the abattoir using the standard method of sample collection for laboratory analysis. The wastewater samples were transported(within 24hrs of collection and refrigeration)to the water resources laboratory of civil Engineering department,Federal Polytechnic Nekede,Owerri,Imo state for analysis. The following tests were conducted; BOD5, total suspended solids (TSS), suspended solids (SS), dissolved oxygen, dissolved solids, total solids, alkalinity, acidity, conductivity, ammonia, nitrate, nitrites,,faecal coliform and phosphorous. The abattoir wastewater was characterized by high level of conductivity,BOD5 dissolved solids,TSS and faecal coliform with values at 196s/cm, 100.5mg/L,670mg/L,1026mg/l,820mg/L, 1066.70mg/L and 20000cfu/mL respectively. pH values ranged from 6.8 to 6.2, BOD5 values ranged between 670mg/L to 170mg/L, D.O values ranged between 0.02mg/L to 2.70mg/L’ faecal coliform values ranged between 20000cfu/mL to 0cfu/mL. The mean TSS (total suspended solids) of 607mg/l was higher than the source limitations of FEPA (Federal Environmental Protection Agency) standard value of 25mg/l. Such elevated value for TSS in the abattoir wastewater might be attributed to various materials of solid waste from the slaughtered animals. The negative impact of this solid waste affects the environment. All these are a pointer that the abattoir activities should be done in an environmental friendly manner in strict compliance with environmental health and safety regulations.