When should a privy be pumped in relation to the riser?

A privy should be pumped when the waste within reaches a level that can affect its operation and safety. Pumping it at the appropriate time is crucial to prevent overflow and maintain sanitary conditions. The recommendation to pump when 18 inches of the riser is filled is based on practical experience and health guidelines. This allows for adequate holding capacity while ensuring that the waste does not reach a level that could lead to potential spillage, making the area unsanitary and creating a public health risk.

Maintaining a pumping schedule based on this threshold ensures that the privy system functions properly, does not become a source of odor or nuisance, and remains compliant with sanitation regulations. This proactive approach helps prevent more serious issues that can arise from allowing waste to accumulate excessively.