Georgia Septic Installer Practice Test

When should a privy be properly terminated?

1. When it is full

2. When the pit is within 18 inches of the ground

3. When the soil becomes saturated

4. When it has been in use for 5 years

The correct answer is: When the pit is within 18 inches of the ground

A privy should be properly terminated when the pit is within 18 inches of the ground level. This guideline is crucial for maintaining sanitary conditions and preventing potential contamination of the surrounding environment. If the pit approaches this level, it indicates that the waste material is close to the surface, which can lead to the risk of overflow, unpleasant odors, and environmental hazards. Timely termination helps ensure that the privy operates effectively and hygienically, and prevents the spread of pathogens that could occur if the waste is allowed to accumulate too close to the ground. Other factors such as the pit being full or the soil becoming saturated are important but do not specifically trigger the termination of the privy. Rather, they indicate conditions to monitor for proper maintenance and operation. The timeframe of five years is arbitrary and does not universally apply to all privies, as usage patterns and environmental conditions vary greatly.