Attach 2 - Cleaning Recreation Sites.pdf

United States Department of Agriculture

Forest Service

Technology & Development Program

2300—Recreation December 1995

9523 1206—SDTDC

CLEANING

RECREATION

SITES

FOREST SERVICE

DE

P A RTMENT OF AGRICU L T UR

E

CLEANING

RECREATION

SITES

DECEMBER 1995

William Makel Program Leader

San Dimas Technology and Development Center

Gary Hoshide Program Leader

Missoula Technology and Development Center

James Kautz Audio-Visual Production Specialist

Missoula Technology and Development Center

Technology & Development Program San Dimas, CA 91773

4E41A08

Information contained in this document has been developed for the guidance of employees of the Forest Service, USDA, its contractors, and its cooperating Federal and State agencies.

The Department of Agriculture assumes no responsibility for the interpretation or use of this information by other than its own employees. The use of trade, firm , or corporation names is for the information and convenience of the reader. Such use does not constitute an official evaluation , conclusion, recommendation, endorsement, or approval of any product or service to the exclusion of others that may be suitable.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact the USDA Office of Communications at 202-720-2791.

To file a complaint, write the Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250 or call 202-720-7327 (voice) or 202-720-1127 (TDD). USDA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

CAUTION: Pesticides can be injurious to humans, domestic animals, desirable plants, and fish or other wildlife—if they are not handled or applied properly. Use all pesticides selectively and carefully. Follow recommended practices for the disposal of surplus pesticides and pesticide containers.

Format: (If you believe the format of this publication could be improved, please list your specific recommendations below.)

Corrections: (If you find inaccuracies or incomplete information we would appreciate it if you would identify those for us.)

Additions: (If you would like to suggest future additions, please note them.)

C O M M E N T

S H E E T

PLEASE FOLD AND MAIL

Attn: Program Leader, Recreation USDA Forest Service San Dimas Technology and Development Center 444 East Bonita Avenue San Dimas, CA 91773

Preface The basic ideas for this publication are traced back to a 1972 cooperative project between San Dimas Equipment Development & Testing Center and Region 2 (R-2). In 1974, the San Dimas Technology and Development Center (formerly, the San Dimas Equipment Development & Testing Center) published the first Service-wide guide titled, “Cleaning Recreation Sites.” In subsequent years, the publication has been revised to update manufacturer sources listed in the appendix. The last revision was completed in 1988 and issued with the title, “Cleaning Recreation Sites...an update.”

Legislation promoting cultural diversity, occupational safety and health, and accessibility make it necessary to adapt the information to these evolving programs. To meet the needs of today’s work force, this publication was updated to visually highlight newer facilities and technologies applicable to cleaning recreation sites.

Acknowledgments The Forest Service thanks its employees and cooperators whose ideas and expertise make this publication a useful tool for others to use. Special recognition is given to retired Forest Service employees Dick Spray, Briar Cook, and Jeanie Irwin for their work on previous editions of this publication.

This revision was completed through a collaborative effort between the staff at San Dimas and Missoula Technology and Development Centers.

We like to thank Janie Ybarra, Sue Cox, Susan Clements, Brenda Holland, Hans Wilbrecht, and Bob Beckley for assisting in the preparation of the publication.

A special thanks to Donald and Barbara Dalton, Eddie Rieb, Florence Emery, and Roberto Ybarra on the Tonto Basin Ranger District for their participation in the photographs.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................i

PUBLIC SERVICE

Cleaning and Policing Standards

Maintenance

Frequency and Management

How To Do The Job

Disposing of Chemicals

Personal Hygiene and Protective Equipment and Clothing

CLEANING WASTE FACILITIES

Vault Toilets

Safety and Sanitation

Odor Control

Insect Control

Composting Toilets

Safety and Sanitation

Chemical Recirculating & Chemical Toilets

Safety and Sanitation

Chemical Recirculating Toilets

Chemical Toilet

Flush Toilets

Safety and Sanitation

Showers and Dressing Areas

Safety and Sanitation

Recreational Vehicle Sanitary Dump Stations

Safety and Sanitation

Garbage Containers

Safety and Sanitation

Single Unit Container

Multi Unit Bins

Dumpsters

CLEANING OTHER FACILITIES

Fish Cleaning Stations

Safety and Sanitation

Tables

Safety and Sanitation

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Fire Rings and Grills

Safety and Sanitation

Fire Rings

Grills

Water Hydrants

Safety and Sanitation

Recreation Grounds

Safety and Sanitation

Signs

Visitor Information Boards

Rock and Masonry

Safety and Sanitation

Pressure Washers

Safety and Sanitation

Vault and Compost Toilets

Chemical and Chemical Recirculating Toilets

Flush Toilets and Urinals

Picnic Tables

Grills

BIBLIOGRAPHY

APPENDIX A—Tools And Materials

APPENDIX B—Sources Of Supply

APPENDIX C—Cleaning Compounds

APPENDIX D—Recreation Site Inspection Checklist

APPENDIX E—Job Hazard Analysis Form

NOTES

INTRODUCTION

This publication is for the use of recreation managers, designers, aides, volunteers, and other Forest Service personnel involved in recreation activities. Recreation managers can use this information to implement “Meaningful Measures”1 and to better organize tools, equipment, supplies, and procedures for recreation maintenance personnel. Recreation site designers can use this information along with other pertinent guidelines to satisfy all aspects of site development, construction, and use. Recreation aids, volunteers, and other Forest Service personnel can use this information to become more efficient and effective at cleaning and policing recreation sites.

