Abstract: The invention relates to a process for working up phosphorus-containing waste water by subjecting it to filtration with the use of a filter aid in a centrifugal filter. To this end, waste water with a temperature of at least 46.degree. C. and a pH-value within the range 0.5 to 4.0 is introduced into the centrifugal filter and fitrate coming from the centrifugal filter is introduced into a calming zone and separated therein within an average period of 10 to 60 minutes into yellow phosphorus and water containing 1 to 30 ppm of phosphorus. Water overflowing from the calming zone is treated with an oxidant and the waste water so freed from phosphorus is reacted with a neutralizing agent.