Sanitary Sewer – COVID-19 and potential for increased sewer back-ups

With the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, a problem is starting to emerge that not many could see coming – a shortage of toilet paper in stores across the nation.  When an individual runs out of toilet paper and can’t buy any more, trying to find safe alternatives to use can be difficult. Most of the options people turn to will most likely clog their own toilet and lines but can also create additional issues for the city.  The public may not view this as a big deal to use something else, but this is risking a potential problem for an increase in sewer back-up claim activity and an additional strain on city resources.

Some examples of things people may turn to that are NOT safe to be flushed down a toilet include:

• Kleenex/facial tissue – does not break down in water the same as toilet paper and SHOULDN’T be flushed
• Paper towels 
• Napkins
• Rags/cloths
• Woven fabric
• Dryer sheets
• Disinfecting wipes
• Baby wipes

This is a great time to also remind everyone of your city's F.O.G. (fats, oils and grease) program and emphasize just how important it is during these trying times what should and shouldn’t be disposed of in a sanitary sewer system.  If your city does not have this information on their website, this would be a most opportune time to get this reminder message out to the community.  Mailings and social media are additional sources of getting this information out to your residents. See pages 16 & 17 of the LMCIT Sanitary Sewer Toolkit to help guide you in these efforts.

Submitted by:  Michael Neff, Loss Control Consultant