Septic Tank Hazards and Safety Concerns
Septic Tanks are used to hold sewage and wastewater from homes that do not have a city sewer system. There are several Safety Hazards and Concerns that property owners must be aware of. As a MN Licensed Septic Inspector, Custom Septic, Inc. (CSI) is well aware of the dangers of working around a septic tank. Hazards include things like Methane Gas Explosion or Asphyxiation, Harmful Bacteria, Collapse, Faulty Manhole Covers that allow someone to fall into the sewer filled septic tank. Bad Odors similar to rotten eggs are an indicator that Sewer Gas may be present. Regular Inspections and routine maintenance done by a Licensed Septic Contractor can find problems before propety damage, injury or loss of life happens due to a poorly working or damaged septic system.
What is Sewer Gas?
Sewer Gas from a sewage treatment system, including home septic systems, can be lethal. It contains both Toxic and Non-toxic Gases. Hydrogen Sulfide and Ammonia are highly toxic components found in sewer gases. Other components include Methane Gas, Sulfur Dioxide, Nitrous Oxide and Carbon Dioxide. Many septic tanks also include Chlorine Bleach and Solvents.
Dangers of Sewer Gas
People can be exposed to Toxic Sewer Gas through basement floor drains, blocked roof vents, and possibly through cracks in the foundation. MN homeowners can run water down into drains to keep them from drying out. Also, check for a blocked, rooftop sewer vent. Keep it clear of leaves, bird nests or other debris that can cause a blockage in the pipe.
Symptoms of Sewer Gas Exposure include the following:
- Eye Irritation
- Respiratory Tract Irritation
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nervousness
- Loss of Consciousness
- Death
Hazards of Working Around Septic Tanks
Custom Septic, Inc. (CSI) has been in the sewage treatment business for more than 19 years. As trained professionals we know how to take all necessary safety precautions when with Septic Tanks. It can be very dangerous for someone that does not know what to watch out for and how to avoid hazards including Sewer Gas and Methane Gas. Falling into a septic tank can be fatal, so safety is a major concern. Below, are some Hazards that MN Licensed Septic Contractors have to be aware of when Working Around Septic Tanks.
- Cave-in or Collapse of an old, neglected septic tank
- Methane Gas that can ignite and cause an explosion
- Broken, Faulty or Missing Manhole Covers
- Illness or Disease from contact with harmful bacteria
- Toxic Sewer Gas that can make you ill or cause you to pass out
Minnesota Licensed Septic Inspector
Contact Custom Septic, Inc. (CSI) if you suspect problems with your Sewage Treatment System. We are Minnesota Licensed Septic Inspectors with almost 20 years of experience with onsite sewer systems that usually have a Septic Tank. Our years of experience and extensive training have given us a healthy respect for Hazards of working around septic tanks. We understand the Dangers of Sewer Gas and the need for keeping septic tanks well maintained.
Give CSI a call for Septic Inspections and Septic Repairs to keep your family safe. Contact Custom Septic, Inc. (CSI) for a Free Estimate at 763-218-4769. Serving the Twin Cities area and Northern Minnesota.
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