There are several elements of recreation management that, when properly applied, can contribute to efficient and effective cleaning and policing. Some are briefly discussed below.

1. The location and design of a recreation site can have a considerable effect on cleaning and policing efficiency. Factors that are somewhat controllable at the time of site selection and design, such as crew travel time, job load on the site, use of easy-to-clean materials in building facilities, and location of facilities relative to equipment access, have considerable influence on cleaning and policing. Tradeoffs must be made as any design cannot just concentrate on optimizing cleaning and policing, but it should be a major consideration.

2. Modification and/or new design of existing recreation site facilities can often replace difficult-to-clean improvements with new, easier-to-clean systems. Sometimes this can be accomplished at a cost savings, such as the replacement of easily vandalized stainless steel vault toilet risers with the new vandal-resistant, less expensive, cross-linked polyethylene risers.

3. Properly selected materials for heavy maintenance can greatly ease the cleaning job.

Examples are the use of hard, impervious coatings on toilet interiors and floors, and the restoration of wood tabletops with easy-to-clean fiberglass shells instead of using paint or stain.

4. Management techniques, such as the use of mechanized cleaning equipment, controlling the number of camp units open for use to the actual demand, proper sizing of crews, task organization, and many others, will have a great effect on cleaning and policing efficiency and effectiveness.

There are several techniques and many types of equipment that can be combined to perform the required job. Different geographical areas have access to various equipment, materials, and supplies, and different people have numerous ideas on how to utilize them. Thus, the objective of this publication is to offer some cleaning and policing techniques that will result in performing the job satisfactorily and also to stimulate thought processes that will innovate even better techniques for cleaning and policing.

1 Meaningful Measures (MM) is a six step process. The concept builds on forest plan direction by describing a total recreation program of work, then determining the cost needed to manage at predetermined standards. Once the total picture is known, realistic goals and priorities, consistent with current and expected funding levels, are set. The information resulting from implementing the MM process is then used to report accomplishments in the Forest Service Infrastructure database. For more information on MM, contact the National MM coordinator or your Regional Recreation Staff.

i

PUBLIC SERVICE

Even though the Forest Service is a large organization with many employees, the average visitor will often judge the entire Forest Service based on the action of a single employee. If this employee is rude or inefficient, it will take considerable kindness and efficiency by other employees to overcome this one bad impression, and a bad experience may never be erased from the memory of some visitors.

Therefore, YOU become the most important member of the Forest Service more often than you realize. You are constantly in the view of visitors who may have no other contact with the Forest Service. What our visitors think of the Forest Service depends on the character of service rendered by you and your co-workers.

Not everyone can willingly, cheerfully, and effectively clean up another person’s mess. Not everyone can cheerfully and tactfully withstand the public’s diverse attitudes. Considerable time and effort has been spent selecting employees who will do recreation clean-up work. Be proud you have been selected.

You must always be a good host by being courteous and helpful to everyone at all times. You must also recognize that in the final analysis the public appreciates a busy employee. Leave the impression that you are friendly and helpful, but also a person with a busy schedule. Remember, visitor satisfaction depends on the service you and your co-workers provide.

Be a good HOST!

Here are a few hints that, if followed, can help those who meet the public to present himself or herself and the Forest Service to the public:

1.How do you look to others? Employees, permittees, and volunteers should maintain a well groomed appearance with a neat haircut or style. Hair styles should be acceptable to wearing a hard hat. Clothes should be neat, well kept and clean within the limits of the job. Specific dress code will be given by each supervisor. If a uniform is authorized, avoid mixing uniform components with civilian attire.

2.How do you act toward others? You are rendering a service when you help people, and you must have the attitude to render assistance when needed. Do this with a smile, be courteous, and try to help. When assistance has been provided, go back to your other duties promptly.

3.How is your housekeeping? Your equipment, supplies, and vehicle should be neat and orderly, and clean (when possible) within the limits of the job. The cab of your vehicle should always be clean and neat.

4.Do you practice what you preach? We cannot make one rule for the public and another for ourselves. If we are going to enforce the rules, we must set an example. Watch speed limits and traffic control signs within and outside recreation sites. They apply to you.

5.How do you answer questions? Employees must always answer questions cheerfully, courteously, and tactfully. Direct the person to someone else or admit you do not know, if you cannot answer the question. The wrong answer to a question can only lead to problems.

6.How well do you serve the public? A complete first aid kit should be in the vehicle and you should have better than average knowledge of its use. Questions can be answered by supplying various types of printed literature and area maps or making professional maps available to the public. Maintain a supply with you and be familiar with their content so you can fill a visitor’s needs. Do not merely hand out literature. Point out where the needed information is found in the map or printed literature. Fire extinguishers should be kept in the vehicle and constantly checked to assure that they will be operational when needed.

7.How do you explain rules and regulations? Most rule violations occur because people are not aware of the rule or cannot see the purpose it serves. Take the time to explain the reason for a particular rule or regulation—ask people to pass this along to other campers as a favor to you. Thank them for helping you in your job and, if possible, compliment them on a noticeably good point in their camp unit. Remember, most of our visitors have an urban background, which may give them a point of view or attitude that may be hard for us to understand. Build understanding. Teaching forest etiquette will save many cleanup dollars in the long run.

