Centre Profile
Singapore Polytechnic’s 5G & AIoT Centre was set up to assist enterprises in prototyping and adopting technology that allows them to monitor their work in real-time, control applications remotely, and analyse data more efficiently by tapping on tools such as sensors and cloud platforms. The centre focuses on smart built environments, environmental health, and urban sustainability.
Problem Statement
Covid-19 highlighted the need for increased wastewater monitoring to track the spread of the virus. Wastewater testing provided a non-invasive method for researchers and environmental health technicians to trace infection clusters and isolate affected areas.
However, traditional wastewater testing required frequent on-site visits by technicians, leading to higher labour costs and increased exposure risks.
W2 Industrial Services Hub, a company specialising in safety detection for chemical, water & waste, and pharmaceutical clients, faced this challenge during the pandemic.
Impact Achieved
In 2021, W2 Industrial Services Hub partnered with SP’s 5G & AIoT Centre to address the challenges of traditional wastewater monitoring. Both had previously collaborated on a toxic gas detection system for Singapore’s Public Utilities Board in 2019. This time, they worked together to develop a sensor- and cloud-based wastewater sampling solution. In 2021, W2 Industrial Services Hub partnered with SP’s 5G & AIoT Centre to address the challenges of traditional wastewater monitoring. Both had previously collaborated on a toxic gas detection system for Singapore’s Public Utilities Board in 2019. This time, they worked together to develop a sensor- and cloud-based wastewater sampling solution.
This innovative system allowed W2 to remotely monitor wastewater samplers, enabling technicians to detect issues such as clogged filters or improper door closures from a central dashboard. They could also adjust testing schedules and frequencies based on peak sewage activity or focus on specific areas, reducing the need for frequent on-site visits, optimising resources, and minimising exposure risks.
As a result, W2 expanded its business and secured a contract with the National Environment Agency (NEA) in 2021 to deploy around 360 wastewater testing surveillance sites the following year.
Boosting Productivity and Public Health
“The solution significantly boosts productivity,” said W2’s managing director Ong Wee Wah. “W2 strives to remain competitive, actively exploring new opportunities for cloud-based solutions. We’re excited to collaborate with SP to achieve more positive results.”
A typical day for a W2 technician now begins with checking the dashboard to identify units requiring maintenance. The system proactively detects issues such as inactive units or failed sampling, enabling quick resolution and reducing the number of field deployments. Additionally, the 5G & AIoT Centre assisted W2 in installing solar panels on their sensors, further reducing maintenance needs and boosting efficiency.
While the pandemic has largely passed, autonomous wastewater monitoring remains crucial for Singapore’s public health. In early 2024, wastewater testing was used to screen for the Zika virus, and the system will continue playing a vital role in detecting and containing future outbreaks.
Beyond industry impact, the project provided invaluable learning opportunities. It allowed SP’s 5G & AIoT Centre staff to apply their expertise to an industry contract while giving students hands-on experience contributing to Singapore’s safety. Several Singapore Polytechnic students who worked on the project were recognised for their contributions, winning the prestigious Lee Hsien Loong IDM Smart Nation Award in 2022.
“It was a meaningful project, a win-win for all,” said Tan Chee Seng, the 5G & AIoT Centre director.
Looking ahead, the team plans to further enhance the solution in the coming year, with details currently confidential. However, their core objective remains clear—to advance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in wastewater monitoring through cutting-edge technology.
Singapore Polytechnic
500 Dover Rd Singapore 139651