Septic System Installers
Septic installers dig deep holes and long trenches, set tanks that weigh thousands of pounds, and work around sewage. Cave-ins, lifting accidents and toxic gas are the main risks, along with infection.
- Installers
- Excavators
- Septic Service
Hazards
- Cave-ins: deep tank pits and drainfield trenches. See Trenching Basics and Sewer & Septic Excavation.
- Tank handling: precast concrete tanks can weigh 5,000 to 15,000 pounds or more; plastic tanks float if the pit has water. See Rigging Basics.
- Gases: hydrogen sulfide, methane and low oxygen in existing tanks. See Wells, Cisterns & Septic Tanks.
- Sewage exposure: infectious bacteria and viruses. See Sewage Exposure.
- Utilities: gas, electric and water lines. See Call 811.
- Electrical pumps and control panels in wet locations.
- Equipment: excavators, loaders and trucks near the pit edge.
- Open tanks and risers that people and animals can fall into.
Safe practices
- Call 811 and review the site plan. Mark the tank and drainfield area.
- A competent person inspects excavations daily. Use sloping, shoring or trench boxes for pits and trenches deeper than 5 feet; protect shallower ones if there are signs of hazard. See Protective Systems.
- Keep spoil and equipment at least 2 feet from the edge. Provide ladders or ramps.
- Use a crane or boom truck with rated rigging and a signal person to set tanks. Keep everyone clear of the load and out of the pit while setting. Lower tanks onto prepared bedding.
- Do not enter old tanks. Use a permit program, gas testing and rescue equipment if entry is truly needed. See Confined Spaces.
- Cover or fence open tanks and risers at the end of every day and secure lids.
- Wear boots, gloves, eye protection and coveralls; wash with soap and water; do not eat in the work area. Keep tetanus vaccination current.
- Use GFCI protection for electrical tools, and wire pumps and alarms to code.
- Backfill evenly around the tank, in layers, and fill plastic tanks with water as the maker directs to prevent collapse or floating.
Standards & references
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