You will receive complaints on the rehabilitation of campgrounds, closing of campground loops, and closing off waterfront zones—these are common complaints that are caused mainly by a lack of information or understanding of the problem. Old-time campers remember the days, free of restrictions, when they could camp where they pleased, cut trees, toss garbage, and hunt and fish with little or no limits. This pioneering tradition dies hard. Times change.

Conquest of the land and, conversely, land available for conquest, has come to an end because of population pressures, more leisure time available, and the growing popularity of outdoor recreation. In place of the pioneering tradition, try to encourage the “land ethic”—the love of land so that each action by a person in the woods is self–judged as to its potential harm or good to the land.

By encouragement and example of the land ethic by schools, conservation education, outdoor clubs, etc., and you as the sole Forest Service representative to many visitors, in time, enforcement and explanation of rules and regulations may become less necessary.

Many levels of developed campgrounds are available to visitors. Sometimes campers get into a campground that doesn’t suit their tastes. It is too primitive, or it is overdeveloped. What pleases the beginning camper may not please the “Pro” at all. All levels of development are necessary to serve different tastes and needs. When you run into complaints about the appropriateness of a campground, try to explain, then recommend a campground more suitable to the camper’s desires.

Campground hosts and recreation aides are not to expound their personal views on Forest Service policy to the public if they are not in accord with that policy. Campground hosts and recreation aides may have many responsibilities; including welcoming visitors, locking gates, cleaning rest rooms, providing information, and performing minor maintenance. All responsibilities should be conducted with a smile. Be positive with the public. If problems occur let your supervisor know.

Cleaning and Policing Standards Cleaning and policing should be performed with sufficient regularity and consistency at each developed site to give the overall appearance of being clean and sanitary, free of litter, neat in appearance, and well kept by minor maintenance.

Application of Meaningful Measures (MM) requires reporting accomplishments as “To Standard” or “Not to Standard” for each measurable component2 and Key Measure3 Managing “To Standard” refers to meeting the standards of quality developed for each Key Measure of each measurable component. If resources available are not adequate to meet the standard of quality for ALL the Key Measures, then management of the measurable component is reported as “Not to Standard”. The result displays the measurable components and Key Measures that meet or do not meet visitor preference, policy, and legal requirements. The following are established Key Measures:

Health and Cleanliness

• Healthy environment for users and employees.

• No threat of diseases or infection.

• Odor Free.

• Litter Free.

Setting

• Site development is consistent with Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) objectives and Forest Land Management Plan (FLMP) development scale.

• Resources are maintained or enhanced.

• Scenery management is consistent with objectives.

• Density of Users is appropriate.

Safety and Security

• Safe environment for users and employees.

• Uniformed Forest Service Personnel are present.

• Abusive and nonconforming activities are controlled.

• Risk of crime is eliminated.

Responsiveness

• Experience meets expectations, needs, and preferences.

• Information and interpretive services are available.

• Appropriate unique amenities are available.

• Good hosting.

Condition of Facilities and Equipment

• They look good.

• They are in good repair.

• They are appropriate.

• They function.

Special attention should be given to making toilets clean and sanitary. It is the one common facility that receives the most use and the one common place most probable for disease transmission.

2 "Measurable Components" or Components are major categories of recreation opportunities produced. Each component can be a single area or site, or a group of areas or sites having the same unit of measure and types of recreation products. A simple example of a component is a campground.

3 "Key Measures" gauge quality. Standards of quality are developed from visitor input, policy, plans, and legal requirements for each designated component. Initially the quality standards are set by local managers who are knowledgeable of conditions and use patterns. 3

For the total operation of the recreation site refer to the Forest’s Operation and Maintenance Plan.

The following standards should be met in sites offering services to the public. These standards are necessary to ensure a pleasant recreation experience for the visitor.

1.Toilets, showers, and dressing areas ✔ Toilet bowls, risers, seats, seat covers, and urinals free of deposits on surfaces ✔ Building interiors free of dirt, trash, graffiti, insects (dead and alive), and spider webs ✔ Floors free of standing water ✔ Chromeware clean and bright ✔ Toilet paper, towels, and seat covers (where provided), stocked to last until next day and/ or cleaning ✔ Unpleasant odors (both sewage and chemical) minimized.

2. Toilets and other buildings (exterior) ✔ Walkways and trails clean and clear of obstructions for public safety and accommodating people with disability

✔ Floor mats clean

✔ Exterior walls free of graffiti

✔ Roof generally free of leaves and branches

✔ Eaves free of wasp nests, bird nests, and spider webs.

3. Toilet vaults ✔ Vaults not more than three-fourths full ✔ During pumping, the vaults should be cleaned as thoroughly as possible to help prevent the production of odors.

4. Tables and benches

✔ Tops and seats free of dirt, grease, and large carvings

✔ Under portion free of spider webs, etc.

✔ Tops, seats, and legs secure and functional.

5. Fireplaces, char-grills, fire rings, and stoves

✔ No more than half-full of ashes

✔ All ashes and partially burned wood confined to fireplace or grill

✔ Grill surface free of grease and food particles at time of ash removal

✔ Pedestals and bases straight and secure, and components functional

✔ Leftover firewood stacked beside unit.

