Lastname, Firstname 2004-06-22 2004-06-22 2005-06-30 Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Safety and Buildings Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Safety and Buildings, Commerce, Safety and Buildings, Comm, Credentials, Certifications, Buildings Codes, Registrations, Construction, Public Safety, Licenses, Permits, License application forms, Trades, Administrative codes, Regulations, Statutes, Administrative rules, Cities, City, Towns, County, Counties, Municipal, Ordinances, Hygiene, Hazardous, Diseases, Design, Engineering, Continuing education, Audits, Grants, POWTS, Private wastewater treatment systems, Septic field, Septic tanks, Sewage treatment, Sewage disposal, Accessibility, Accessible, Disability, Disabilities, Clean air, Clean water, Air quality, Public sector employees, Applications, Plan review, State, Bureau of Program Development, Bureau of Field Operations, Bureau of Integrated Services, Environmental assessments, Environmental impact statement, Soil erosion, Drinking water, Appliances, Plumbing Products, Fire prevention and protection, Firefighter safety, Fire Sprinklers, Rental unit energy efficiency, Rental weatherization, Commercial buildings, Forms, Publications, Plumbing, Inspection, Inspectors, Consultants, Waste disposal, Historic buildings, Occupational and industrial safety, Occupational health, One and two family dwellings, Houses, Housing, Homes, Multifamily dwellings, Mine Safety, Mining, Mines, Open pits, Quarries, Blasters, Plumbers, Electricians, Boilers, Wastewater, Elevators, Lighting, Energy, Mobile homes, Manufactured homes, Welding, Structural systems, Gas systems, HVAC, Refrigeration, Public swimming pools, Wisconsin Fund, Explosives, Amusement rides and attractions, Tramways lifts and tows, Government facts figures and statistics Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Safety and Buildings, Commerce, Safety and Buildings, Building, Wisconsin, Safety, Construction, License. Safety and Buildings Division - Wisconsin Plumbing Code Report articles, April 2000 Choose from this list of articles especially edited for the WebSite or scroll down: 1. Tests for drinking water from private wells; 2. UW POWTS Continuing Education; 3. It's April, 2000. Did you renew your plumbing license or registration?; 4. New rules for vehicle service building catch basins; 5. Event Calendar; 6. Some details of Subchapters I, II and III of the revised Comm 83, Wisconsin's POWTS Code; 7. Excerpts taken from the in-ground soil absorption component manual.   1. Tests for drinking water from private wells
May 8-13, 2000 is national Drinking Water Week When should I test my well water?
There are several tests that, if done periodically, can help owners of private wells determine whether they have safe, clean drinking water. State well construction codes require new wells be tested before use. Periodic testing will confirm the quality of your well water. You should consider testing anytime you notice a change in odor or taste. Note: If you have any questions regarding how to request a water test or need assistance interpreting the results of a test, contact a water supply specialist at a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office. The two most important types of well tests, according to the DNR, are for bacteria and nitrate. Bacteria
Total coliform bacteria are microorganisms found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, as well as in soil, on vegetation, and in surface water runoff. The presence of total coliform bacteria in a water supply indicates that there may be other bacteria present, but only 1 out of 10 Wisconsin private wells with total coliforms also test positive for E. coli. Unlike total coliforms, E. coli are specific to the lower intestines of warm-blooded animals, and indicate fecal contamination. Bacteria washed into the ground by rain or melting snow are usually filtered out as water percolates through the soil. However, poorly-constructed or unsealed wells, fractured rock outcroppings, sinkholes, and quarries may provide a path for bacteria to enter groundwater. Drinking water drawn from private wells should be tested for the presence of bacteria at least once a year, or any time there is a change in taste, odor, color, or appearance of the well water. Iron and sulfur bacteria may also be present in well water. Although not a health threat, these two types of bacteria can make water smell and taste bad, and plug or corrode plumbing equipment. The state Laboratory of Hygiene offers a test to detect iron bacteria. Some private laboratories also test for iron or sulfur bacteria. Nitrate
