20 Division 2 Section 03100 Septic Tank Version 0.0

ABU DHABI SEWERAGE SERVICES COMPANY
(ADSSC)
GENERAL SPECIFICATION FOR CIVIL WORKS
DIVISION 2 SITEWORK
SECTION 03100
UNDERGROUND SEPTIC TANK AND DISPOSAL
SYSTEM
DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND TESTING
Underground Septic
ADSSC/GSCW Division 02 Section 03100 Tank and Disposal Rev: 00 Nov. 2013 Page 1 of 22
System
General Specification for Civil Works
Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company
(ADSSC)
DOCUMENT CONTROL SHEET
Revision No. Date Revision Description / Purpose of Issue
00 November 2013 First Issue.
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Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 GENERAL ....................................................................................................... 4
1.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................ 4
1.2 RELATED DOCUMENTS ..................................................................... 4
1.3 STANDARDS ....................................................................................... 4
1.4 SUBMITTALS ....................................................................................... 6
1.4.1 PRODUCTS AND MATERIALS APPROVAL. ....................................... 6
1.4.2 METHOD STATEMENTS ..................................................................... 7
1.4.3 DRAWINGS ......................................................................................... 7
1.4.4 SAMPLES ............................................................................................ 7
1.5 QUALITY CONTROL............................................................................ 7
1.6 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING............................................ 8
2 PRODUCTS ..................................................................................................... 8
2.1 GENERAL ............................................................................................ 8
2.2 PROTECTION OF DRINKING WATER SOURCE ................................ 8
2.3 PERFORMANCE STANDRDS .............. Error! Bookmark not defined.
2.4 CAPACITY OF SEPTIC TANKS. .......................................................... 9
2.5 AREA OF DISPOSAL FIELDS AND SEEPAGE PITS. ......................... 9
2.6 PERCOLATION TEST........................................................................ 11
2.7 SEPTIC TANK CONSTRUCTION. ..................................................... 11
2.8 STRUCTURAL DESIGN. .................................................................... 12
2.9 MATERIALS. ...................................................................................... 13
2.10 PREFABRICATED SEPTIC TANKS. .................................................. 13
2.11 DISPOSAL FIELDS. ........................................................................... 13
2.12 SEEPAGE PITS. ................................................................................ 15
2.13 PIPING. .............................................................................................. 16
2.14 VENTING AND ODOR CONTROL ..................................................... 16
2.15 COVERS ............................................................................................ 17
2.16 TAGGING PLATE FOR IDENTIFICATION ......................................... 17
2.17 OVERFLOW PROVISION .................................................................. 17
2.18 SURFACE WATER ............................................................................ 17
3 EXECUTION .................................................................................................. 17
3.1 INSTALLATION .................................................................................. 17
3.2 INSPECTION ..................................................................................... 18
3.3 TESTING............................................................................................ 19
3.4 TREATMENT EFFICIENCY ............................................................... 20
3.5 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS ...................................................... 20
3.6 OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS........................ 20
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
1 GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE
This section of the specification gives the requirements for the Design,
Construction, Testing and Commissioning of Underground Septic Tank
(prefabricated) and associated Disposal System used where no public sewer
is available for connection. A septic tank is a chamber which is RCC (or
glass fiber / plastic construction if approved by ADSSC). Septic tank
provides an environment for solids to settle and partially undergo anaerobic
decomposition, the remainder of the waste which is in liquid form and is
partially treated, drains from the tank and is disposed of to the designed
disposal field or seepage pits.
1.2 RELATED DOCUMENTS
The following sections of the specification shall be read in conjunction with

but not limited to the following sections.
Section 01000-07 Submittals

Section 01000-08 Quality control
Section 01000-09 Materials and equipment
Section 02120 Utility excavation, surround and backfill
Section 03300 Cast in place concrete
Section 03400 Precast concrete
Section 03600 Concrete protection and waterproofing systems
Section 02200 GRP Pipelines Materials
Section 02205 uPVC Pipelines
Section 03200 Concrete Reinforcement
Section 03800 Testing of Water Retaining / Excluding Structures
1.3 STANDARDS
All activities relating to this section of the specification shall comply with the
following or approved equal standards, yet not limited to :
BS EN 12566-1 Small Wastewater Treatment Systems for up to 50 PT

– Part 1: Prefabricated Septic Tanks
CEN/TR 12566-2 Small Wastewater Treatment Systems for up to 50 PT
– Part 2: Soil Infiltration Systems
EN 12566-3 Small Wastewater Treatment Systems for up to 50 PT
– Part 3: Packaged and/or Site Assembled Domestic
Wastewater Treatment Plants
EN 12566-4 Small Wastewater Treatment Systems for up to 50 PT
– Part 4: Septic Tanks Assembled in situ from
Prefabricated Kits
CEN/TR 12566-5 Small Wastewater Treatment Systems for up to 50 PT
– Part 5: Pre-treated Effluent Filtration Systems
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
BS 6297 Code of practice for the design and installation of

