8.5.4 Soak Pits
A soak pit is a hole or pit dug into the ground, lined with concrete rings or bricks, to provide structural support and prevent collapse. Once wastewater enters the soak pit, it percolates or infiltrates into the surrounding soil. The surrounding soil should be porous and well-draining to allow for effective wastewater absorption. Soak pits are not recommended for urban or emergency settings and should only be utilised if no other sewage or wastewater disposal methods are available.
Soak Pits are best suited for soil with good absorptive properties; clay, hard packed or rocky soil is not appropriate.
The following table summarises the recommended design criteria for soak pits.
| Design Criteria | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Depth of pit | 1.5 – 4.0 m |
| Distance to water source | >30 m |
| Level above groundwater table | >2.0 m |
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