What is essential to ensure before installing an OSSF drainage system?

Before installing an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) drainage system, knowledge of soil conditions is crucial. Understanding the soil type, texture, permeability, and other physical and chemical properties is vital to determine how effectively the system can function. The drainage system relies heavily on soil to filter and treat wastewater. If the soil isn’t suitable, it can lead to system failure, health risks, and environmental contamination. Hence, conducting a thorough assessment of the soil conditions ensures that the chosen technology and installation methods correspond effectively to the site's characteristics.

While visual inspection, government approval, and soil moisture testing are important steps in the overall process, they do not replace the foundational need for an understanding of soil conditions, which directly influences the performance and sustainability of the OSSF system.