drainage fields for use in wastewater treatment
EN 476 General requirements for components used in
discharge pipes, drains and sewers for gravity systems
EN 1085 Waste water treatment — Vocabulary
BS EN 124 Gully tops and manhole tops for vehicular and
pedestrian areas. Design requirements, type testing,
marking, quality control
BS 5400-2 Steel, concrete and composite bridges. Specification for
loads.
BS 5834-2 Surface boxes, guards and underground chambers for
gas and waterworks purposes. Specification for small
surface boxes.
BS EN 681-1 Elastomeric seals. Material requirements for pipe joint
seals used in water and drainage applications.
Vulcanised rubber.
BS EN 10088-1 Stainless steels. List of stainless steels.
BS EN 13101 Steps for underground man-entry chambers –
Requirements, marking, testing and evaluation of
conformity
BS EN 14118-3 Reinforcement. Specifications for textile glass mats
(chopped strand and continuous filament mats).
Specific requirements.
BS EN 14364 Plastics piping system for drainage and sewerage with
or without pressure. Glass reinforced-thermosetting
plastics (GRP) based on unsaturated polyester resin
(UP). Specifications for pipes and fittings
ISO 1083 Spheroidal graphite cast iron - classification.
ISO 9000 Quality management systems.
ASTM D570 Standard test method for water absorption of plastics.
ASTM D2583 Standard test method for indentation hardness of rigid
plastics by means of a Barcol impresser.
ASTM E84 Standard test method for surface burning
characteristics of building materials. .
BSI 6297 Code of practice for the design and installation of
drainage fields for use in wastewater treatment.
BS 3396 Woven glass fabrics for plastics reinforcement.
BS 3532 Method of specifying unsaturated polyester resin
systems.
 Uniform Plumbing Code of Abu Dhabi; Published by Environmental Agency of

Abu Dhabi - UAE
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
 Uniform Plumbing Code; Published by International Association of Plumbing &

Mechanical Officials – USA
(Any other relevant to the other material involved)
1.4 SUBMITTALS
1.4.1 PRODUCTS AND MATERIALS APPROVAL.
a) In order to verify compliance with the specification the Contractor shall

submit information for all products and materials used in the Works to
the Engineer for approval sufficiently in advance of their use in
accordance with the Contract program allowing for ordering and
approval times. Reference shall also be made to Section 01000-09 of
the specification on products and materials approval. Information to be
submitted shall comprise but not necessarily be limited to:
i. Manufacturer’s/suppliers name.
ii. Product name/description.
iii. Manufacturer’s technical data.
iv. Storage instructions.
v. Installation instructions.
b) Conformity of the Septic Tank to the requirement of BS EN 12566 – 1,

shall be demonstrated for the following, all the reports shall be submitted
for ADSSC / Engineers furtherance.
- Initial Type Test Reports (Table No. 4)
- Factory Product Control Reports.
- Finish Product Test Reports
c) Detailed applications inclusive of all the parameters and site layout shall
be submitted to ADSSC for approval.
d) Cast in place and precast concrete shall comply with the requirements of
Section 03300 and 03400 of the specification respectively.
e) Concrete protection and waterproofing systems shall comply with the

requirements of Section 03600 of the specification.
f) Construction shall be in compliance with ADSSC Specification Division 2

Site Work Sub-Section 02300 Sewage Works.
g) ADSSC may consider application of new materials (GRP, PE) for

construction of prefabricated Septic Tanks, providing that that there is
sufficient proof for viability of the application.
h) Construction materials used throughout the Septic tank system must be

able to function as designed while exposed to sewage, sewage gases,
and physical forces caused by repeated tank filling and hauling for
sludge and scum removal which is inherent to system operation
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
1.4.2 METHOD STATEMENTS
a) The Contractor shall submit method statements to the Engineer for

approval 4 weeks in advance of commencing the site activity in
accordance with Section 01000-07 of the specification. These shall
comprise but not necessarily be limited to:
i. Septic Tank
ii. Site preparations
iii. Soil investigation, etc…
1.4.3 DRAWINGS
The Contractor shall submit drawings to the Engineer for approval in

advance of commencing the site activity in accordance with Section 01000-
07 of the specification. These shall comprise but not necessarily be limited
to:
a) Excavation drawings in accordance with Section 02120 of the

specification.
b) Precast concrete structure drawings in accordance with section
03400 of the specification.
c) Concrete protection and waterproofing systems drawings in
accordance with Section 03600 of the specification.
d) Product fabrication and erection drawings including plans,
elevations, sections and connection and anchorage details.
e) Layout plan of Septic Tank, showing spacing of components, post
foundation dimensions, disposal field, connections, details and
schedule of components.
1.4.4 SAMPLES
a) Representative samples as agreed with the Engineer must be submitted

for at least the following items at the same time as the particulars are
submitted.
i. Samples of Pipeline and apertures.

ii. GRP Liner and other water proofing materials.
iii. Any other construction materials
1.5 QUALITY CONTROL
a) Prior to dispatch of any product and/or material from source the

Contractor shall notify the Engineer in writing in sufficient time to allow
the Engineer the opportunity to inspect and test the product and/or
material prior to delivery in accordance with Section 01000-08 of the
specification.
b) Products and materials shall be from a manufacturer/supplier who

operates a quality system which is registered to ISO 9000 series or
approved equal.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
c) To allow the Engineer to inspect the Works the Contractor shall give the
Engineer a minimum of 24 hours notice of carrying out the following
activities on site.
i. Commencement of Septic Tank.