6. Garbage cans and depositories ✔ Plastic liner half-full or less ✔ Emptied within 7 days ✔ Cans clean on the outside. All litter and debris picked up around cans or container.

7. Hand-pumps, fountains, and hydrants ✔ All units free of grease or residue ✔ All units secure and drip-free ✔ Catch basins (drains) free of food particles, soaps, grease, debris, standing water, and functioning properly

✔ All fixtures and facilities meet applicable standards. Threaded faucets removed ✔ Fixtures disinfected as necessary ✔ Water tests meet applicable standards.

8. Grounds ✔ Generally free of trash, bottles, cans, glass, and obvious litter ✔ Family units free of all litter, including bottle caps, flip tops, and cigarette butts ✔ Trees free of nails, rope, wire, hazard branches, etc.

✔ Managed, planted lawns maintained according to operations and maintenance (O&M) plan

✔ Steps, decks, and ramps free of loose boards, loose nails, and slick spots

✔ All tripping hazards eliminated.

9. Signs, posters, bulletin boards, and information boards ✔ All signs bright, straight, and secure ✔ Signs, bulletin boards, and visitor information boards free of holes, blemishes, random staples, nails, etc.

✔ Signs and posters fresh, and provide up-to-date information (e.g., current maps, emergency information, applicable recreation site regulations) ✔ Area around sign posts free of weeds and brush, unless part of the planned landscaping ✔ Posters kept to minimum ✔ No unauthorized signs, posters, or bulletins shall be attached to buildings.

Maintenance All personnel should be alert for minor maintenance needs. Performing “on the spot” maintenance often prevents serious problems later. Examples of such projects are:

1. Replacing gaskets in leaky faucets.

2. Straightening a signpost.

3. Tightening door hinges.

4. Minor drainage work to protect the site.

5. Remove all nails, ropes, poles, and wire from trees and facilities.

6. Perform minor work to wood facilities to eliminate recurring splinters.

Major maintenance items that cannot be taken care of immediately should be reported to the appropriate authority. A recreation site inspection checklist is provided in Appendix D.

Frequency and Management Frequency for performing the various cleanings and policing tasks must be determined by site managers. Recognize that there will be times when, because of occupancy by the public, it will not be possible to clean or police a given facility. In these cases, considering the severity of the situation, treatment can be postponed until the next reasonable time. However, items of work needed for safety or sanitation should not be postponed. Thus, cleaning the living area of a camp unit will be postponed until the unit is next vacant. On the other hand, if a toilet needs cleaning, other work in the area should be done until the toilet is vacated, rather than postponing the cleaning until the next day. Site managers should maintain close contact with use patterns to vary the frequency of cleaning and policing treatment to meet the existing conditions. Managers can vary frequency of treatment by:

visits.

success when developed on a well planned basis including informing the public.

How To Do The Job A recreation site that is clean and well maintained is easier to keep in that condition, since visitors are more cooperative when they are pleased with clean facilities. This also deters vandalism. One of the target areas for vandalism is “property that tends to be derelict, incomplete, or badly kept.”

Facilities have been divided into two sections to separate the tools and materials into two kits, Cleaning Waste Facilities and Cleaning Other Facilities. The tools, materials, and procedures that follow have been derived from Service-wide sources and from professional janitorial firms and have been demonstrated to do a superior job. Deviations should be carefully considered for their potential effect on safety, effectiveness, sanitation, and cost and should not be applied unless there is overwhelming evidence that they represent improvement.

Disposing of Chemicals During the cleaning process throughout each site there will be cleaning agents and chemicals needing disposal. Each site’s waste disposal practice and landscape is different, so no standard guideline is given for the disposal of cleaning agents and various chemicals. The Forest Recreation Staff Officer, in conjunction with the Engineering Staff, should establish which types and concentrations of cleaners and chemicals are to be used for the required tasks as well as the requirements for disposal of the cleaning residue. Indiscriminate dumping of these cleaners or chemicals into toilets or vaults might upset entire treatment plants and/or septic tank leech field systems.

CAUTION: Mixing cleaning products can produce fatal chemical reactions. Read all product labels for instruction on use and disposal. A copy of the product materials safety data sheet (MSDS) should be on file and made available to the users.

Personal Hygiene and Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing Work supervisors have the responsibility for providing a healthful work environment for every worker. This includes informing workers of the hazards associated with performing assigned cleaning tasks. The “Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)” serves to document this information and addresses personal hygiene and engineering controls for prevention and protection against personal injuries. A JHA form is provided in Appendix E. Workers who routinely come into contact with wastewater, or work in or inspect wastewater treatment facilities, should have a current immunization for tetanus and also practice good personal hygiene.

NOTE: Respirators, when required, must be used in accordance with an approved respirator program prepared in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration

(OSHA) regulations. Contact your Safety and Health Manager before using any respirator to ensure procedure for training, fit testing, and medical requirements are in compliance.

Inform workers of job hazards and the use of protective equipment and clothing.

Safety for the public is priority. Use warning devices to mark danger where practical.

Practice universal precautions when encountering suspected infectious waste.

Wearing disposable gloves provides protection, and is recommended even under a leather glove.

Be familiar with established unit procedures for handling and disposing of known or suspected infectious wastes.