Although nitrate is found naturally in many types of food, high levels in drinking water have been associated with illness in infants less than six months of age. The incidence of this problem in Wisconsin is rare. This problem generally does not affect older children or adults. Sources of nitrate include fertilizer infiltration in agricultural areas, animal feedlots, sewage absorption fields, municipal and industrial wastewater, urban drainage, and decaying plant debris. Underground soil and bedrock structure and the direction of groundwater flow influence when and where nitrate is found. In some areas, nitrate contamination may be associated with other groundwater contaminants. A nitrate test is recommended by the DNR for all wells, and especially for wells serving infants under six months of age. The state Laboratory of Hygiene, as well as private laboratories certified by DNR, can test water for the presence of nitrate. If the levels are over 10 mg/l (milligrams per liter or parts per million expressed as "N"), the water should not be fed to infants under six months of age, or used to prepare formula. Nitrate is not believed to be a health concern for a pregnant woman or her fetus. Radon Gas
Radon gas is a cancer-causing agent that occurs naturally in the environment and is present to some degree in all soil and groundwater. Long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon gas will increase the risk for contracting lung cancer. The cancer risk from radon gas found in homes usually far exceeds the cancer risk associated with contaminated groundwater. Persons concerned about reducing cancer risks should first evaluate their exposure to radon gas in their home. Before testing water for radon gas, you should sample the air in your home. Air sampling kits are available and easy to use. If your home has a high level of radon in the air, venting and other alternatives are more economically efficient for reducing radon levels and should be considered before water testing or treatment. For a list of federal Environmental Protection Agency-certified radon testing laboratories, and a recommendation on the type of test to use, call the state Radiation Protection Unit at 608-266-1120. Lead
Lead is a toxic metal which has been used in construction of some household plumbing systems in Wisconsin. Excessive levels of lead can damage the brain, kidneys, nervous system, red blood cells, and the reproductive system. It is a greater hazard to young children, infants, and fetuses than to adults. If you live in a home constructed before 1985, you are more likely to have a lead problem. The state Laboratory of Hygiene and private laboratories certified by DNR can test water for the presence of lead. It is recommended to use a laboratory that can detect lead in drinking water at five parts per billion or less. Atrazine and other pesticides
Fourteen types of pesticides (insecticides and herbicides) have been found in Wisconsin water supplies. Atrazine, a popular herbicide used widely to control weeds in corn, is by far the most frequently detected pesticide. Atrazine is considered a possible cancer-causing substance by the federal EPA. In areas where corn has been planted, any wells contaminated with pesticides almost always contain some level of atrazine, thus making the test for atrazine the best indicator of pesticide contamination. An atrazine test is readily available and inexpensive. Have your well tested for atrazine at least once if you live in an area of atrazine use, especially if your well has elevated nitrate levels, or the soils are not clayey. If atrazine has not been used in the area of your well, and other pesticides have been used or spilled, you may wish to test for the other types of pesticides used in your area. The state Laboratory of Hygiene offers an inexpensive test for atrazine. Call 800-442-4618 for more information. Private laboratories certified by DNR will also test drinking water for the presence of atrazine and other pesticides. Radium
Radium is a naturally-occurring radioactive metal which is usually found at low levels in soil, rock, water, and plants. Radium levels can sometimes exceed the drinking water standard in eastern and west-central Wisconsin, where wells obtain water from sandstone formations, and in a few areas of north-central Wisconsin where wells are constructed in granite. There is no immediate health risk from drinking water contaminated with levels of radium found in Wisconsin groundwater, but use of water with high radium over a lifetime can increase the risk for contracting bone cancer. You can contact your local DNR drinking water specialist for guidance on having your water tested for radium. VOCs
Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) are widely used as cleaning and liquefying agents in fuels, paints, degreasers, solvents, polishes, cosmetics, and cleaning solutions. If spilled or dumped on the ground, these substances can seep into underground drinking water supplies. In high doses, VOCs can harm the kidneys, liver, and central nervous system. VOCs also cause cancer and reproductive system problems. Wells near underground gas tanks and old landfills may to be contaminated with these substances. Private laboratories certified by DNR can test drinking water for the presence of VOCs. Get your water tested for VOCs if you are aware of a spill or leak in your area, or if you notice a solvent or fuel taste or odor. Taste and odor
Often taste and odor problems are caused by tannins, sulfur, sulfide bacteria, iron, or iron bacteria. Tests by private laboratories can be done to evaluate these non-health-related water quality problems. However, a change in taste, odor, or appearance could be indicative of a more serious contamination problem and the need for more testing. Testing laboratories
