Cesspools Quiz

What is another name for cesspools?

• Off mains

• Septic tanks

• Effluent tanks

• Cesspits

What is the primary function of a cesspool?

• To separate liquid and solid waste

• To store sewage until its disposal

• To treat sewage biologically

• To connect to the public sewer system

What must modern cesspools be constructed from to ensure they are watertight?

• Brick

• Concrete

• Glass reinforced plastic (GRP)

• Metal

Why might a cesspool need to be emptied on a regular basis?

• To prevent overflow of effluent

• To connect it to the public sewer system

• To separate liquid and solid waste

• To treat the sewage biologically

What is a common problem with brick-built cesspools?

• They are too small

• They are too expensive

• They can break down, leading to leakage

• They treat sewage too efficiently

What is the main difference between cesspools and septic tanks?

• Septic tanks store sewage, while cesspools treat it

• Septic tanks separate liquid and solid waste, while cesspools do not

• Septic tanks are connected to the public sewer system, while cesspools are not

• Septic tanks are illegal in the UK and Ireland, while cesspools are not

Why are septic tanks not allowed in many areas of the UK and Ireland?

• They are too large

• They only partially treat sewage

• They are too modern

• They fully treat sewage

What is the purpose of conducting a soil porosity test when installing a septic tank?

• To determine the type of septic tank to be used

• To establish the overall length of the drain run needed

• To calculate the cost of the installation

• To choose the location for the septic tank

Which of the following is NOT a condition for installing septic tanks according to the image?

• Soil is of suitable porosity

• Installation complies with Building Regs (Approved Document H)

• Installation will not contaminate any ditch, stream or other watercourse

• Installation must be done only in urban areas

What is the first step in the procedure to test soil porosity for septic tank installation?

• Refill the hole with water to a depth of 300mm

• Excavate a hole 300mm square by 300mm deep

• Divide the time by 150mm to get the average time in seconds (Vp)

• Fill the hole with water and allow it to drain away overnight