.
1.6 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING
Delivery, storage and handling of products and materials shall be in

accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, Section 01000-09 of
the specification but not limited to the following provisions.
a) Delivery, storage and handling shall at all times be performed in a

manner to avoid product damage.
b) Products shall be stored off the ground on timber blocks of sufficient size
and spacing to provide adequate support.
c) Products shall be stored at site in an environment as recommended by
the manufacturer.
d) Products that are stored outside at site shall be stored under cover to
prevent ultra violet deterioration and as recommended by the
manufacturer.
2 PRODUCTS
2.1 GENERAL
A Septic Tank (prefabricated) is an alternative to a conventional on-site

sewage system with very special and limited applications. The main function
of a septic tank is to separate, retain and partially digest settle-able and
floatable solids in wastewater. The working capacity of a septic tank shall be
sufficient for all these functions to occur. Septic tanks shall be watertight,
with sufficient structural strength and integrity to withstand external soil
pressures, internal and external water pressures and any likely imposed
loading. Septic tanks situated under driveways and parking areas shall be
designed to carry the appropriate vehicle loads. Sufficient access to the tank
shall be available for inspection and de-sludgeing (sludge pump-out)
activities.
2.2 PROTECTION OF DRINKING WATER SOURCE
Where site investigations identify sources of groundwater used or intended

for human consumption, it is unlikely to be suitable for a drainage field. The
environmental regulator should be consulted before undertaking detailed
system design and planning. A number of geological and hydrogeological
factors control the risk to groundwater, including the type and depth of soil
and distance to the water table. Other environmental factors that should be
considered include but are not limited to:
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
a. risk of health hazard or nuisance;

b. impacts on wells, boreholes and other water sources used or intended
for human consumption;
c. amenity or conservation habitat;
d. flooding or waterlogging due to unsuitable drainage characteristics;
e. nutrient overloading of surface water catchments
A drainage field should not be installed in a flood plain or in seasonally

waterlogged, boggy or frequently wetted areas
2.3 CAPACITY OF SEPTIC TANKS.
The capacity of wastewater shall be calculated as per the Table 3.2.7 of

Section # 3 of ADSSC Design Guidelines; as daily flow rate. The capacity of
septic tank and its disposal system shall be limited by the soil structure
classification, as specified in Table No. 1 of this specification. The capacity
shall be calculated as per following calculation:
- Waste/sewage flow, up to 5600 Liters / day

Minimum Septic Tank Volume = Wastewater Flow x 1.5
- Waste/sewage flow, over 5600 Liters / day

Minimum Septic Tank Volume = Wastewater Flow x 0.75 + 4260
Note : Working (or liquid) volume is measured from the inside bottom of the
tank to invert of the outlet. The volume of water filled up to the outlet level
shall be at least equal to the nominal capacity claimed by the manufacturer.
2.4 AREA OF DISPOSAL FIELDS AND SEEPAGE PITS.
A system shall be consisting of trenches with pipes and gravel aggregates,

installed for the purpose of receiving wastewater from a septic tank and
transmitting it into soil for final treatment and disposal, this system may
called a soil infiltration system shall comply with the requirements of EN
12566 for the drainage field, seepage field or bed, distribution field,
subsurface disposal area, or the treatment and disposal field. The minimum
effective absorption area in disposal fields in m2, and in seepage pits in m2
of base and sidewall(s), shall be calculated for the required septic tank
capacity in Liters (L) and/or estimated wastewater/sewage flow rate,
whichever is greater, and shall conform to Table No. 1; as determined for
the type of soil found in the excavation, and shall be as follows:
a- When disposal fields are installed, shall not be less than fourteen 14 m2
of trench bottom and shall be provided for each system exclusive of any
hard pan, rock, clay, or other impervious formations. The trench sidewall
shall exceed the required 30cm but not to be exceeding by 90cm below
the leach line, all to be permitted to be added to the trench bottom area
when computing absorption areas.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
b- Where leaching beds are permitted in lieu of trenches, the area of each
such bed shall be at least 50 percent greater than the tabular
requirements for trenches. Perimeter sidewall shall exceed the required
30cm but not to be exceeding by 90cm below the leach line, all to be
permitted to be added to the trench bottom area when computing
absorption areas.
c- No excavation for a leach line or leach bed shall be located within 1.5m
of the water table nor to a depth where sewage contaminates the
underground water stratum that is usable for domestic purposes.
Exception: In areas where the records or data indicate that the ground waters
are grossly degraded, the 1.5m separation requirement shall be permitted to be
reduced by the ADSSC / Engineer. The contractor shall supply evidence of
groundwater depth to the satisfaction of the ADSSC / Engineer.
d- The minimum effective absorption area in any seepage pit shall be

calculated as the excavated sidewall area below the inlet exclusive of
any hardpan, rock, clay, or other impervious formations. The minimum
required area of porous formation shall be provided in one or more
seepage pits. No excavation shall be located within 3m of the water table
nor to a depth where sewage contaminates underground water stratum
that is usable for domestic purposes.
Exception: In areas where the records or data indicate that the ground waters
are grossly degraded, the 3m separation requirement shall be permitted to be
reduced by the ADSSC / Engineer. The contractor shall supply evidence of
groundwater depth to the satisfaction of the ADSSC / Engineer.
e- Leaching chambers shall be sized on the bottom absorption area