The DNR maintains a list of laboratories certified to test drinking water for bacteria and other contaminants. You can also look in the yellow pages of the phone book in larger cities under "Laboratories-Testing" or "Chemists-Analytical." Look for laboratories that indicate "Water Analysis." Ask the laboratory if they are certified by the DNR or Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services for the type of test you are requesting. Certification helps to ensure that the test results will be accurate. You can obtain a list of certified labs from the DNR or the Central Wisconsin Groundwater Center in Stevens Point, 715-346-4270. More information on specific contaminants
For more information contact your county extension, sanitary, zoning, or health department offices; or a licensed plumber, well drillers, or pump installers, or visit the DNR website, http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/drlbro.htm.   2. UW POWTS Continuing Education
Courses for CST, MP, MPRS, JP, JPRS and POWTS Inspectors are scheduled for May 2000 May 23, Monroe County: Soil Profile Description, 4 credit hours, a.m. and p.m. sessions, Instructor Jerry Tyler, et al., $48, (outdoor soil pits) Soil Profile Description, 4 credit hours, a.m and p.m. sessions, Instructor Jerry Tyler et al, $48, (outdoor soil pits) Design and Update of Wisconsin Mound and At-Grade Systems, 3.5 credit hours, morning session, Jim Converse, $35 "New Tech" Systems - Inspection, Monitoring and Maintenance, 3 credit hours, afternoon session, Jim Converse, $35 For registration or additional information, contact Joyce McConnell or Jim Peterson at UW-Madison Environmental. Resources Center, 608 262-0020; FAX 262-2031; email jopeters@facstaff.wisc.edu,1450 Linden Drive, Madison, 53706-1562 Check Small Scale Wastewater Management Program website: http://www.wisc.edu/sswmp/ for additional educational opportunities.   3. It's April, 2000. Did you renew your plumbing license or registration?
Most plumbing credentials administered by the Safety and Buildings Division expire on March 31, two years after issuance. Are you sure of whether you were supposed to renew this year, by now? It's easy to tell; look at your card. It clearly says when your license or registration expires. If you need to discuss your situation, contact the S&B Credentialing Unit, 608-261-8500, madisoncred@commerce.state.wi.us. Lists of people holding some categories of S&B credentials are being made available on the S&B WebSite. Check the "Credentials" link on the S&B Home Page, http://www.commerce.state.wi.us/SB/SB-HomePage.html   4. New rules for vehicle service building catch basins
By Jerry Rodenberg, DNR Business Sector Specialist, MP 247269 The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently adopted federal rules for specific industrial wastewater discharges to non-residential Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS). EPA categorizes POWTS which discharge to the subsurface as Class V injection wells. This federal rule does not apply to a system where the final disposal of the wastewater is to a holding tank. EPA promulgated these rules under authority of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. The regulations are part of the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program which, in Wisconsin, is administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), rather than the EPA directly. One part of the regulation specifically applies to buildings that are used to maintain or repair motorized vehicles. The new regulatory requirements include any facility that does vehicular repair work, for example, automotive service stations, new or used car dealerships, auto body repair shops, muffler shops, radiator repair shops, and fleet operations. Additionally, servicing lawn and garden equipment, boat motors, motorized aircraft, farm tractors, bulldozers, or other similar motorized equipment may also be affected by EPA's rule. New Vehicle Service Facilities
Beginning on April 5, 2000, newly-constructed non-residential facilities that maintain or repair motorized vehicles are not allowed to discharge certain wastewater to a POWTS. This ban also includes existing commercial facilities that had been used for purposes other than maintaining or repairing motorized vehicles, but which now plan to do so. The ban includes any area where a fluid used or generated during service work is stored or collected. Alternatives to connecting to an onsite system include connecting to a holding tank (separately or commingled with sanitary waste, both types will have to be transported to a treatment plant), connecting to a public sanitary sewer, or eliminating a discharge altogether. Connection of a service-area floor drain, where maintenance or repair of motorized vehicles occurs, to any wastewater plumbing system that discharges into a POWTS employing subsurface discharge, is no longer allowed. Existing Vehicle Service Facilities