Infectious waste should be placed in marked containers and disposed of separately.

The agency or unit exposure control plan provides additional information on disposal and procedures to follow in case of exposure.

Wash with soap and water after removing personal protective equipment and before eating.

Practicing personal hygiene prevents infectious injuries.

If wash facilities are unavailable provide alternate means of washing.

...or use disposable towelettes.

However, follow-up with soap and water at the first opportunity, because towelettes contain alcohol which removes natural skin oils and results in dry chapped hands. Moisturizer supplements help replenish moisture to dry chapped skin.

Recommended Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing:

✔ Hard hat (Class B protection) ✔ Hearing protection (disposable foam type) ✔ Eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) ✔ Mouth protection (dust/mist respirator) ✔ Disposable gloves ✔ Rubber gloves ✔ Leather gloves ✔ Knee pads ✔ Rubber boots ✔ Apron ✔ Coveralls ✔ High visibility reflective vest

CLEANING WASTE FACILITIES

NOTICE

The lead-in page of each subsection contains a list of suggested tools and materials to do the job. The number(s) in parentheses ( ) following each tool or material is a locator for a more detailed description of the item in Appendix A.

Since these facilities (toilets and garbage cans) are potentially contaminated with disease causing bacteria they should be cleaned separately. Use different tools and materials than those used for cleaning Other Facilities. An effective method to alert maintenance personnel to use the right tools for the right job is to color code all tools. Also, using the right tools will help eliminate the possibility of cross-contamination of those tools used for Other Facilities.

VAULT TOILETS

✔ Rags (41) ✔ Mop Bucket & Wringer (16) ✔ Putty Knife (34) ✔ Dustpan (24) ✔ Deodorant (22, 23) ✔ Toilet Bowl Cleaner (19) ✔ Broom (7, 8) ✔ Double Bucket (14) ✔ Measuring Cup (21) ✔ Toilet Paper (56) ✔ Sponge (54) ✔ Scouring Pad (47) ✔ 3D Solution (17) ✔ Pesticide (38,39) ✔ Dusting Brush (10a) ✔ Toilet Seat Covers (57) ✔ Toilet Riser Brush (12a) ✔ Mop (37) ✔ Floor Signs or Markers (27) ✔ Personal Protective Equipment (as recommended in JHA)

Safety and Sanitation While performing routine maintenance watch for splinters, protruding nails, torn screen or hardware cloth, loose screws on door hinges and toilet paper dispensers, tripping hazards on walkways and around site, etc. Correct hazards as you go along.

The 3D (detergent, disinfectant, and deodorant) solution in proper strength is not hazardous to handle, but most toilet bowl cleaners are. Read the labels of all chemicals; follow instructions;

and pay particular attention to disposing of used and unused cleaning agents and chemicals.

Always install insecticide and deodorant blocks where children cannot reach them.

Prevent slippery floors by removing water, sand particles, etc. If the process is followed according to the illustrations below, less time will be required to do the job.

VAULT TOILETS

Provide for public safety. When propping the door open use a wooden wedge or other device specifically made for such application. In the past, rocks have been used for this purpose, but they created tripping hazards for the public and have often found their way to the bottom of vaults.

Pick up all scrap paper and refuse on the trail to the toilet and on the toilet floor. Never throw scrap paper or refuse into the vault. The constant addition of these items in the vault significantly increases the difficulty of pumping.

Carefully sweep the floor, paying particular attention to the corners. Pick up all material with a dustpan. Do not sweep small litter, etc., out the door or throw it into the vault.

Dust vent louvers to keep the return air flow clear of obstructions. Also, remember to dust other catch areas, such as window sills, rafters, tops of partitions, and other flat surfaces. Remove all cobwebs and insect nests.

Replace space deodorant as needed.

Scrape gum, etc., from floor with a putty knife.

Mix a solution of 3D (disinfectant, deodorant, and detergent) in one side of a double bucket. Have clear water in the other side. Use a measuring cup to measure the proper amount of 3D concentrate recommended by the manufacturer. Dilutions vary from 1:20 to about 1:120, depending on the amount of soil encountered and the disinfecting desired. However, always use a measuriing cup, because unneeded detergent or disinfectant will not do a better job—it will be wasted and make your job more difficult. Always read the label and follow instructions for proper use and safety to the user and the public.

Wipe or scrub (as needed) all walls, using a 3D soaked brush and sponge. Use the abrasive side of the sponge where necessary on stubborn marks after the detergent has had a chance to loosen the mark. Rinse the sponge in clear water before dipping it into the 3D solution again.

This step will keep the 3D solution clean and effective. It is not necessary to rinse the 3D solution from the walls unless soil is heavy. It will provide residual disinfecting and deodorant action. If wash basins are provided, use the fresh 3D solution to clean the basins first, but do not use the same sponge for the walls and toilets.

Mop floor at least once a week with 3D solution or as often as necessary to maintain a clean smear-free floor. Dry mop, squeegee or wet-vacuum the floor to leave it as dry as possible. Change mop bucket 3D solution often; dirty solution

Use a long-handled riser brush soaked with loses its effectiveness.

