Septic tank access cover/replacement

17 years ago

After reading a news report of a 3 year old who fell through a septic tank lid, which flipped and closed tight behind him, and drowned, I want to replace my own rusted septic lids. The lids are also at grade and can be seen in the yard.

I want to remove the concrete block risers from one tank and replace witha new lid directly over the access hole and bury. The other lid I need to remain at grade since I pump every month.

I found a product called tuf-tite that makes risers and plastic lids, but the shipping for the items is 30% the order cost.

But that is not my question, Can I buy concrete lids or do I need to pour my own? If I pour my own, how would I do that? How thick, what type of cocrete etc?

TIA

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Comments (3)

sdello
17 years ago
A couple of comments.
Not so long ago a toddler was killed as you described in MA (I don't know if this is the same incident you're referring to). Very tragic, but it should be noted that the cover was raised off the ground a good five inches and the toddler was climbing/jumping on it unsupervised. Further it was not seated properly and it was the support condition around the perimeter that allowed the round metal lid to just flip open, the toddler fell in, and the lid flopped closed.

Freak accident that I don't believe is a chronic problem.

That being said, concrete lids that I have seen fit into a tapered opening in the top slab. The lid is simarly sloped (wedge shaped) to fit into the taper. You can form a piece to cover the hole/fit in the opening and cat it yourself. I'd suggest looking up a local precast concrete manufacturer and asking if they have any stock item that would work. If not send them a sketch of what you want and have them give you a quote to make it. Remember concret is ~150 lbs./ cubic foot so it will need to be picked up or shipped which will add to the price.

Hope this helps
jamesbodell
Original Author
17 years ago
yes, that is the incident I am talking about. I have a 7 month old am not intersted in a repeat. Plus, my steel lids are rusting out, and I would like to bolt them down, and make them disapear. The mentioned incident is not my only incentive.

I will call a concrete yard and see what they have. I will also see if I can find a local dealer of the tuf-tite risers.
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wootoot
16 years ago
Hi,
I agree with you on the replacement. No need dor another accidental death.

Quick question. You mention that you pump once per month. Why is that, please explain?

Roger
Septic Tank Treatment Specialist
www.newtechbio.com

Here is a link that might be useful: septic tank treatment and maintenance