Municipal sewer and water work isn’t for everyone. While the public enjoys clean water and reliable infrastructure, utility workers handle the tough jobs that keep everything running smoothly. Some tasks, however, are a little less glamorous than others. Here are a few of the messiest, most challenging jobs in the industry:
1. The Rag Ball Extraction
Pump stations have a way of collecting things that don’t belong — especially wipes, grease and other debris that form large, tangled masses. Removing them is a hands-on job, and on a hot summer day, it’s not the most pleasant task.
2. The Sewer Backup Cleanup
When a blockage or heavy rain overwhelms the system, sewage can back up into homes and streets. Cleaning up these situations requires skill, patience, and a strong stomach.
3. The Grit Chamber Dig-Out
Grit chambers play a crucial role in protecting equipment, but over time, they collect a heavy, sludge-like mix of sand, grease and debris. It’s a tough job to remove, but necessary to keep the system running efficiently.
4. The Storm Drain Surprise
From tree limbs to unexpected wildlife, storm drains can collect all kinds of debris. Sometimes, crews encounter animals that didn’t make it through the system, requiring careful removal.
5. The Late-Night Lift Station Call
Lift stations don’t wait for regular work hours to have issues. When an alarm goes off in the middle of the night, it often means heading out in tough conditions to troubleshoot and get things flowing again.
Every job in municipal sewer and water is important, and some just happen to be a little messier than others. What’s the toughest job you’ve had to tackle?
