POTW pretreatment programs require comprehensive data management systems. Large POTWs that serve many industrial facilities generally will have a computerized data management system. The computer stores records of the pollutant levels detected in wastewater samples. This allows for a rapid comparison of observed and allowed discharges and the automatic detection of violations. The computerized database can also be used to assist the POTW to determine the source of problems, to calculate local limits, and to plan for system expansion.

In general, information and data that the POTW collects on industrial dischargers is available to the public and to government agencies without restriction. The public owns the POTW and, therefore, has the right to review the information it maintains, including any data showing evidence of detrimental effects on the collection system or the treatment plant. Restrictions are made, however, when the industrial facility is able to demonstrate that the release of such material would divulge information, processes, or methods of production entitled to protection as trade secrets. In these cases, information in a facility's file that might disclose trade secrets or secret processes is not made available for public inspection. However, industrial effluent data always remains available to the public without restriction. Non-confidential information regarding the pretreatment program must be maintained at a convenient location accessible by the public.

The pretreatment program is a public service designed to protect the public health and environmental quality of a community. In large part, public support for the program will depend on public participation in the program and public access to the information used in developing and administering the program. The POTW staff is responsible for working with industries and the community to define the objectives and benefits of the pretreatment program. The POTW can hold public meetings during the program's implementation. These meetings open a formal channel for public comment on the program and for dialogue with local industries and environmental groups. When local limits are developed or revised, all interested parties must be notified and invited to comment on these actions.

Another aspect of providing information to the public is mandated by federal regulations: the POTW must inform the public whenever a significant violation occurs (40 CFR 403.8 [f][2]). The POTW is required to publish in the area's largest daily newspaper, on at least an annual basis, the names of industries that have significantly violated pretreatment standards during the previous 12 months.