TOPP INDUSTRIES INC.
FIBERGLASS BASIN INSTALLATION
REFERENCE GUIDE
PURPOSE
The purpose of this is to provide a brief reference to the
recommended methods and procedures for installing
Topp Industries' underground sump and sewage basins
to ensure that damage or premature failure of the basin
does not occur.
Studies conducted by both environmental regulatory
agencies and trade organizations demonstrate that
the most significant source of leaks and failures in
underground storage systems is improper handling and
installation. Proper handling and installation requires
practical experience combined with strict adherence to
proven methods and procedures.
This guide is not intended to serve as a basin
instructional manual. The installation of our sump and
sewage basins is a specialized skill, and it is assumed
that the individuals who install our products and refer
to this guide will have a basin understanding of such
procedures as excavating, backfilling, pipefitting and
electrical work. No amount of written instruction by a
manufacturer or a regulatory agency will convert an
inexperienced, under supervised laborer into a skilled,
experienced mechanic. The ability to recognize and
correctly respond to abnormal conditions during a
basin installation requires field experience as well as
mechanical aptitude.
In addition to proper system engineering and
competent manufacturing, the use of basin installers
who have both practical experience and integrity to
insist that the basin be installed properly constitutes the
greatest protection from catastrophic basin failure and
liability exposure.
DISCLAIMER
Every reasonable effort has been put forth by Topp
Industries, Inc. and its agents to ensure the accuracy and
reliability of the information contained in this reference
guide. However, neither Topp Industries, Inc., its agents,
or its consultants make any representation, warranty,
or guarantee in connection with the publication of
these recommended methods and procedures. Topp
Industries, Inc. hereby disclaims any liability for loss or
damage resulting from their use; for the violation of any
federal, state, county or municipal regulations with which
these recommended methods and procedures may
conflict; or for the infringement of any patent resulting
from the use of these recommended methods and
procedures.
These handling and installation instructions are not
intended to preclude normal safety procedures, which
should be followed to prevent injury to personnel. SAFE
INSTALLATION PROCEDURES SHALL BE ENTIRELY THE
RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSTALLER.
MATERIAL HANDLING
GENERAL HANDLING. Although the exterior surfaces
of our fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) sump and
sewage basins are designed to withstand normal
handling, they can be damaged during transportation
and installation. Basins must not be dropped, dragged
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or handled with sharp objects and with the exception of
the minimal movement involved in a visual inspection,
should not be rolled.
If the basin or its shell is damaged, installation should
be suspended until a determination of the extent of
damage can be made by Topp Industries, Inc. or its
agent. Any repairs must be first authorized in writing by
Topp Industries, Inc. and then be done in accordance
with Topp Industries, Inc. instructions.
UNLOADING, LIFTING AND LOWERING. The proper
way of moving a basin is by lifting it, using chains or
cables with the optional lifting lugs (not more than 30º
included angle) or by using a non-marring sling around
the basin. Before any attempt is made to move the basin,
it should be established that all the equipment and
accessories have sufficient capacity and reach to lift and
lower the basins without dragging and/or dropping.
Basins should be maneuvered with guide ropes
attached to the sides.
WARNING! Under no circumstances is the use of
chains or cables around the basin shell permitted.
STORAGE. Basins should be stored in a secure,
controlled area where the potential for accidental
damage or vandalism will be minimized. The storage
area should be free from sharp objects, rocks and any
other foreign solutions or materials that could cause
damage to the basins. Chock the basins until they are
needed for installation and if windy conditions are
possible, secure the basins with non-marring restraints
of a size and number adequate for securing the basin.
PRE-INSTALLATION INSPECTION. Basins, valves,
equipment and piping materials should be physically
and visually inspected prior to installation. Adherence
to the project's specifications should also be confirmed
before installation. If the basin or any of its internal
components are damaged, installation should be
suspended until a determination of the extent of
damage can be made by Topp Industries, Inc. or its
agent. Any repairs must be first authorized in writing by
Topp Industries, Inc. and then be done in accordance
with Topp Industries' instructions.
EXCAVATING
EXCAVATING. The excavation should provide adequate
space for the basin, piping and other buried equipment
and for the placement and compaction of backfill
materials particularly around the basin walls. The size,
shape and wall slope of the excavation should be
determined by soil conditions, depth of excavation,
shoring requirements, and, if workers are required to
enter the excavation, safety considerations and federal,
state, county and municipal regulations.
WARNING! Locate all overhead and underground
utilities before excavating.
LOCATION OF EXCAVATION. Excavation for an
underground basin should be made with due care to