Motor vehicle service facilities with existing floor drains connected to a POWTS that includes a soil absorption component that were constructed prior to April 5, 2000 will have from five to seven years to come into compliance with this new rule. Current options being considered for these systems include sealing shut the floor drains to eliminate any discharge, connecting to a holding tank or public sanitary sewer, or obtaining a discharge permit from the DNR, if it is shown that compliance can be achieved by implementing waste management plans to prevent any harmful pollutants from entering the disposal system. For more information, contact: Jim Kinney, Wastewater Specialist, DNR Bureau of Watershed Management, 608-266-0232, kinnej@dnr.state.wi.us; or Jerry Rodenberg, Business Sector Specialist, DNR Bureau of Cooperative Environmental Assistance, 608-266-7715, rodenj@dnr.state.wi.us.   5. Event Calendar
Contact the listed Code Consultant for information on the meeting agendas, locations, etc. If you have questions concerning technicalities of the codes which are the subjects of the meetings, contact consultants and reviewers listed on page two of this WPCR. April 27, 2000,Thursday - Fire Safety Code Council - 9 a.m. -2 p.m. - Thompson Center - First floor Conference Rm., 201 W Washington Ave., Madison - Duane Hubeler, 608-266-1390, dhubeler@commerce.state.wi.us May 2, 2000, Tuesday - Automatic Fire Sprinkler Council - 9:30 a.m. - Thompson Center - First floor Conference Rm., 201 W Washington Ave., Madison - Ron Acker, 608-267-7907, racker@commerce.state.wi.us May 3, 2000, Wednesday - Uniform Dwelling Code Council - 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. -Wisconsin Builders Association, 4868 High Crossing Blvd, Madison - Duane Hubeler, 608-266-1390, dhubeler@commerce.state.wi.us May 11, 2000, Thursday - Commercial Building Code Council - 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. - UW-Madison Agricultural Research Station, 8502 Mineral Point Road, Verona - Sam Rockweiler, 608-266-0797, srockweiler@commerce.state.wi.us May 24, 2000, Wednesday - IBC Energy Code Council - 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Thompson Center, Rm. 3B, 201 W Washington Ave., Madison - Diane Meredith, 608-266-8982, dmeredith@commerce.state.wi.us   6. Some details of Subchapters I, II and III of the revised Comm 83, Wisconsin's POWTS Code
By Roman Kaminski, S&B POWTS Program Manager, 715-345-5334, rkaminski@commerce.state.wi.us Subchapter I - Scope and Application. This subchapter sets the framework for the entire code with a statement that the purpose of the code is to "establish minimum standards and criteria for the design, installation, inspection and management of a private onsite wastewater treatment system, POWTS, so that the system is safe and will protect public health and the waters of the state." The subchapter also describes the scope of the code. In other words, that this code applies specifically to situations where domestic wastewater is not conveyed to a wastewater treatment plant regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, but instead is directed to a POWTS that treats and disperses the wastewater to the subsurface, or where a holding tank is used as part of the POWTS. Some of the highlights of Subchapter I include the provision that this code, with certain specifically identified exclusions, does not apply retroactively to previously-installed systems or those for which a sanitary permit had been issued. There is a provision stating that for systems installed prior to 12/01/69, if the infiltrative surface is located two feet or more above groundwater or bedrock, the system shall be considered to discharge final effluent that is not sewage, unless proven otherwise. The subsection on implementation includes two tables that will be important as the code is implemented. Table 83.04-1 contains a list of "restricted technologies." These are POWTS technologies that cannot be used unless the installer of the technology and the inspector from the county, have received acceptable training. Another table, 83.04-2 contains a list of technologies that can be subject to local delay by governmental units if they adopt an ordinance with that stipulation. However, it is important to remember that this delay or limit can only be for technologies that would serve new development. The maximum delay period allowed will be until January 1, 2003. New development is defined as property without an existing habitable building. It was unclear at the time this article was written how many counties would opt for some form of delay for use of some of the technologies. As the date for implementation of the code nears, I suggest you contact the county(s) that you work in to determine if they will be invoking the delay option. Subchapter II - Administration and Enforcement. This subchapter focuses on the day to day processes involved at both the state and county level. It includes a subsection that describes in some detail minimum requirements for plan review, permit issuance, and inspection. Much of the code language regarding sanitary permit issuance reflects back to the responsibilities outlined in chapter 145, Wis. Stats. The intent is to issue a state sanitary permit card for the installation, addition, or replacement of a POWTS component. Counties are allowed to issue other types of permits for activities such as reconnections or minor repairs. Many counties have begun to amend their ordinances to add these types of permits. Make sure you check with the county