eNewsletter
03/25/2020 Update – Essential Service Personnel Form
OSSF Professionals TOWA is providing this generic “Essential Services Form” sample in a WORD Document, please follow the link below to access this file:
You can save and edit this file specific to your company and personnel, for traveling to and from work and to and from the jobsite in areas of the state that may be under a “Shelter in Place Orders”
You may want to make copies of and attach to your form, the shelter in place orders for the areas you work in and highlight the section that allows critical infrastructure and essential service travel to remain unrestricted.
Providing each employee a copy of these documents to travel with may prevent them from being turned around by law enforcement.
03/24/2020 Update on the COVID – 19 Pandemic and the OSSF Industry
On Friday 03/20/20, TOWA sent an e-mail to TCEQ’s Executive Director and OSSF staff for further clarification on OSSF members being “critical infrastructure personnel”. While the Governor does not appear ready to issue a shelter in place directive, many counties and cities in the State already have. We are “decentralized utility workers” and oversee the treatment for 25% of the State’s wastewater needs and are a critical part of protecting Public Health and the Environment. With everyone now at home, this is more critical than ever before. Until we hear otherwise, we believe that we can continue to provide an essential services and proceed with the safe maintenance, repair, pumping and disposal of onsite systems in Texas.
The TCEQ has informed us that there has been a 30 day extension for all licenses expiring in March and April for CEU requirements, by order of the Governor. This is a temporary suspension while paper tests and typical classes are not available. For additional details, please see the TCEQ Licensing website at: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/covid-19
Below is an update from TCEQ’s The Advocate for more information on COVID-19
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On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) Program COVID-19 General Guidance
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Is COVID-19 transmitted by wastewater (sewage)?
• Wastewater has many pathogens. As always, follow sound practices and use protective equipment to reduces exposure to pathogens. Currently we have no evidence that wastewater transmits COVID-19.
How to reduce exposure to pathogens in wastewater?
• Use physical barriers to prevent exposure to splashes or sprays of wastewater.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as eye protection (goggles, face mask, or face shield); liquid repellant coveralls and gloves.
• Properly put on, use, wear, take off, clean/disinfect, maintain, store, and dispose of PPE.
Follow proper hygiene
• Wash hands with soap and water immediately after handling waste or sewage, before eating or drinking, and before and after using the toilet.
• Avoid touching face, mouth, eyes, nose, and open sores and cuts while handling sewage.
• Remove work clothes before eating and eat in designated areas.
• Do not smoke or chew tobacco or gum near the wastewater.
• Cover open sores, cuts, and wounds with clean dry bandages.
• Remove work clothes before leaving the worksite.
Will my OSSF (septic system) treat COVID-19?
Properly designed, installed, and maintained Onsite Sewage Facilities are expected to treat viruses and other pathogens in wastewater. COVID-19 is a virus that should safely be treated as well by all indications.
OSSF disinfection concerns
OSSF systems that utilize alternative treatment with surface application must have disinfection devices. The devices should be maintained. If the device requires a disinfection product, the product should meet the requirements for the device.
Links for more information
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html
• https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-and-drinking-water-and-wastewater#wastewatersewage
• https://www.who.int/publications-detail/water-sanitation-hygiene-and-waste-management-forcovid-19
• https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/global/sanitation/workers_handlingwaste.html
Email OSSF@tceq.texas.gov with any questions.
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And finally, we realize this is a very stressful time for you, your employees and the health and safety of those you serve. The COVID-19 pandemic is having effects on every aspect of society and we will do everything we can to provide timely updates that are relevant to the OSSF industry as new information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Randy Chelette & the Entire TOWA Board
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