2. System Owners Requirements

Last Update: Thursday, January 12, 2006
Change: None - Original Post

Regulations require a valid Operation and Maintenance Agreement be maintained in perpetuity with qualified personnel. Furthermore, many local authorities have regulations pertaining to system monitoring (sampling or testing of the system) to insure proper performance.

IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SYSTEM OWNER TO COMPLY WITH ALL LOCAL AND STATE REGULATIONS!

A complete RSF operation and performance evaluation is to be conducted during each required maintenance visit. A system monitoring report is required to be submitted by the maintainer to the DEP and local authorities.

The RSF owner is responsible for the continuous proper operation and maintenance of the RSF and must:

1. For residential systems with no garbage disposal, pump the solids and scum in the septic tank at least once every three (3) years or as recommended by your service provider. If a garbage disposal is installed or the RSF serves a business or the system is experiencing heavy use, pump the solids and scum in the septic tank at least once every year.
2. Employ an approved pumper to remove the sludge from the septic tank when necessary. (Your maintenance professional will recommend necessary pumping)
3. Have regular preventive maintenance/system performance monitoring inspections conducted and any indicated service performed by a certified person.
4. Operate and maintain the RSF in accordance with state and local regulations and the RSF Operation and Owners Manual.
5. Protect the RSF area, including the reserve area from:
   • Cover by structures or impervious material;
   • Surface drainage;
   • Soil compaction, for example, vehicular traffic or livestock; and
   • Damage by soil removal or grade alteration.
6. Maintain the flow of sewage to the RSF at or below the approved design limits for both quantity and waste strength.
7. Direct drains, such as footing or roof drains and surface water away from the area where the RSF is located.

1. Use or introduction of strong bases, strong acids or organic solvents into the RSF for the purpose of system cleaning;
2. Use of a sewage system additive unless it is specifically approved by OMNI; and
3. Use of an RSF to dispose of waste components such as petroleum products, paints (including latex), solvents or pesticides.

Refer to the OMNI Operators and Owners Manual for more details.