(nominal unit width) in m2. The required area shall be calculated using
Table 3.2.7 of Section # 3 of ADSSC Design Guidelines and Table No. 1
with a 0.70 multiplier.
f- For gravity flow systems from a small number of houses, the maximum
length of a single trench should be no more than 30 m to avoid any
increased risk of poor distribution with longer trenches
g- For the distribution pipes following the distribution chamber, the

minimum internal diameter should be 100 mm for gravity systems; The
infiltration pipes used should have downward facing holes or slots and a
smooth internal inner surface.
h- The distribution pipes perforations should be dimensioned and spaced to

ensure that granular fill cannot enter the infiltration pipe and that effluent
can flow easily through the perforation without clogging. Slots in the
pipes used should have a minimum equivalent open area of 1000 mm2
per linear meter.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
2.5 PERCOLATION TEST.
a) The disposal field and seepage pit sizes shall be computed from Table
No. 1. The absorption capacity seepage pit sizes shall be computed by
percolation tests and to the Table No. 1 and shall be approved by the
ADSSC / Engineer.
b) In order to determine the absorption qualities of seepage pits and of

questionable soils other than those listed in Table No. 1, the proposed
site shall be subjected to percolation tests as to be acceptable to the
ADSSC / Engineer, without any cost implication.
c) When a percolation test is required, no disposal system shall be

permitted to serve a building if that test shows the absorption capacity of
the soil is less than 34 L/m2 or more than 209 L/m2 of leaching area per
24 hours. If the percolation test shows an absorption rate exceeding
209L/m2 per 24 hours, a disposal system shall be permitted if the site
does not overlie ground waters protected for drinking water supplies, a
thickness of not less than 61cm of the native soil below the entire
proposed system is to be replaced by the loamy sand, and the system
design shall be based on revised percolation tests made in the loamy
sand.
2.6 SEPTIC TANK CONSTRUCTION.
a) Plans for all septic tanks shall be submitted to the ADSSC / Engineer for
approval. Such plans shall show all the dimensions, reinforcing,
structural calculations, and such other pertinent data as required.
b) Septic tank design shall be such as to produce a clarified effluent

consistent and shall provide adequate space for sludge and scum
accumulations.
c) Septic tanks shall be constructed of durable materials not subject to

resistive to the corrosion or decay and shall be water-tight as to comply
with the requirements of BS EN 12566
d) Septic tanks shall have not less than two compartments. The inlet
compartment of any septic tank shall be not less than two third (2/3) of
the total capacity of the tank, nor less than a 2m3 liquid capacity, and
shall be not less than 90cm in width and 150cm in length. Liquid depth
shall be not less than 78cm nor more than 1.83m. The secondary
compartment of any septic tank shall have a capacity of not less than
1m3 and a capacity exceeding 1/3 of the total capacity of such tank. In
septic tanks exceeding a 6.0 m3 capacity, the secondary compartment
shall be not less than 1.5m in length.
e) Access to each septic tank shall be provided by not less than two
manholes not less than 60cm in dimension. One access manhole shall
be located over the inlet and one access manhole shall be located over
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
the outlet. Wherever a first compartment exceeds 3.7m in length, an

additional manhole shall be provided over the central wall of the septic
tank.
f) The inlet and outlet pipe openings shall not be larger in size than the
connecting sewer pipe. The vertical leg of round inlet and outlet fittings
shall be not less in size than the connecting sewer pipe nor less than
100mm. A fitting shall have the equivalent cross-sectional area of the
connecting sewer pipe and not less than a 100mm horizontal dimension
when measured at the inlet and outlet pipe inverts.
g) The inlet and outlet pipe shall extend 100 mm above and not less than
30cm below the water surface. The invert of the inlet pipe shall be at a
level not less than 50mm above the invert of the outlet pipe.
h) Inlet and outlet pipe fittings and compartment partitions shall have a free
vent area equal to the required cross-sectional area of the sewer
discharging therein to provide free ventilation above the water surface
from the disposal field or seepage pit through the septic tank, house
sewer, and stack to the outer air.
i) The sidewalls shall extend not less than 23cm above the liquid depth.
The cover of the septic tank shall be not less than 50mm above the back
vent openings.
j) Partitions between compartments shall be of solid, durable material and

shall extend not less than 100mm above the liquid level. An inverted
fitting equivalent in size to the tank inlet, but in no case less than 100mm
in size, shall be installed in the inlet compartment side of the baffle with
the bottom of the fitting placed midway in the depth of the liquid.
2.7 STRUCTURAL DESIGN.
a) General : The structural behavior of the septic tank shall be determined

by the crushing resistance / maximum load deformation, using the
calculation test methods described in Annexure D of BE EN 12566 – 1,
and accordingly reports shall be submitted for ADSSC / Engineer for the
approval. Septic tank shall be structurally designed to withstand all the
anticipated earth or other loads. Septic tank covers shall be capable of
supporting an earth load of not less than 2.5 kN/m2 when the maximum
coverage does not exceed 90cm.
b) Flood Loads. In flood hazard areas, tanks shall be anchored to counter

buoyant forces during conditions of the design flood. The vent
termination and service manhole of the tank shall be not less than 60cm
above the flood elevation or fitted with covers designed to prevent the
inflow of floodwater or the outflow of the contents of the tanks during
conditions of the flood.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
c) Septic tanks installed under concrete or blacktop paving shall have the
required manholes accessible by extending the manhole openings to
grade in a manner acceptable to the ADSSC / Engineer.
d) The septic tanks (prefabricated) shall resist the maximal loads and
stresses resulting from handling, installation conditions and use including
de-sludging, for their design life. Depending on the end use, safety
factors shall be used to calculate the loadings for which the septic tanks
are designed. The following loads shall be considered:
i. backfill load;
ii. hydrostatic loads;
iii. dynamic loads.
All to comply with the requirement of EN 12566 -1 norms (latest edition)
e) Access : Septic tanks shall be securely covered to prevent unauthorized

