Chemical usage represents one of the largest operational costs for water treatment facilities, yet the systems that manage these chemicals are often overlooked during design. Chemical systems are critical for effective disinfection, pH balance, corrosion control, and contaminant removal. However, their design is frequently governed by generalized value engineering principles, which can lead to safety hazards, regulatory non-compliance, escalating lifecycle costs due to wasted chemical, and premature equipment failure. This presentation will explore key design considerations, common pitfalls, and prevailing industry perceptions of chemical system design to promote a holistic approach to chemical systems that enhances operational reliability, safeguards compliance, and delivers long-term economic and process benefits. Key topics include: • Major Chemical Applications and Selections: An overview of key chemical processes in treatment facilities including disinfection, pH adjustment, coagulation/flocculation, and corrosion control, highlighting their roles in achieving treatment objectives and comparing alternative chemicals for each application. • Bulk Chemical Storage and Feed Considerations: Discussion of storage configuration, containment requirements, chemical degradation, and feed system design to minimize hazards and ensure accurate dosing. This section will also address redundancy strategies and material compatibility. • Design Calculations and Sizing: Practical guidance on calculating chemical demand, sizing storage tanks, and determining feed rates. These calculations underpin decisions about storage capacity and delivery frequency, linking directly to operational reliability. • Safety and Regulatory Compliance: Review of applicable standards and best practices for chemical systems, including secondary containment, HVAC, day tanks, and monitoring requirements. • Integration with Facility Operations: Strategies for aligning chemical system design with standard operating procedures, delivery constraints, equipment access, and instrumentation. Attendees will gain insight into how early prioritization of chemical system design can prevent operational bottlenecks and enhance long-term performance. Each of the topics will be illustrated by examples from operating facilities. The session is intended for engineers, operators, maintenance staff, and other utility staff seeking practical approaches to planning, design, implementation, and operation of chemical systems.