Environmental Engineering (continued)

On-Lot Sewage Disposal
The installation and maintenance of a septic tank, tile field, seepage pit or cesspool used for disposal of sewage is evaluated to determine compliance with State laws and regulations. Proposed new building construction where the municipal sewerage system is not available or extensive repairs to an existing on-lot sewage require the submission of an application which includes ownership information and a plan as to the proposed site use or repairs to be made. A test pit and a percolation test are performed by the applicant under the direct supervision of a PDPH inspector and a permit is issued or recommendations for correction are made. The tests can usually be conducted within 48 to 72 hours of notification depending upon weather conditions and tests to be performed. Brochures with information on system design, operation and maintenance as well as application forms and copies of the regulations are available. Complaints concerning the improper discharge of sewage from an on-lot sewage system to the ground surface or into a waterway are immediately investigated. These reports are to be submitted to (215) 685-7342 (work hours) or (215) 686-4514/4515 (holidays, nights, weekends).

Individual Water Supply
Requests for approval of drinking water wells, and complaints concerning bottled or well water, or illegal plumbing connections with the municipal water supply in commercial or public facilities are investigated by the PDPH to determine the safety of this drinking water source. The inspection may be made jointly with other city or state agencies and samples of the water may be collected for analysis by city or state laboratories for determination with federal and state standards.

Barber or Beauty Shops
These facilities are inspected routinely or in response to a complaint to assure that they are operated in conformance with PDPH regulations. New establishments requesting PDPH approval for the city license must possess the PA Department of State, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs "Barber/Beauty Shop Owner's License" before the PDPH can approve this facility.

Public Nuisance Inspections
Unsafe or unsanitary conditions in public areas are investigated and orders are issued to the responsible party or referrals are made to other city, state or federal agencies which have jurisdiction. Unsanitary public toilet rooms, insect or rodent infestations in commercial buildings, improper disposal of hazardous materials, and unsafe conditions in public areas which pose a hazard to children or the public are examples of concerns which will be investigated or referred to the appropriate agency for evaluation.