Nearly
everyone recognizes sewer main contractors have a filthy dirty job. Besides
performing work in a stinky and toxic environment, the physical labor is
demanding. To work in this field requires extensive training in procedures, as
well as local and federal regulations set forth by agencies such as the EPA and
OSHA.
The
work carried out by sewer main contractors can affect entire communities.
Public works projects are very complex and require services from engineers,
general contractors, project owners, and city planning officials.
Along
with installing sewer systems, contractors carry out a variety of other tasks.
A few of the more common duties include sewer video inspections; pipeline and
backwater valve cleanout; and septic tank conversion.
Contractors
utilize data collected from subsurface utility engineering SUE firms and design
engineers to understand the layout of the terrain. SUE offers a valuable
service that not only reduces construction
costs, but also lessens workplace accidents.
Originally
developed in the 1970s for the Department of Transportation, SUE is now
commonly used on construction projects that involve installing equipment
underground. SUE contractors use a variety of tools to produce three
dimensional images. Being able to locate pipes, utilities, and anything else
buried below the surface lets contractors know areas to avoid.
Planning
public sewer systems is an extremely elaborate process. Systems are needed to
get rid of raw sewage and take it to a facility where it's broken down into
biodegradable waste. After systems are installed they need to be maintained on
a regular basis to ensure pipes are free of defects or leaks. Damaged pipes can
bring about severe consequences including discharge of toxic compounds.
One
of the least complicated, yet critical element is sewer manholes. This system
component gives workers access to underground equipment for repairs and
maintenance. Manholes also supply a vent to release gasses that accumulate in subsurface
pipes.
There
are multiple elements that make up public
sewer systems. A main component is trunk pipes which are connected to
individual residences using branch pipes and laterals. Inceptors are used to
further expand the pipeline system throughout communities.
City
sewer systems use gravity to push sewage through pipelines. If systems are
positioned in low-lying areas then lift stations are installed to elevate
pipes. Lift stations are most often found along the coastline.
As
soon as sewage arrives at the treatment facility is begins an intensive three-stage
filtration procedure. Sewer water is first place in holding tanks used to
separate solids from lighter substances.
Next,
it undergoes micro-filtration treatments to remove micro-organisms and
biological matter. Finally, treated water undergoes a disinfection process
before it is released into waterways or used for irrigation or agricultural
purposes.
In
order for the filtration and water treatment process to begin requires
installing sewer systems capable of transporting sewage to facilities without
incident. Each component must work in harmony to ensure safe passage from
toilet to treatment plant.
Due
to the complex nature of this work it is best to retain services from qualified
sewer
main contractors. Seek out contractors who possess experience in the
specific type of job involved, along with firms that excel in construction
safety.
