What is the maximum allowed free space for access openings?

The maximum allowed free space for access openings in a septic system is established to ensure that maintenance personnel can easily access the system components for inspections, repairs, and pump-outs. A distance of 24 inches is deemed appropriate as it allows sufficient room for safe and effective access while maintaining structural integrity and minimizing the risk of damage to the system.

This standard is important because it balances the need for accessibility with safety considerations, ensuring workers can navigate around the system without obstructions. The 24-inch guideline helps prevent accidents and ensures that all necessary components, such as the tank lid and baffles, are reachable without excessive bending or stretching. Larger access openings could potentially compromise the system’s structure or lead to other safety concerns, which is why the 24-inch specification is set as a maximum limit.