manhole cover for cesspit

[whorlicks1]

is there a regulation for the type of cover for a cesspitt ?
i want to replace my existing cast iron one with a gavenised one with a 5 ton weight limit on it is this o.k

 

[ajstoneservices]

Cant think that there is. I've had a paving slab on a cesspit and light duty covers on a couple of septic tanks.

 

[whorlicks1]

i wasn't sure but all the other cesspits ive seen have cast iron lids on.
but putting a slab on top would stop the kids lifting it up and am guessing thats the reason for cast ones.
cheers

 

[Tipper]

Be careful if cars are around. A 5 ton lid is the whole vehicle rating so 1 1/4 ton only safe working load per wheel iirc.

I fitted a 5 ton lid in my drive and the lid sank/bowed within days with only a family car running over it!

In addition you may consider a lid that locks down would be beneficial in terms of 'Health and Safety'. Alternatively add a bolted down bar across the top to stop it being lifted. You don't want some prat drowning in your sewage!

You may find it best to go for a heavier duty lid which has some reinforcing braces on the underside. Luckily they all seem to be the same size and fit the same frame although the light duty has a metal frame and the heavier ones have plastic.