access and ensure operational safety. Consideration shall be given by
the design to provide an access to the inlet and/or outlet areas for
routine maintenance sampling, the removal of sludge, and cleaning and
maintenance. Extension shafts and access covers shall be fit for
purpose. A minimum of 600 mm is required and the provisions for man
entry shall meet the requirements of EN 476.
2.8 MATERIALS.
a) Concrete Septic Tanks. The concrete used in constructing of a septic tank

shall be in accordance all the applicable standards defined in the ADSSC
specification shall not be limited to 03400 – Precast Concrete and 03600 –
Concrete protection and waterproofing systems and all the construction
materials shall be approved by the ADSSC / Engineer.
b) Alternate Materials. (I) Septic tanks constructed of alternate materials shall be

subject to the prior approved by the ADSSC / Engineer when complying with
applicable standards.
2.9 SEPTIC TANKS GENERAL.
a) Manufactured / prefabricated septic tanks shall designed, constructed and

tested in compliance with the specification shall be approved by the ADSSC /
Engineer.
b) Independent laboratory type tests reports and engineering calculations

certifying the tank capacity and structural stability and performances shall be
provided for ADSSC / Engineer approvals prior to the site delivery.
2.10 DISPOSAL FIELDS.
a) Distribution lines shall be constructed of perforated high-density polyethylene

pipe HDPE, perforated ABS pipe, perforated PVC pipe or other approved
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
materials, as specified in ADSSC relevant specification provided with

sufficient openings for the distribution of the effluent to the disposal area.
b) Before placing filter material or drain lines in a prepared excavation, all

smeared or compacted surfaces shall be removed from trenches by raking to
a depth of 25mm and the loose material removed. Clean stone, gravel, slag,
or similar filter material acceptable to the ADSSC / Engineer, varying in size
from 20mm to 65mm shall be placed in the trench to the depth and grade
required by this section. Drain pipe shall be placed on filter material in an
approved manner. The drain lines shall then be covered with filter material to
the minimum depth required by this section, and this material covered with
untreated building paper, straw, or similar porous material to prevent closure
of voids with earth backfill. No earth backfill shall be placed over the filter
material cover until after inspection and acceptance.
Exception: Listed or approved plastic leaching chambers shall be permitted to be
used in lieu of pipe and filter material. Chamber installations shall follow the rules for
disposal fields, where applicable, and shall conform to manufacturer’s installation
instructions.
c) A grade board staked in the trench to the depth of filter material shall be
utilized when the distribution line is constructed with drain tile or a flexible
pipe material that will not maintain alignment without continuous support.
d) When seepage pits are used in combination with disposal fields, the filter
material in the trenches shall terminate not less than 1.5m from the pit
excavation, and the line extending from such points to the seepage pit shall
be approved pipe with water-tight joints.
e) Where two or more drain lines are installed, an approved distribution box of
sufficient size to receive lateral lines shall be installed at the head of each
disposal field. The inverts of all outlets shall be level, and the invert of the inlet
shall be not less than 25mm above the outlets. Distribution boxes shall be
designed to ensure equal flow and shall be installed on a level concrete slab
in natural or compacted soil.
f) All laterals from a distribution box to the disposal field shall be approved pipe
with water-tight joints. Multiple disposal field laterals, wherever practicable,
shall be of uniform length.
g) Connections between a septic tank and a distribution box shall be laid with
approved pipe with water-tight joints on natural ground or compacted fill.
h) When the quantity of sewage exceeds the amount that can be disposed in
152 lineal m of leach line, a dosing tank* shall be used. Dosing tanks shall be
equipped with an automatic siphon that discharges the tank once every 3 or 4
hours. The tank shall have a capacity equal to 60 to 75 percent of the interior
capacity of the pipe to be dosed at one time. Where the total length of pipe
exceeds 305 lineal m the dosing tank shall be provided with two siphons
dosing alternately and each serving half of the leach field.
*- dosing tank – Pumped periodically discharges the contents of a dosing
chamber through the drainage system. This is used where there is
insufficient fall, or where the drainage field is at a remote or higher level.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
i) Disposal fields shall be constructed as per Table No 2; Spacing between

trenches or leaching beds shall be not less 1.2m plus 60cm for each
additional 30cm of depth exceeding 30cm below the bottom of the drain line.
Distribution drain lines in leaching beds shall not exceed 1.8m apart on
centers, and no part of the perimeter of the leaching bed shall exceed 90cm
from a distribution drain line. Disposal fields, trenches, and leaching beds
shall not be paved over or covered by concrete or any material that can
reduce or inhibit any possible evaporation of sewer effluent.
j) When necessary on sloping ground to prevent excessive line slope, leach

lines or leach beds shall be stepped. The lines between each horizontal
section shall be made with water-tight joints and shall be designed so each
horizontal leaching trench or bed shall be utilized to the maximum capacity
before the effluent shall pass to the next lower leach line or bed. The lines
between each horizontal leaching section shall be made with approved water-
tight joints and installed on natural or unfilled ground.
k) Infiltration area shall be covered with a suitable geo-textile material

