This feature in Pumper reports noteworthy conversations that take place at the Pumper Discussion Forum, an online forum for industry professionals found at www.pumper.com. Pumper Discussion enables exchange of information and ideas on septic and drainfield installation and maintenance, trucks and equipment, portable sanitation, chemical and additives and much more. Information and advice in “Overheard Online” is offered in good faith by industry professionals. However, readers should consult in depth with appropriate industry sources before applying such advice to a specific business situation.

Question:

I currently have a spill plan in place per our state Department of Natural Resources requirements, but I’m looking to revise it and make it easier to understand. I’m wondering what type of information you have in your spill plans, if you have one in place for your business?

Answers:

The best way to avoid leaks and spills is by holding some vacuum in your tank. This makes it easy to locate an air leak at a valve or connection. And I have found when I explain to the DOT truck stop team that running my vacuum pump when the truck is stopped is company policy to protect the environment, it really cuts down on the time they spend looking at my trucks.

I would have the DNR representatives in your area noted on the spill plan. Also list other pumpers’ numbers in your area in case of a major spill.

I just had a surprise stop by the Wisconsin DNR. It was nothing big, they were just in the area, and they made a few comments about my spill plan. While it was OK, they would like to see more details in my spill plan. For example, listing what to do with an under 10-gallon spill, a 15-gallon spill and so on. Also they wanted in writing how I would clean up and contain the spill by size, what I would use for containment, the numbers for the DNR/DEQ spill hotline and the local DNR conservation officer and local DNR office and the health department. Basically, the more numbers the better. And, of course, the numbers of the other haulers in the area and when to call. And don’t forget 911 and when you would call 911. I got the impression they were looking for a short book a 5-year-old could pick up and follow if need be. Along with my assessment report, the DNR will be sending me a sample spill plan to look at.

Shedding more light on the septic tank

Question:

Who makes the best, brightest light/mirror for looking into septic tanks? My eyesight is getting worse and I need more light in the tank and a bigger mirror.

Answers:

A digital camera on a stick with the timer is the hot setup. Either that or lower your cellphone into the tank and take a picture. Once you get the hang of it, they turn out pretty good. Just don’t drop it!

At first I laughed, then thought about the camera setup, and it might not be a bad idea. Time to go to garage sales and buy a cheap one to try this. It isn’t much of an investment. Thanks for the idea.