Texas Wastewater Class B Practice Exam

What should operators do to prevent forcing sewage into residential areas when using cleaning equipment?

1. Clean from the nearest access point

2. Go from a clear manhole and clean toward the stoppage

3. Use manual methods only

4. Notify residents beforehand

The correct answer is: Go from a clear manhole and clean toward the stoppage

Choosing to clean from a clear manhole and directing the cleaning equipment toward the stoppage is a sound approach as it effectively manages the flow of sewage. When operators start from a point of clear access, they can control the pressure and movement of water and sewage more effectively, reducing the risk of backflow into residential areas. This method ensures that any blockages can be addressed without inadvertently pushing sewage toward homes, which is crucial for maintaining public health and safety. Cleaning from the nearest access point may not always address the blockage effectively and could potentially push the sewage in the wrong direction. Relying exclusively on manual methods could be labor-intensive and less effective in larger systems. While notifying residents is a courteous practice, it does not prevent sewage from entering residential areas during cleaning. Therefore, strategically working from a clear manhole offers the most effective preventive measure in this scenario.