conforming to BS EN ISO 10319 to prevent contamination of the granular fill
material, e.g. by fine particles of soil
2.11 SEEPAGE PITS.
a) The capacity of seepage pits shall be based on the quantity of liquid waste
discharging there in to and on the character and porosity of the surrounding
soil, and shall conform to Section 2.5 of this specification.
b) Multiple seepage pit installations shall be served through an approved

distribution box or be connected in series by means of a water-tight
connection laid on undistributed or compacted soil; the outlet from the pit shall
have an approved vented leg fitting extending not less than 30cm below the
inlet fitting.
c) Each seepage pit shall be circular in shape and shall have an excavated
diameter of not less than 1.2m. Each such pit shall be lined with approved-
type whole new hard-burned clay brick, concrete brick, concrete circular-type
cesspool blocks, or other approved materials. Approval shall be obtained prior
to construction for any pit having an excavated diameter exceeding 1.8m.
d) The lining in every seepage pit shall be laid on a firm foundation. Lining
materials shall be placed tight together and laid with joints staggered. Except
in the case of approved-type precast concrete circular sections, no brick or
block shall be greater in height than its width, and shall be laid flat to form not
less than a 100mm wall. Brick or block exceeding 30cm in length shall have
chamfered matching ends and be scored to provide for seepage. Excavation
voids behind the brick, block, or concrete liner shall have not less than 15cm
and 20mm clean gravel or rock.
e) All brick or block used in seepage pit construction shall have a compressive
strength of not less than 2,500 psi.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
f) Each seepage pit shall have a sidewall (not including the arch) of not less
than 3m below the inlet.
g) The arch or dome of any seepage pit shall be permitted to be constructed in

one of three ways:
i. Approved type hard-burned clay brick or solid concrete brick or block laid
in cement mortar.
ii. Approved brick or block laid dry. In both of the above methods, an
approved cement mortar covering of not less 50mm in thickness shall be
applied, said covering to extend not less than 15cm beyond the sidewalls
of the pit.
iii. Approved type one- or two-piece reinforced concrete slab of (2,500 psi)
minimum compressive strength, not less than 13cm thick and designed to
support an earth load of not less than 2000kg/m2. Each such cover shall
be provided with not less than a 23cm inspection hole with plug or cover
and shall be coated on the underside with an approved bituminous or
other non-permeable protective compound.
h) The top of the arch or cover must be not less than 46cm but not exceeding
1.2m below the surface of the ground.
i) An approved vented inlet fitting shall be provided in every seepage pit so

arranged as to prevent the inflow from damaging the sidewall.
Exception: When using a one- or two-piece concrete slab cover inlet, fitting shall be
permitted to be a 1/4 bend fitting discharging through an opening in the top of the slab
cover. On multiple seepage pit installations, the outlet fittings shall be per Section
2.12 of this specification.
2.12 PIPING.
All plumbing connections must be watertight and such that if the Sewage
Septic tank is full, further use of the system will cause sewage to back up into
fixtures within the facility served. Minimum size of nominal diameter of inlet
and outlet according to the nominal capacity of equipment is
DN 100 for Septic Tank Capacity lesser than 6 m3
DN 150 for Septic Tank Capacity greater than 6 m3
2.13 VENTING AND ODOR CONTROL
Special care will be necessary to assure that hauling and service access
port lids are leak-proof. Inlet and outlet pipe fittings or baffles, and
compartment partitions shall have a free vent area equal to the required
cross-sectional area of the house sewer discharging therein to provide free
ventilation above the water surface from the disposal field or seepage pit
through the septic tank, house sewer, and stack to the outer air.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
2.14 COVERS
Unless otherwise shown on the drawings or instructed by the Engineer the

class of covers and frames shall be as follows:
a) Class C250 (ADSSC Drawing # SD 403A)
2.15 TAGGING PLATE FOR IDENTIFICATION
Tags shall be SS 316 plate of 150mm X 100mm X 3mm (thickness) size,

engraved carrying a logo, sequential number and customized information
along with Barcode as approved by the engineer shall be fixed to the tank and
one at easily accessible location to the identify the tank with details. Tag shall
be provide with but not limited to the following data:
1. Manufacturer and product identification;
2. Standard Identification : EN 12566
3. Construction Type.
4. Tank Dimension.
5. Design Septic Capacity.
6. Year of Construction.
7. Customer details.
8. Type of material;
9. Etc…….
2.16 OVERFLOW PROVISION
The Septic Tank system must be designed and installed such that no
overflow is allowed.
2.17 SURFACE WATER
Landscaping adjacent to the Septic Tank should direct surface water flow
away from the tank and disposal areas.
3 EXECUTION
3.1 INSTALLATION
Septic Tank must be installed according to the layout approved by ADSSC.
Installation procedures must be in accordance with the ADSSC Health and