3D solution or toilet bowl cleaner to clean the inside of the toilet riser. It is important to keep the interior of the riser clean not only for sanitary reasons but also to help prevent odors. The toilet riser shown in the illustrations is an alternative to the previously used stainless steel riser. For information on this riser, refer to Equip Tips 8823 1301, “Update-Cross-Linked Vault Toilet Riser,” March 1988.

The toilet seats and covers should always be free of stains and soil marks. Replace or repaint seats and covers if noticeable marks cannot be removed. Use a sponge, brush, and/or scouring pad soaked in 3D solution to scrub the outside of the toilet riser and both sides of the seat and cover. Pay particular attention to the hinge area. Remember do not use this sponge, brush, or scouring pad for cleaning wash basins or the items included under other facilities.

Check toilet paper supply and replace as necessary. Also, pay particular attention to the selection of toilet paper dispensers. Empty dispensers invite vandalism. Too much consumption is uneconomical, wasteful, difficult for the sewage pumper to remove, and difficult for biological treatment systems to digest.

Multiple dispensers that do not allow the roll of paper to rotate will solve most of the problems and still give the user an adequate amount. Such devices however, may not meet accessibility needs. The site manager must consider the trade-offs. The use of individual tissue dispensers is not recommended, neither is placing partially used rolls on top of newly installed rolls because they either end up missing or thrown into the vault. A lock-bar toilet paper dispenser similar to the one illustrated is still available, and a new retrofit adapter for making the dispenser accessible is also available.

NOTE: when installing the lock bar dispenser be sure to mount the lock away from the toilet to reduce vandalism of the lock. Mount the toilet paper roll on the bar as shown—allowing the paper to unroll off the top and drape in front where it can be easily grasped by the user.

Odor Control Toilet Vaults Most odor problems are associated with vault or pit-type toilets. The construction, type, size, or material of the vault is unimportant, with the exception of concrete. (Concrete vaults are porous and absorb and retain odors.) It is important to know that there are many square feet of waste surface, not including the exposed waste usually left on the vault walls, under the large opening of the toilet riser. The vent system is often too small and cannot overcome the draft up through the toilet riser. This allows strong, unpleasant odors to enter the toilet compartment. However, modern technology has established new design criteria for vault toilet buildings, which greatly reduces the reverse ventilation problems that were the primary cause of odor in the user compartment.

Odor is caused by bacterial action on the waste mass. There are two forms of bacterial action, anaerobic and aerobic. Anaerobic action is typical of septic tanks and takes place in the absence of oxygen. Aerobic action takes place in the presence of oxygen. Aerobic action is typical of aerated sewage treatment plants and requires oxygen. Anaerobic action is characterized by strong odors; aerobic action is relatively odorless.

It is impractical to introduce enough oxygen into the concentrated waste mass to create an aerobic condition. Temperatures and pH, also difficult to control, are important environmental factors in the growth of bacteria. Therefore, additions of aerobic bacteria or enzymes can only be of negligible benefit to the surface of the waste mass and should not be used.

Suppression of odor by chemical means is not recommended because of the chemicals negative effect on the final treatment process. Many treatment plant operators will not even accept chemically treated wastes. Also, strong, unpleasant chemical odors often result from the use of bactericides.

There are many chemicals on the market for use in vault- type toilets. When considering the purchase of deodorants be guided by your nose, the total cost of the treatment and the method of application. Make sure that the product is truly a deodorant and not an additive to treat the waste. Dosages and frequency of application should be determined from manufacturer’s instructions, from a good deal of experience, and constant checking with the nose. For additional information on Vault toilet additives refer to the publication: Do Biological and Chemical Additives Really Control Vault Toilet Odor?

Toilet Compartments

Odor control with deodorants is recommended. Space deodorants in an appropriate diffuser should be used in toilet buildings including flush toilets. There are two general types of deodorants that suppress odor by working on the odor molecule. One masks the odor and the other combines with the bad odor to form a new more pleasant odor or neutralizes it entirely. Both are effective in making the toilet compartment more pleasant. Diffusers should be placed out of reach, and if possible, out of sight. Sometimes a heavy wire screen must be used to protect the diffusers from theft or vandalism.

Insect Control Flies can be more objectionable than odor in vault and pit-type toilets. Every effort should be made to eliminate flies. According to information from the field, maintaining a water level in the vault instead of allowing the waste material to mound up is an effective method to reduce flies.

This prevents the flies from laying their eggs in the waste mass.

The “No-Pest” strips provide easy, safe, and effective control. One strip, removed from its cardboard diffuser, cut in half, and tacked high in the rafters of the toilet compartment should provide adequate control of flies. Another method of using the strip is to attach it to the bottom of the toilet riser with a stiff wire so that it hangs into the vault but away from the waste impact pattern. Wear gloves when handling “No-Pest” strips. Follow all precautions carefully.

Insect type and population vary across the country. Directions and procedures for other insects (wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, etc.) should be available on a local level for the maintenance personnel.

