What should you do if a trench you are digging for lateral placement is filling with water?

If a trench being dug for lateral placement is filling with water, the best course of action is to stop digging until the curtain drain is installed. A curtain drain is designed to redirect water away from the area, preventing accumulation of groundwater in the trench. Continuing to dig in flooded conditions can not only undermine the integrity of the trench walls, posing safety risks, but also complicate the installation process of the septic system components.

Having a properly functioning curtain drain in place ensures that excess water is managed effectively, allowing for optimal conditions for the installation of the lateral system. This helps maintain the accuracy of the trench’s depth and width, which are crucial for proper system function and effluent absorption.

Pumping out the water may seem like a quick solution, but it does not address the underlying issue of water accumulation in the area or the potential safety hazards of working in a wet trench. Similarly, cutting down the lower side of the trench may lead to more instability and erosion, which can further complicate the installation and may lead to a violation of excavation safety protocols. Therefore, waiting for the curtain drain installation is the most prudent approach to ensure a successful septic system installation.