In Septic Knowledge Center

SEPTIC TANK DEATH LEADS TO SAFETY CONCERNS and HIGHER SAFETY STANDARD

Securing septic tank lids might seem like the humble, inconspicuous cap of an underground world, but their purpose is far from ordinary. Serving as the gateway to the hidden realm of your septic system, these lids provide access for maintenance and inspections. They ensure that professionals can monitor the system’s health, pump out accumulated solids, and make necessary repairs.

However, along with their utility, septic tank lids also present potential dangers. Left unsecured or improperly covered, these lids can become safety hazards, especially in areas with foot traffic. Accidental falls or collapses into the tank pose serious risks. Moreover, these lids also protect the system from external elements like debris, animals, and weather, preventing unwanted damage or contamination. Thus, while septic tank lids may seem like just another lid, they play a crucial role in maintaining a functioning and safe home septic system.

The recent death of a young Florida boy has been a wake-up call for many homeowners about the importance of securing septic tank lids. The boy disappeared during a family birthday party at a park in Jacksonville, and his body was found inside a septic tank that evening. The boy’s death started an investigation by TV reporters into septic tank safety, and a promise from the Jacksonville mayor to standardize all the tank lids in city parks.

Florida regulations require tanks to be covered so that manholes are resistant to tampering, vandals, and children. Tanks can be secured with either:

  • A lock
  • A lid weighing at least 58 pounds
  • A lid that requires special tools to open

The TV reporters visited parks and boat ramps, where they found inconsistencies with the tank covers and their fasteners.

  • There were tank covers made with a variety of different materials; some were plastic, others fiberglass, and some metal.
  • The fasteners on the tank lids varied also; some had padlocks, and others were bolted shut. At one park, the bolts that were supposed to secure the lid had corroded, making it easy to open.
  • Many parks had more substantial security measures, including lids with padlocks, and in a few cases, access to the openings was inside buildings that were not open to the public.

This is why the lids, and their fasteners, need to be standardized throughout the city – to ensure safety in all parks by securing septic tank lids.

SAFETY AT HOME

The risk extends beyond public property, and includes any homes that have a septic system in their backyards. There are thousands of homes in SW Florida with the same safety issues. If you have a septic system and you are not sure if you are at risk, please reach out to us. As our regular maintenance service, we make sure all parts of your septic system, including the lids are properly fastened.

SECURING SEPTIC TANK LIDS

Have a professional inspect your tank and assess your lid and fastening system.

  • Make sure the lid is secure and in good shape
  • If it is locked with a fastener, make sure the riser is in good shape so the fastener is firmly bedded.
  • Make sure all screws and fasteners are locked in place.

It is best to use stainless steel fasteners, because they will withstand corrosive gases from the tank, as well as salty coastal air.

PEACE OF MIND

You can install an extra safety feature – for added protection – in case a tank is ever left open or exposed.

All septic tanks can be inexpensively retrofitted with a safety device. Septic manufacturers offer products that can prevent someone from falling in, such as screens that fit inside a riser, or a locking mechanism that can only be opened with a key.

An accident can happen in a moment, so never leave the lid open or unsecured – even for a minute.

 

 

 

 

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