COMPOSTING TOILETS

✔ Rags (41) ✔ Mop Bucket & Wringer (16) ✔ Putty Knife (34) ✔ Dustpan (24) ✔ Deodorant (22) ✔ Toilet Bowl Cleaner (19) ✔ Broom (7, 8) ✔ Double Bucket (14) ✔ Measuring Cup (21) ✔ Toilet Paper (56) ✔ Sponge (54) ✔ 3D Solution (17) ✔ Bleach (6) ✔ Pesticide (38,39) ✔ Dusting Brush (10a) ✔ Toilet Seat Covers (57) ✔ Toilet Riser Brush (12a) ✔ Mop (37) ✔ Floor Signs or Markers (27) ✔ Litter Picker (36) ✔ Sharps Container (49) ✔ Personal Protective Equipment (as recommended in JHA)

Safety and Sanitation Many of the precautions for cleaning vault toilets apply to cleaning compost toilets. However, the cleaning staff responsible for removing non-degradable debris from the composter should use considerable caution because the work involves potential contact with fecal waste. Also, there is a higher risk of exposure to infectious diseases, infectious rodent bites, and fleas.

Other safety considerations may include hazardous access to the toilet basement or poisonous insects in and around the composter. Refer to the JHA for site specific hazards that may apply to your conditions.

CAUTION: OHSA Permit-Required Confined Spaces for General Industry regulations (29 CFR Part 1910.146) may apply to some composting toilet buildings, specifically, where entrance to the basement uses a vertical ladder to access the building basement housing the composter unit. The JHA should address hazards and procedures for working in permit-required confined space.

COMPOSTING TOILETS

Clean the user compartment of composting toilets in the same manner as you would a vault toilet. If possible, avoid using too much 3D solution when scrubbing the interior of the toilet riser.

Excessive 3D solution entering the composter unit may upset or inhibit the composting of the waste over time.

(NOTE: Before cleaning the composter, close the toilet seat lids and temporarily lock the restroom doors. The closed toilet seat lids ensures maximum air flows into the composter when the cleaning access door is opened.) Remove all non-degradable debris deposited in the composter. Wearing disposable dust and mist respirators is recommended as they protect against contact with flies and serve as a reminder against accidentally touching the mouth with contaminated hands.

Dispose of syringes in a marked sharps container.

Sharps containers are commercially available. Any container used for disposing infectious waste must be marked with a label bearing the “biohazard” symbol.

Keep tools sanitized following use.

CHEMICAL & CHEMICAL RECIRCULATING TOILETS

✔ Measuring Cup (21)

✔ Dusting Brush (10a)

✔ Rubber Gloves (29)

✔ 3D Solution (17)

✔ Toilet Brush (11)

✔ Sponge (54)

✔ Double Bucket (14)

✔ Squeegee (55)

✔ Putty Knife (34)

✔ Toilet Paper (56)

✔ Dustpan (24)

✔ Personal Protective Equipment (as recommended in JHA)

Safety and Sanitation Use caution when working with toilet chemicals. In the past, many of the chemicals used in chemical and chemical recirculating toilets contained formaldehyde, a suspected carcinogen.

This danger has resulted in some states prohibiting the sale or use of formaldehyde products.

Follow the prescribed engineering controls in the JHA if handling chemical additives and follow the manufacturer’s recommended practices for the toilet system in use. A copy of the current materials safety data sheet (MSDS) should be readily available.

Chemical Toilets During chemical toilet use, no additional chemical is added mechanically. Consequently the precharged chemical may not remain effective for the time it takes to fill the holding tank.

Pump-out schedules may have to be based on odor production rather than when the tank is full unless measures are taken to periodically add chemicals or modify the venting system. The toilet contents are pumped through the toilet seat opening. Care should be taken not to contaminate the interior of the building during pumping.

Chemical Recirculating Toilets Chemical recirculating toilets can be electric, air-operated, foot-pedal operated, or hand-lever operated. The principle is all the same. The holding tank is precharged with a predetermined amount of chemical and water. When the toilet is flushed, a

A chemical toilet is simply a mixture of precharged chemical, water, and waste material (a holding tank with a toilet colored dye helps to visually obscure small waste particles) is seat on the top and no bowl recirculated in the bowl to discharge the new waste material.

between the seat and the With each flush some systems dispense a small amount of waste material. The system is chemical in addition to the precharged chemical. When the precharged with chemical holding tank is full, the contents have to be removed by and water and requires the pumping or discharging into a lower, larger container.

same cleaning procedures as do chemical recirculating toilets.

NOTE: The following procedures are for demonstration purposes only.

Additional personal protective equipment and clothing, such as long sleeved shirt, apron, goggles, mouth protection and rubberized boots are recommended during the handling of chemical additives and protection against potential direct contact with fecal waste.

On newer models, the top lifts— allowing easier access to the bottom discharge system. Cleaning the waste material from the holding tanks is critical for maintaining a reasonably odor-free toilet.

Some of the earlier model chemical recirculating toilets had small access holes for pumping. If these systems are still in use, consider making special adapters for pumping the tanks. Every effort should be made to do a thorough cleaning job.

Pick up all large paper pieces and miscellaneous trash on floor.

Sweep the interior clean.

Flush the toilet once or twice to help loosen any accumulated fecal matter on the bowl.

Use a stiff brush with a 3D solution to thoroughly clean the bowl area. Use a 3D solution to clean the toilet seat, surrounding platform, and particularly the seat hinge area.

Use a 3D solution for cleaning the wall of the enclosure.

Rinse well and sponge dry.

Use a scrub brush and 3D solution to clean the small floor area.

Make sure toilet paper dispensers are securely fastened and refill with paper as needed. Toilet paper dispensers should be the type that discourages excessive use, yet provides reasonable access.