where you will be working to determine what type of permit may be needed. A subsection of Subchapter II on plan review processes includes tables identifying where certain POWTS designs must be submitted for review. There are expanded opportunities for counties to obtain "agent plan review status," if they so desire. This subchapter also includes a provision that maintenance requirements for proposed technologies have to be recorded with the deed for the property, if evaluating or monitoring of any part of the system is required in the approved management/maintenance plan at an interval of 12 months of less and/or if servicing or maintaining is required in the approved management/maintenance plan at an interval of 12 months or less. The jurisdictional agreement between the Department of Safety and Professional Services, of which the Safety and Buildings Division is part, and the DNR, based on design flow, is in specific code language in this subchapter There is also specific code language detailing the petition for variance and experiment processes that may be followed. And, this code subchapter includes details of the "range of responses" available to the Commerce Department in the event a concern is raised about issues surrounding the preventative action limits and enforcement standards found in N(atural) R(esources) 140, Wis. Adm. Code. Subchapter III - General Requirements. The purpose of this subchapter is to establish parameters for the types of POWTS that may be used and how they may be used. This subchapter includes specific code language relating to what POWTS-related activities are prohibited or may be limited. For example, a subsection states that " the introduction of wastewater or substances or concentrations to a POWTS… that results in exceeding the enforcement standards and preventive action limits in NR 140 Tables 1 and 2 at the point of standards application shall be prohibited." POWTS technologies that may be prohibited or limited by a municipality are identified. A municipality may by ordinance prohibit or limit holding tanks, constructed wetlands, and evapotranspiration beds. Many counties and towns are in the early stages of amending their ordinances to address these issues. Some counties report they intend to allow holding tanks only as a system of last resort, while a couple of others are indicating they may enumerate the specific circumstances under which they would allow a holding tank system, even though the site could support a soil dispersal system. In summary, it is important to remind everyone that while the revised code contains specific requirements that must be applied uniformly across the state, it also was designed to recognize the unique needs that individual governmental units may have when it comes to the administrative and enforcement processes they choose to employ. Many of these local administrative functions, whether to delay use of certain technologies, to issue other types of permits, to require specific inspections, or to ban or to limit specific technologies can only be done by ordinance. However, the point is that I expect the counties to take advantage of the ability to formalize the processes they may currently have in place and to add those permitted under the revised code. So, it will be to an installer's advantage to stay in contact with the county(s) that they work in, so they are aware of what changes, if any, they will need to make in the way they conduct their POWTS-related business.   7. Excerpts taken from the in-ground soil absorption component manual. PDF version (32 KB).
They include the specification tables that are the basis for any individual design being contemplated, as well as the operation, maintenance, and monitoring requirements for this type of POWTS component. Also included is a basic design example and a plan submittal checklist that details what information must be provided by the designer/installer. I. Introduction and Specifications
This Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) component manual provides design, construction, inspection, operation, and maintenance specifications for an in-ground soil absorption component. However, these items must accompany a properly prepared and reviewed plan acceptable to the governing unit to help provide a system that can be installed and function properly. Violations of this manual constitute a violation of chs. Comm 83 and 84, Wis. Adm. Code. The in-ground soil absorption component must receive influent flows and loads less than or equal to those specified in Table 1. When designed, installed and maintained in accordance with this manual, the in-ground soil absorption component provides treatment and dispersal of domestic wastewater in conformance with ch. Comm 83 of the Wis. Adm. Code. Final effluent characteristics will comply with s. Comm 83.43 (8) and 83.44 (2), Wis. Adm. Code when inputs are within the range specified in Tables 1 to 3. Note: Detailed plans and specifications must be developed and submitted for reviewed and approved by the governing unit having authority over the plan for the installation. Also, a Sanitary Permit must be obtained from the department or governmental unit having jurisdiction. See Section XII for more details.