Safety Work and other relevant legislation as applicable
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
Excavate for the tank, allowing sufficient clearance for the minimum
concrete surround thickness, whilst also taking into account any shoring /
trench supports used. The depth of the excavation is determined by the inlet
and outlet pipe invert levels relative to the bottom of the tank, and allowing
for the minimum base thickness. Ground instability at formation level e.g.
running sand may necessitate over-excavation and stabilization with
hardcore or blinding concrete.
Maintain a completely dry excavation until the final pour of concrete has set.
Failure to do this may result in voids beneath the tank and subsequent tank
failure. Pour the concrete into the bottom of the excavation to form a level
and smooth base onto which the tank can sit.
Place the tank onto the concrete base (precast / prefabricated tanks), while
the concrete is still wet, and determine the correct orientation for the tank
inlet(s) and outlet(s), i.e. the higher pipe on the tank is to be connected to
your upstream (inlet) pipe-work. Connect and seal your pipe-work to the tank,
checking alignment, and ensure that there is an adequate and correct fall for
the pipe.
Fill tank with clean water to a depth of 300mm and recheck the pipe work
levels. Commence backfilling evenly around the tank with concrete ensuring
there are no voids, particularly at the bottom of the tank shell. Continue filling
the chambers with water whilst evenly backfilling with concrete ensuring that
the progressive water level is no more than 300mm above the concrete level.
Connect and seal turret extensions prior to completing the concrete

encasement of the main tank to the height. Allow this concrete to set. Using
appropriate formwork, continue pouring concrete around the tank
superstructure.
Complete backfill to ground level using free flowing material. Trim all access
turrets and prepare suitable footings for each manhole frame ensuring that
any loads on the covers are not transmitted to the tank access turrets or
access extensions, if fitted.
3.2 INSPECTION
The Septic Tank installation shall be accessible for inspection by ADSSC

nominated representative at any time.
a) Water-tightness of the tank shall be tested on site and after installation,

by filling with water and shall be hold for 24 hours.
b) Non-buoyancy in high groundwater areas or conditions.
c) Leak-proof nature of the service access (es), access ports, risers, lids,
and covers.
d) Methods to secure the lids, covers and vents from inappropriate or

unapproved access.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
e) Methods of venting provided by the design and the installation. Venting

should exhaust above the roof line of the building.
f) Impervious surfaces around the access ports, equipment and methods

for cleaning sewage spills.
g) System components shall be properly identified as to the manufacturer.

Septic tanks or other primary systems shall have the rated capacity
permanently marked on the unit.
h) Septic tanks or other primary systems shall be installed on dry, level,

well-compacted soil.
i) If design is predicated on soil tests, the system shall be installed at the

same location and depth as the tested area.
3.3 TESTING.
(1) Septic tanks or other primary components shall be filled with potable water to
flow line prior to requesting inspection. All seams or joints shall be left
exposed (except the bottom), and the tank shall remain water-tight.
(2) A flow test shall be performed through the system to the point of effluent
disposal. All lines and components shall be water-tight. Capacities, required
air space, and fittings shall be in accordance with the provisions set forth in
this specification.
(3) Water test: for concrete septic tanks the loss of water measured after 30 min
shall be ≤ 0,1 litre per m2 of the internal wet surface of external walls. For
polyethylene and GRP septic tanks, no leakage shall be permitted. (Refer to
Table No. 5)
(4) Air permeability vacuum test: The septic tank shall be deemed watertight
when the pressure at the end of the test does not deviate by more than 10%
from the pressure at the start of the test as per Table No. 03
(5) Pneumatic pressure test: The septic tank shall be deemed watertight when :
(Refer to Table No. 5)
A)- Tested in the conditions given that the pneumatic pressure chosen for the
test does not decrease by more than 0,005 bar during the related test period,
condition to the septic tank shall be placed on a level surface and laterally
supported. One of the three pressures given in Table No. 3 shall be chosen
for the test. The chosen pneumatic pressure shall be gradually imposed on
the septic tank and held for 3 minutes to allow the septic tank to absorb the
deformation. After this, the variation of the pressure in the septic tank shall be
measured during the related test period defined in Table No. 3
B)- Tested in the conditions given that the pneumatic pressure 0,3 bar is
maintained during 180 seconds within limits of ± 10%, condition to the septic
tank shall be placed on a level surface and laterally supported. The septic
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
tank shall be subjected to an initial pneumatic pressure of 0,3 bar for at least
3 minutes.
(6) Hydraulic Efficiency : The extent to which the septic tank retains settling and
floating solids is determined by the hydraulic efficiency of the septic tank. As
soon as hydraulic efficiency requirements are defined, they shall be verified
using the test methods described in BS EN 12566-1 Annex B (normative).
Detail performance report shall be submitted for the approval of ADSSC /
Engineer.
3.4 TREATMENT EFFICIENCY
The plant shall demonstrate compliance with the wastewater treatment

efficiency performances and the related operational data declared by the
manufacturer, when tested according to Annex B of BS EN 12566 – 3. The
manufacturer’s declaration shall be expressed in terms of the treatment
efficiency ratios for all the major perimeters in relation to the daily load.
3.5 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
The manufacturer shall supply installation instructions with each septic tank
written in Arabic / English languages. These instructions shall contain data for
plant installation, pipe connections, commissioning and start-up procedures.
3.6 OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
The manufacturer shall provide with each septic tank comprehensive