FLUSH TOILETS

✔ Measuring Cup (21) ✔ Dustpan (24) ✔ Double Bucket (14) ✔ Putty Knife (34) ✔ Toilet Bowl Cleaner (19) ✔ 3D Solution (17) ✔ Toilet Paper (56) ✔ Scour Pad (47) ✔ Sponge (54) ✔ Rubber Gloves (29) ✔ Toilet Brush (11) ✔ Dusting Brush (10a) ✔ Rags (41) ✔ Broom (7, 8) ✔ Mop (37) ✔ Floor Signs or Markers (27) ✔ Personal Protective Equipment (as recommended in JHA)

Safety and Sanitation The same safety precautions for vault toilets apply to flush toilets. Keep in mind, studies have shown that during the flushing action, bacteria are carried out of the toilet bowl in a fine aerosol spray and deposited on and around the toilet. The area surrounding the toilet may appear to be clean, but in fact can be very contaminated.The procedure for cleaning flush toilet buildings is similar to any other toilet building. The large paper pieces and debris should be picked up and placed in a trash can. All horizontal surfaces should be dusted, and the floors should be swept with special attention given to corners and concealed areas. Gum, etc., should be scraped from the floor with a putty knife.

The selection of the toilet bowl cleaner is very important.

A caustic substance used daily in small dosages in a number of toilets could easily upset a septic tank leech field system or a small extended aeration system.

Use a long-handled brush and a toilet bowl cleaner to thoroughly clean the interior of the bowl. Make certain that up under the rim and the throat of the bowl are clean.

The holes around the bowl rim should be periodically checked and reamed out to prevent reduction of flushing action.

Having the proper tool makes the job easier.

In the reverse order, wipe the underside of the seat, top of the seat, and surrounding bowl.

Remove existing toilet paper rolls from dispenser if you plan to hose down the walls and floors. Using 3D solution or a commercial grade foam disinfectant cleaner, clean both sides of the seat, the hinge area, and the outside of the toilet. If the toilet uses a flush valve, use the 3D solution or foam cleaner to clean the valve.

Polish and dry all surfaces of the toilet seat, toilet exterior, and flush valves.

Wash the walls with a 3D soaked sponge and brush. It is not necessary to rinse the 3D solution from the walls unless they are heavily soiled. The solution will provide a residual disinfectant and deodorant action.

NOTE: If urinals are provided they should be thoroughly cleaned after cleaning the toilet area. It may be necessary to use a fresh mix of 3D solution. The interior of the urinal may require the use of a toilet bowl cleaner if stains and soil are excessive. Again, be sure that all chrome is clean and left polished and dry.

It is not necessary to dry the interior of the urinal.Next, clean the bowl.

Use a 3D soaked sponge (not the one used for the toilet) to thoroughly clean the sink and faucet.

Stubborn stains may require a light application of scouring powder or the use of a nylon scrubbing pad. Rinse and polish dry. All chrome surfaces and mirrors should be cleaned and free from stains and smears.

Hose down the walls and floors— followed by wiping all wet fixtures with a clean dry rag or sponge.

The floor should be mopped frequently with a 3D solution to prevent any accumulation of bacteria resulting from the aerosol carry-over during the flushing action and to maintain a clean smear-free floor. Dry mop, squeegee or wet vacuum the floor to leave as dry as possible. The remaining contents of a mop bucket should not be dumped into the toilet unless it has been determined they will not adversely affect the sewage disposal system.

Replace toilet paper.

SHOWERS AND DRESSING AREAS

✔ Measuring Cup (21)

✔ Dustpan (24)

✔ Double Bucket (14)

✔ Putty Knife (34)

✔ Scale Remover (46)

✔ 3D Solution (17)

✔ Bleach (6)

✔ Squeegee (55)

✔ Scouring Pad (47)

✔ Sponge (54)

✔ Rubber Gloves (29) ✔ Scrub Brush (12) ✔ Corner Brush (10 ✔ Dusting Brush (10a) ✔ Rags (41) ✔ Broom (7, 8) ✔ Mop (37) ✔ Floor Signs or Markers (27) ✔ Personal Protective Equipment

(as recommended in JHA)

Follow the same guidelines for cleaning flush toilets. Remember, public safety is paramount.

CAUTION: A bleach solution or virtually any other mycocide can be an irritant to the mucous membranes. For asthmatics, the mycocide could cause an asthma attack. So, use it only when people are not in the facility and make sure to air the room out before people enter it.

Sweep the floor to remove large debris such as dirt, toilet paper, etc..

Starting above and working towards the floor, clean the fixtures and walls using 3D solution, scouring pads, and scrub brush.

Rinse wall surfaces with a hose.

Use the corner brush to remove hard to reach debris. A coved corner helps in reducing the entrapment of dirt.

Mineral deposits and soap scum can be removed with a scale remover.

(NOTE: In some locations, treating the water by installing a water softener system can greatly reduce the mineral deposit)

Clean the dressing areas with a sponge and 3D solution. Also, clean the under side of benches and lower walls.

Complete the cleaning by mopping the floors and squeegee, if needed. Experience has shown that moving the mop in a figure eight motion provides the most efficient coverage for cleaning floors.

RECREATION VEHICLE SANITARY DUMP STATIONS

✔ Double Bucket (14) ✔ Putty Knife (34)…