Table 1INFLUENT FLOWS AND LOADS
Design Wastewater flow (DWF)	£ 5000 gal/day
Monthly average value of Fats, Oil and Grease (FOG)	£ 30 mg/L
Monthly average value of five day Biochemical Oxygen demand (BOD5)	£ 220 mg/L
Monthly average value of Total Suspended Solids (TSS)	£ 150 mg/L
Volume of a single dose	³ 5 times the void volume of the distribution lateral(s) when the system uses pressure distribution
Design wastewater flow (DWF) from one- or two-family dwellings	³ 150 gal/day/bedroom
Design wastewater flow (DWF) from public facilities	³ 150% of estimated wastewater flow in accordance with Table 4 of this manual or s. Comm 83.43 (6), Wis. Adm. Code
Wastewater particle size	£ 1/8 inch
Distribution cell area per orifice when pressurized distribution is used	£ 6 ft2

Table 2 SIZE AND ORIENTATION
Minimum area of distribution cell	³ Design wastewater flow ¸ soil application rate for the most restrictive soil horizon at the infiltrative surface. Soil application rates are listed in s. Comm 83 Tables 83.44-1 or-2, Wis. Adm. Code.
Distribution cell width	³ 1 foot
Distribution cell width	£ 6 feet
Distribution cell depth	³ 9 inches
Table 2 SIZE AND ORIENTATION (cont.)
Depth of cover over distribution cell	³ 12 inches
Depth of cover over distribution cell measured from original grade	³ 0 inches below original grade
Area of distribution cell	³ DWF ¸ effluent application rate of the in situ soil at the infiltrative surface

Table 3 OTHER SPECIFICATIONS
Slope of original grade	£ 25% in area of component
Vertical separation between distribution cell and seasonal saturation defined by redoximorphic features, groundwater, or bedrock	³ Equal to depth required by s. Comm 83 Table 83.44-3, Wis. Adm. Code
Distance between bottom of distribution lateral and in situ soil when aggregate is used	³ 6 inches
Distance between top of distribution lateral and geotextile fabric when aggregate is used	³ 2 inches
Distribution cell aggregate material	Meets requirements of s. Comm 84.30 (6) (i), Wis. Adm. Code for stone aggregate
Leaching chamber	Meets requirements of s. Comm 84.30 (6) (h), Wis. Adm. Code.
Length of distribution pipe for components using aggregate and gravity flow distribution	³ Equal to length of distribution cell minus 6 feet
Distance between distribution lateral end orifice and end of distribution cell for components using aggregate and gravity flow distribution	£ 3 feet

Table 3 OTHER SPECIFICATIONS (cont.)
Distribution network for pressurized distribution systems Note: Pressure distribution is required when soils or effluent meets parameters of s. 83.44 (5), Wis. Adm. Code.	By use of pressure distribution network conforming with the sizing methods of either Small Scale Waste Management Project publication 9.6, entitled "Design of Pressure Distribution Networks for Septic Tank - Soil Absorption Systems" or Dept. of Commerce publication SBD-10573-P, entitled Pressure Distribution Component Manual for Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems"
Piping material	Meets requirements of s. Comm 84.30 (2), Wis. Adm. Code for its intended use
Slope of gravity flow perforated distribution lateral piping	£ 4 inches per 100 feet away from distribution boxes, drop boxes or header
Fabric cover over distribution cell when aggregate is used	Geotextile fabric meeting s. Comm 84.30 (6) (g), Wis. Adm. Code
Horizontal separation between distribution cells	³ 3 ft.
Bottom of distribution cell	Level
Table 3 OTHER SPECIFICATIONS (cont.)
Number of observation pipes per distribution cell	³ Two extending from distribution cell infiltrative surface to finished grade
Cover material	Soil that will promote plant growth
Erosion and frost protection	Sodded or seeded and mulched
Installation inspection	In accordance with ch. Comm 83, Wis. Adm. Code
Management	In accordance with ch. Comm 83, Wis. Adm. Code and this manual

VIII. Operation, Maintenance, and Performance Monitoring
A. The component owner is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the component. The county, department or POWTS service contractor may make periodic inspections of the components, checking for surface discharge, treated effluent levels, etc.The owner or owner's agent is required to submit necessary maintenance reports to the appropriate jurisdiction and/or the department. B. Design approval and site inspections before, during, and after the construction are accomplished by the county or other appropriate jurisdictions in accordance to ch. Comm 83, Wis. Adm. Code. C. Routine and preventative maintenance aspects:
1. Treatment and distribution tanks are to be inspected routinely and maintained when necessary in accordance with their approvals.