operation and maintenance instructions, written in Arabic / English languages.
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
Table No. 01
Design Criteria of Five Typical Soils
Maximum absorption Maximum Septic
Required m2/L
capacity in L/m2 Tank Size
Types of Soil For leaching
(of leaching area for a Allowance
area /380L
24 hr. period) (Liters)
Coarse sand or gravel 0.005 204 28,388
Fine sand 0.006 163
Sandy loam or clay 0.010 101 18,925
Clay with considerable
0.022 45 13,248
sand or gravel
Clay with small amount
0.030 33 11,355
of sand or gravel
Table No. 02
Disposal Field
Types of Soil Minimum Maximum
Number of drain lines per field 1 -
Length of each line - 30 m
Bottom Width of trench 0.46 m 0.9 m
Spacing of lines, center to center 01.8 m -
Depth of earth cover of lines (preferred – 46 cm) 0.30 m -
Grade of lines Level 25 mm / m
Filter material under drain line 0.30 m -
Filter material over drain lines 50 mm -
Table No. 03
Air permeability vacuum test : Test Period
Test Pressure Test Period
0.1 Bar +/- 2% 60 sec. +/- 1 sec
0.2 Bar +/- 2% 30 sec. +/- 1 sec
0.3 Bar +/- 2% 15 sec. +/- 1 sec
Table No. 04
Requirements for initial type tests
Models to be tested
Requirements Each model in a A representative
range model from a range
- Over all dimension X -
1- - Inlets, Outlets & Connections X -
- Accessibility X -
2- Water tightness X -
3- Volume X -
4- Structural behavior (a)
5- Hydraulic efficiency (b)
For the purposes of the evaluation, products may be grouped into ranges
Note (a) : The biggest size will normally be selected to test.
Note (b): The smallest size will normally be selected to test
Underground Septic
System
(ADSSC)
Table No. 05
Feasibility Tests
Material of Septic Tank

Tests
Other
Concrete GRP Polyethylene
material
1. Water Test X X X X
2. Air permeability vacuum test - X - X
3. Pneumatic pressure test - X X X
END OF SECTION
Underground Septic
System

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ABU DHABI SEWERAGE SERVICES COMPANY

GENERAL SPECIFICATION FOR CIVIL WORKS

DOCUMENT CONTROL SHEET

Revision No. Date Revision Description / Purpose of Issue

00 November 2013 First Issue.

1.2 RELATED DOCUMENTS

The following sections of the specification shall be read in conjunction with

Section 01000-07 Submittals

BS EN 12566-1 Small Wastewater Treatment Systems for up to 50 PT

BS 6297 Code of practice for the design and installation of

 Uniform Plumbing Code of Abu Dhabi; Published by Environmental Agency of

 Uniform Plumbing Code; Published by International Association of Plumbing &

(Any other relevant to the other material involved)

1.4.1 PRODUCTS AND MATERIALS APPROVAL.

a) In order to verify compliance with the specification the Contractor shall

b) Conformity of the Septic Tank to the requirement of BS EN 12566 – 1,

e) Concrete protection and waterproofing systems shall comply with the

f) Construction shall be in compliance with ADSSC Specification Division 2

g) ADSSC may consider application of new materials (GRP, PE) for

h) Construction materials used throughout the Septic tank system must be

1.4.2 METHOD STATEMENTS

a) The Contractor shall submit method statements to the Engineer for

The Contractor shall submit drawings to the Engineer for approval in

a) Excavation drawings in accordance with Section 02120 of the

a) Representative samples as agreed with the Engineer must be submitted

i. Samples of Pipeline and apertures.

1.5 QUALITY CONTROL

a) Prior to dispatch of any product and/or material from source the

b) Products and materials shall be from a manufacturer/supplier who

i. Commencement of Septic Tank.

Delivery, storage and handling of products and materials shall be in

a) Delivery, storage and handling shall at all times be performed in a

A Septic Tank (prefabricated) is an alternative to a conventional on-site

2.2 PROTECTION OF DRINKING WATER SOURCE

Where site investigations identify sources of groundwater used or intended

a. risk of health hazard or nuisance;

A drainage field should not be installed in a flood plain or in seasonally

2.3 CAPACITY OF SEPTIC TANKS.

The capacity of wastewater shall be calculated as per the Table 3.2.7 of

- Waste/sewage flow, up to 5600 Liters / day

- Waste/sewage flow, over 5600 Liters / day

2.4 AREA OF DISPOSAL FIELDS AND SEEPAGE PITS.

A system shall be consisting of trenches with pipes and gravel aggregates,

d- The minimum effective absorption area in any seepage pit shall be

e- Leaching chambers shall be sized on the bottom absorption area

g- For the distribution pipes following the distribution chamber, the

h- The distribution pipes perforations should be dimensioned and spaced to

2.5 PERCOLATION TEST.

b) In order to determine the absorption qualities of seepage pits and of

c) When a percolation test is required, no disposal system shall be

2.6 SEPTIC TANK CONSTRUCTION.

b) Septic tank design shall be such as to produce a clarified effluent

c) Septic tanks shall be constructed of durable materials not subject to

the outlet. Wherever a first compartment exceeds 3.7m in length, an

j) Partitions between compartments shall be of solid, durable material and

2.7 STRUCTURAL DESIGN.

a) General : The structural behavior of the septic tank shall be determined

b) Flood Loads. In flood hazard areas, tanks shall be anchored to counter

All to comply with the requirement of EN 12566 -1 norms (latest edition)

e) Access : Septic tanks shall be securely covered to prevent unauthorized

a) Concrete Septic Tanks. The concrete used in constructing of a septic tank

b) Alternate Materials. (I) Septic tanks constructed of alternate materials shall be