Standard Operating Procedure for:
A.5
IDDE: Septic System Inspections
Purpose of SOP: Failed septic systems can adversely impact water quality.
This SOP provides a quick reference list to supervisors and field crews thal are conducting
an initial screening for failures in areas that are identified in the full IDDE program.
Always:
o
Refer potential septic system failures to the local Health Officer for enforcement.
Whenever Possible:
o
o
o
o
Never:
o
o
Screen high risk areas (older areas or areas near lakes or impaired waterbodies).
Look for indicators of failures, such as wet areas or disagreeable odors near the leach
field.
Document septic system inspections in a summary report for future reference.
Refer troublesome enforcement actions to NHDES.
Never enter private property without permission.
Never put yourself in danger.
Related Guidance:
® NHDES Health Officer's Manual
ENV-Ws 1000 Subdivision and Individual Sewage Disposal
System Design rules
A-9
48
Hic it Discharge Detection and Eimination Plan
48
