{
    "success": true,
    "data": {
        "id": 1770484,
        "msgid": "septic-tanks-must-be-kept-at-a-safe-distance-from-wells-heres-why-1780014115",
        "date": "2026-05-28 17:57:07",
        "title": "Septic Tanks Must Be Kept at a Safe Distance from Wells \u2013 Here\u2019s Why",
        "author": "Hilda B Alexander",
        "source": "KOMPAS",
        "tags": "",
        "topic": "Regulation",
        "summary": "Indonesian regulations mandate a minimum 10-metre distance between septic tanks and water wells to prevent groundwater contamination. Experts warn that improper installation can lead to methane explosions and health hazards, stressing the need for proper construction, ventilation, and regular maintenance.",
        "content": "<p>Proper placement of septic tanks in homes must be carefully planned,\nespecially in relation to clean water sources such as wells. According\nto Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 2398:2017 on the design of septic\ntanks with advanced treatment, septic tanks treat domestic wastewater\nbefore it is directed to a soakage system or further treatment. If\ninstalled incorrectly, waste from septic tanks can seep into the ground\nand contaminate daily water sources. The standard recommends a minimum\ndistance of 10 metres between septic tanks and clean water wells to\nreduce the risk of bacteria, viruses, and pollutants entering\ngroundwater. Additionally, septic tanks should be positioned lower than\nthe water source to prevent wastewater from seeping towards the well.\nSoil type must also be considered when choosing a location; highly\nporous soil can accelerate contamination of groundwater, requiring more\ncareful waste treatment system design. Septic tanks must be constructed\nto be watertight to prevent leakage into the ground, with strong walls\nand base to resist seepage. They should also include advanced treatment\nsystems such as soakage wells or infiltration beds to filter liquid\nwaste before it is absorbed by the soil. Ventilation pipes are essential\nto release gases produced during waste decomposition, maintaining stable\nair pressure and reducing unpleasant odours. Endra S. Atmawidjaja,\nChairman of the Indonesian Association of Health and Environmental\nEngineering Experts (IATPI), stated that ventilation pipes help prevent\nseptic tank explosions. Methane gas accumulates in septic tanks due to\ntheir anaerobic nature, lacking free oxygen. \u2018Often, the issue is a lack\nof ventilation or vents being blocked by soil or other materials,\ntrapping the gas,\u2019 Endra told Kompas.com on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. When\nmethane levels exceed 15%, it can cause explosions; normal levels should\nstay below 5%. Another crucial point is ensuring septic tanks are\naccessible for regular sludge pumping to maintain optimal capacity and\nproper functioning of household sanitation systems.<\/p>",
        "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/septic-tanks-must-be-kept-at-a-safe-distance-from-wells-heres-why-1780014115",
        "image": ""
    },
    "sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
    "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
}