When a septic tank is located in a construction zone during a project, certain steps must be followed to maintain a high level of safety throughout the entire construction process. Although construction environments are risky, there are easy ways to boost safety around a septic tank without decreasing a crew’s overall efficiency.

Place a Proper Lid on the Tank
A septic tank must have a very sturdy lid that can block access to all of the components in the chamber. If a lid doesn’t have a firm seal, the lid should be removed and replaced before any construction procedures are implemented on the property. The big problem is that a weak lid is a safety risk, as a worker could accidentally stumble into the tank if a kid removes the cover.
In order to test key operational component in a tank after a defective lid is replaced, you’ll need proper plumbing tools. The most common items include a:
• Wrench
• Flashlight
• Hydrostatic pressure gauge

Pinpoint the Tank’s Location
If you’re going to renovate an area on your property after a septic system is underground, you’ll need to pinpoint the spot where the tank is located. By working with a local septic company, the process of locating various parts of an underground septic system will be easier. If you use the blueprints that a professional crew provides, you’ll be able to make construction adjustments according to the placement of the septic system on the property.

Implement Procedures Near a Septic Chamber Strategically
During a construction project near an old septic tank, everyone should stay away from the chamber while the lid is removed. When a tank has waste, strong gases will emit from the unit. Because waste has multiple components, the scent that contaminates the air within the chamber could knock someone out. If someone collapses and drops into a septic system, the impact could cause a major injury.

In order to avoid breathing problems that are caused by harsh gases, all workers should wear a mask while handling equipment by an opened septic system. If you want to boost efficiency around the tank, simply place multiple masks on a table a few feet away from the septic system so that workers can grab a mask before tackling construction tasks near the harmful gases.

Operate Flammable Equipment in a Safe Zone
The air that surrounds a septic tank that doesn’t have a lid is filled with methane gas. This gas is very flammable, so someone can easily cause an explosion by operating improper equipment near a vulnerable tank. The most dangerous items are torches because they produce flames that could lead to a powerful explosion.

Dig Carefully
Whenever a septic tank is located on a property that has underground electrical lines, all digging procedures must be implemented carefully. If a line that runs over a septic system is damaged with a shovel, the metal portion of the tool could cause an electrical shock when sewer water soaks the soil.

Handle Emergencies Properly
If someone fall into a septic tank, no one who doesn’t have proper training should try to implement rescue procedures. In order to rescue someone safely, multiple tools will be needed, such as a harness and a professional-grade mask. The best way to resolve an emergency situation is by calling a crew that specializes in septic tank emergencies.