Septic trucks are a type of heavy-duty vehicle designed to collect, transport and dispose of the refuse from septic tanks. While the equipment is able to handle this dirty job, it does not mean that the vehicle itself must remain dirty after a job. Cleaning should be at the top of a list of things that need to be performed at the end of every vacuum truck shift.

Benefits

Despite the fact that this equipment is designed to perform a messy job, keeping the vehicle cleansed is something that an operator should not overlook. Following are several benefits in performing this important chore:

• Prevent Premature Deterioration - Septic trucks deal with dirty fluids which have potentially caustic properties. Although components of these vehicles, such as the storage tanks and the vacuum units, are protected with a layer of paint or made of stainless steel, continuous exposure to these caustic elements will cause damage. To prevent premature deterioration and increase the service life of these vehicles, it is important to clean the components after use. Daily flushing will reduce the exposure to caustic fluids and extend the life of the equipment.

• Positive Image - Although the services that are performed by this equipment deal with unclean material, the vehicle itself does not have to conform to its application. A neat and tidy truck can take away the stigma associated with septic cleaning services and present a positive image to clients.

• Better Work Atmosphere - The physical appearance of a septic truck can even affect the attitude of the employees who use the vehicle. Driving a clean and well-maintained vehicle can help boost the morale of the workers.

• Lower Health Risk - Waste water contains pathogenic organisms which have the potential to cause disease if they come in contact with humans. Regular cleaning of the equipment will reduce the likelihood of septic truck operators coming in contact with contaminated fluids and reduce the risk of acquiring a disease.

Tips

There are many ways in which to keep this hard-working vehicle clean other than just washing the exterior. Following are some helpful hints to help in a total physical improvement process:

• Storage Tank - Debris that has been collected by these vehicles is stored directly in its storage tank until that receptacle is drained at a treatment facility. This tends to leave the inside of the tank full of dirt even after it has been drained. To protect the inside of the tank from rusting, it is important to remove all the remaining debris. A high-pressure water gun can be used to remove the stubborn debris that sticks to the side of the tank. The same procedure should be performed on the sludge pump, which is usually located at the rear of the truck.

• Air and Water Separator Cyclone - Another important part of the truck that should be regularly cleaned is the air and water separator cyclone. Solid debris usually collects at the bottom plug of the cyclone during operation and should be removed manually.

• Storing Necessities - If the septic truck is going to be stored for a long time, it is important to thoroughly decontaminate the tank to get rid of any pathogenic organisms that could corrode the tank. One way of thoroughly cleaning a septic tank is by using steam. The heat from the steam should kill any organisms inside the receptacle and prevent it from corroding.

Septic trucks are used to collect and dispose of waste fluids. Despite the fact that these vehicles are used to perform such messy jobs, the drivers must ensure they are cleaned on a regular basis. There are so many benefits to having a neat, tidy and spotless vehicle such as longevity and the presentation of a good business image that cleaning it until it is 'spic and span' should be made a top priority!