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SANITARY SEWER LINE MANHOLES AND MANHOLE COVERS

MATSF field personnel routinely perform inspections of manholes throughout the system and video inspection of the sanitary sewer pipes. In performing these tasks, a number of manholes have been identified as being buried as a result of landscaping activities. Covering manholes, thus making them inaccessible, is prohibited by MATSF regulations and by Township ordinances. These ordinances provide for significant monetary penalties that may be assessed to property owners that have covered manholes. MATSF personnel and their contractors must have ready access to manholes not only for performing the required assessment activities, but to provide prompt response to any emergency blockages that may occur. 

Click here to view the: South Fayette Twp. Sanitary Sewer Manhole Ordinance

VIEW OF TYPICAL PITTSBURGH (PHILADELPHIA) STYLE VENT ASSEMBLY

The above represents a typn some cases, especially where the building was constructed periodical view of the Pittsburgh (or Philadelphia) style cast iron vent assembly. This is generally located within 5’feet of the building where the main sanitary sewer exits. Ir to the construction of public sanitary sewers, the vent may be located further than 5’ from the building. It should be elevated or otherwise situated so that no rain or ground water can enter into the sanitary sewer. Plastic vent assemblies are not approved.

The fresh air vent is located directly above the main house trap. The unit should not be buried and should be accessible at all times. Since it is located directly over the trap, it is a primary access point for a plumber should your sewer ever become clogged. Often times, the clog is in the trap, and therefore, ready access to the vent enables a quick resolution to the problem. Also, if the vent is buried, it can not function properly and it could allow ground water to enter the sanitary sewer. South Fayette Municipal Authority is subject to Allegheny County Health Department Administrative Consent Orders which require that efforts be made to reduce surface/ground water entry into the sanitary sewer.

The above assembly can be purchased at most places that specialize in plumbing supplies. Locally, Sarasnick’s Hardware on Washington Avenue in Bridgeville maintains an inventory of this item.  It should be securely connected to the vertical riser pipe.