2.Inspections of the in-ground soil absorption component performance are required at least once every three years. These inspections include checking the liquid levels in the observation pipes and examination for any seepage on to the ground surface.
3. Winter traffic on the in-ground soil absorption component is not permitted to avoid frost penetration and to minimize compaction.
4. A good water conservation plan within the house or establishment will help assure that the in-ground soil absorption component will not be overloaded. D. User's Manual: A user's manual is to accompany the component. The manual is to contain the following as a minimum:
1. Diagrams of all component components and their location. This should include the location of the reserve area, if one is provided.
2. Names and phone numbers of local health authority, component manufacturer or POWTS service contractor to be contacted in the event of component failure or malfunction.
3. Information on the periodic maintenance of the component, including electrical/mechanical components.
4. What activities can or cannot occur on the reserve area, if one is provided.
5. Notice that the dose chamber, if one is utilized, may fill due to flow continuing during pump malfunction or power outages. One large dose when the power comes on or when the pump is repaired may cause the conventional soil absorption component to have problems. In this situation, the pump chamber should be pumped by a licensed pumper before pump cycling begins or other measures shall be used to dose the conventional soil absorption component with only the proper amount of influent. This may include manual operation of the pump controls until such time the pump chamber has reached its normal level. E. Performance monitoring must be performed on components installed under this manual.
1. The frequency of monitoring must be:
a. At least once every three years following installation , and
b. At time of a problem, complaint, or failure.
2. The minimum criteria addressed in performance monitoring of components are:
a. Type of use,
b. Age of component,
c. Type of component, dosed or gravity feed,
d. Nuisance factors, such as odors or user complaints,
e. Mechanical malfunction within the component including problems with valves or other mechanical or plumbing components,
f. Material fatigue or failure, including durability or corrosion as related to construction or structural design,
g. Neglect or improper use, such as overloading the design rate, poor maintenance of vegetative cover, inappropriate cover over the component, or inappropriate activity over the component,
h. Pretreatment component maintenance, including dosing frequency, structural integrity, groundwater intrusion or improper sizing,
i. Pump or siphon chamber maintenance, including improper maintenance, infiltration, structural problems, or improper sizing,
j. Ponding in distribution cell, prior to the pump cycle, is evidence of development of a clogging mat or reduced infiltration rates,
k. Siphon or pump malfunction including dosing volume problems, breakdown, burnout, or cycling problems, and
l. Overflow/seepage problems, as shown by evident or confirmed sewage effluent, including backup. 3. Reports are to be submitted in accordance to ch. Comm 83, Wis. Adm. Code. EXAMPLE IN-GROUND WORKSHEET A. SITE CONDITIONS
Evaluate the site and soils report for the following:
a. Surface water movement.
b. Measure elevations and distances on the site so that slope, contours and available areas can be determined.
c. Description of several soil profiles where the system will be located.
d. Determine the limiting conditions such as bedrock, high groundwater level, soil permeability, and setbacks. Slope - ___% Occupancy: One- or Two-family Dwelling, # of bedrooms - _4 Public facility ____ Depth to limiting factor - 60 inches In situ soil application rate used - 0.8 gal/ft²/day B. DESIGN WASTEWATER FLOW (DWF) One- or Two-family Dwelling. DWF = 150 gal/day/bedroom x # of bedrooms = 150 gal/day/bedroom x 4 # of bedrooms = 600 gal/day Public Facility. DWF = Sum of each wastewater flow per source per day x 1.5 = gal/day x 1.5 = gal/day C. WIDTH AND LENGTH OF THE DISTRIBUTION CELL. 1. Determine the design loading rate (DLR) for the site.
From Table 83.44-1 or-2, Wis. Adm. Code, select the effluent application rate for the most restrictive soil horizon in contact with the distribution cell that matches the soil conditions. The effluent application rate selected from Table 83.44-1 or-2, Wis. Adm. Code, is the design loading rate (DLR) for the site. DLR = 0.8 gpd/ft² 2. Determine the distribution cell area.
Calculate the distribution cell area by dividing the daily design wastewater flow (DWF) by the design loading rate (DLR).
Distribution cell area = DWF ¸ DLR
Distribution cell area = 600 gpd ¸ 0.8 gpd/ft²
Distribution cell area = 750 ft² 3. Select a width (A) for the distribution cell. The width of the distribution cell can not exceed 6 feet.
