How frequently should collection system inspections occur?

The recommended practice is to conduct collection system inspections at least annually, or more frequently depending on specific system conditions. Inspections are essential for identifying issues such as blockages, structural integrity concerns, or other maintenance needs. By performing these inspections at least once a year, operators can prevent minor problems from escalating into more significant, costly failures.

Additionally, the phrase "or as determined by system conditions" acknowledges that the frequency of inspections may need to be adjusted based on factors such as the age of the system, the materials used, the level of usage, and environmental conditions. This flexibility ensures that the maintenance strategy is both effective and efficient, allowing for targeted responses to systems showing signs of distress.

In contrast, options suggesting less frequent inspections, such as every five years or bimonthly inspections regardless of conditions, do not align with best practices for proactive maintenance and risk management within wastewater collection systems. These approaches could lead to unforeseen challenges that could have been averted through more regular inspections.