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If you own or live in a property that has a septic tank and are connected to the council's Community Wastewater Management System (CWMS), then you need to be aware that 'flushable' wipes cannot be flushed! This includes all forms of wipes, toilet wipes, wet wipes, baby wipes etc, incluidng those that are marketed as being flushable!

Wipes do not break down in your septic tank and can lead to numerous problems and out of pocket expenses.

• Flushed wipes can block pipes, which can lead to sewerage overflows in and around your home.
• If your septic tank contains wipes, you may find it cannot be pumped out by normal methods.
• Council's contractor may refuse to empty your septic tank if it is found to be contaminated with wipes or any other prohibited item. The septic tank will be required to be emptied by an Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) licensed contractor, at your own expense.
• Wipes discharged to your septic tank may cause solids to overflow into the CWMS infrastructure, causing blockages in pipes and pump stations.
• Your annual CWMS charge could increase as a result of these blockages driving up operational and maintenance costs.

Other prohibited items;

These items are prohibited and must not be discharged into your septic system;

• storm water, including roof and rainwater tank overflow, and surface drainage waters
• back flush waters from a swimming pool or water softener
• discharge or back flush from a spa bath or pool in excess of 680L capacity
• sanitary napkins, liners, clothing and plastic material
• trade waste, including wastewater contaminated with substances such as grease, oils, solids and chemicals
• petrol or other flammable or explosive substances, whether solid, liquid or gas
• medical waste and sharps
• any other matter or substance which would impair the effective working of the CWMS.

REMEMBER;

All wipes, including those marketed as flushable are prohibited from being discharged into your septic tank as they do not break down as specified. Remind any family and friends not to flush wipes down the toilet.

Bin them, don't flush them!

* information provided by City of Onkaparinga (read the information here) - for more information please contact the Community Health team on 8384 0666 or email mail@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au