A = 6 ft 4. Determine the distribution cell length.
Calculate the distribution cell length (B) by dividing the required distribution area by the distribution cell width (A).
B = Distribution cell area ¸ A
B = 750 ft² ¸ 6 ft
B = 125 ft IX. PLAN SUBMITTAL AND INSTALLATION INSPECTION A. Plan Submittal
In order to install a system correctly, it is important to develop plans that will be used to install the system correctly the first time. The following checklist may be used when preparing plans for review. The checklist is intended to be a general guide. Conformance to the list is not a guarantee of plan approval. Additional information may be needed or requested to address unusual or unique characteristics of a particular project. Contact the reviewing agent for specific plan submittal requirements, which the agency may require that are different than the list included in this manual. General Submittal Information
1. Photocopies of soil reports forms, plans, and other documents are acceptable. However, an original signature is required on certain documents.
2. Submittal of additional information requested during plan review or and questions concerning a specific plan must be referenced to the Plan Identification indicator assigned to that plan by the reviewing agency.
3. Plans or documents must be permanent copies or originals. Forms and Fees
1. Application form for submittal, provided by reviewing agency along with proper fees set by reviewing agent.
2. Onsite verification report signed by the county or appropriated state official. Soils information
1. Complete Soils and Site Evaluation Report (form # SBD-8330) for each backhoe pit described; signed and dated by a certified soil tester, with license number.
2. Separate sheet showing the location of all borings. The location of all borings and backhoe pits must be able to be identified on the plot plan. Documentation
1. Architects, engineers or designers must sign, seal and date each page of the submittal or provide an index page, which is signed, sealed and dated.
2. Master Plumbers must sign, date and include their license number on each page of the submittal or provide an index page, which is signed, sealed and dated.
3. Three completed sets of plans and specifications (clear, permanent and legible); submittals must be on paper measuring at least 8-1/2 by 11 inches. Plot Plan
1. Dimensioned plans or plans drawn to scale (scale indicated on plans) with parcel size or all property boundaries clearly marked.
2. Slope directions and percent in system area.
3. Benchmark and north arrow.
4. Setbacks indicated as per appropriate code.
5. Two-foot contours to 25ft. on all sides of system area or include elevations at all four corners of proposed system.
6. Location information; legal description of parcel must be noted.
7. Location of any nearby existing system or well. Plan View
1. Dimensions for distribution cell(s).
2. Location of and observation pipes.
3. Pipe lateral layout, which must include the number of laterals, pipe material, diameter and length; and number, location and size of orifices.
4. Distribution boxes, drop boxes, manifold and force main locations, with materials, length and diameter of all pipes. Cross Section of System
1. Lateral elevation, position of observation pipes, dimensions and depths of aggregate, and type of cover material such as geotextile fabric, and depth, if applicable.
2. Dimensions and depths of aggregate.
3. Minimum and maximum depths of piping below original and final grades.
4. Minimum and maximum depths of the excavation from original grade. System Sizing
1. For one- and two-family dwellings the number of bedrooms must be included.
2. For public buildings, the sizing calculations must be included. Tank and Pump / Siphon Information
1. All construction details for site-constructed tanks.
2. Size and manufacturer information for prefabricated tanks.
3. Notation of pump or siphon model, pump performance curve, friction loss for force main and calculation for total dynamic head.
4. Cross section of tank / chamber to include storage volumes; connections for piping, vents, and electricity; pump "off" setting; dosing cycle and volume; and location of vent and manhole.
5. Cross section of two compartments tanks or tanks installed in a series must include information listed above. B. Inspections
Inspection shall be made in accordance with ch. 145.20, Wis. Stats and s. Comm 83.26, Wis. Adm. Code. The inspection form on the following two pages may be used. The inspection of the system installation and/or plans is to verify that the system at least conforms to specifications listed in Tables 1 - 3 of this manual. Link to this page's manager, Todd Taylor, Todd.Taylor@Wisconsin.gov The Department of Safety and Professional Services Safety and Buildings Division is an equal opportunity service provider and employer. If you need assistance to access services or need material in an alternate format, please contact us, 608-266-3151, TTY 608-264-8777, or Todd.Taylor@Wisconsin.gov.