Our Focus on Safety & the Environment

by Ri Industries

Ri-Industries Safety and Precautions

 

As a pre-cast concrete manufacturer, we view the safety of our workers and our environment as our number 1 priority.  So we are particularly glad to report a number of things happening at Ri-Industries, as well as all the additional work practices we have put in place in relation to the current COVID-19 crisis.

Silicosis is widely talked about in the workplace and via Safework SA (it is an incurable and often fatal lung disease contracted through exposure to silica dust).

It can affect people working in very dusty environments as the tiny particles are respirable or – in plain language – inhalable.  This is widely prevalent in areas of cutting stone but also in grinding concrete.

Working with concrete can be dusty work.  As a pre-cast concrete manufacturer, we are committed and focused on reducing the amount of dust in processes and our factories. This includes undertaking specialist measurements of respirable dust in our environment and during certain processes as part of the manufacture of pre-cast concrete products.

Our communication with staff and interaction with safety suppliers ensures we are not just wearing face masks but staff are trained in how to fit their masks properly, which makes a huge difference to their effectiveness, keeping harmful respirable dust out.

Other initiatives include, but are not limited to, filtration cleaning systems, grinding systems and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which also positively work with our environmental approach.

Therefore, we are pleased to report that having recently had a dust survey and full inspection at both our factories in Wingfield and Angle Park, our levels of respirable dust were between 0.1 and 0.4mg/m³ – well below the Safe Work limit of 1mg/m³. We don’t just work to the guidelines that are set, we always go above and beyond at Ri-Industries.

Ri-Industries also has three certifications by the Certification Approval Panel of TQCS International which require annual audits. You can learn about these certifications in one of our previous blogs, but here is a brief summary:

 

Certification Approval Panel of TQCS International

  • AS 4801: Safety – Demonstrating compliance with internal and external safety systems, including performance, preventive measures and monitoring.
  • ISO 9001: Quality – Recognising our compliance in areas including client liaison, internal communication, issue resolution and efforts toward continuous improvement.
  • ISO 14001: Environment – Acknowledging our commitment to preserving the environment and preventing pollution.

The certification process is thorough, and approval is not easy to achieve. We are incredibly proud to earn these and appreciative of the dedication our staff show to safety.  And for our customers it’s good to know you’re dealing with a company so focused on the safety of our workers and our environment.

 

Considerations When Buying or Building a New House

by Ri Industries

Buying or building a new home is exciting, but it can also be a very daunting experience. There are many factors to consider such as number of bedrooms/bathrooms, neighbourhood, design, and more. Those are the fun factors which are a matter of choice. Then there are the structural and functional factors that need to be considered; not as fun, but in some ways, more important.

With so much to think about, you’ll be happy to learn that SA Water has provided some helpful tips on what questions you should ask when buying or building a new home:

  • When having a new home built, check that your builder has applied for water and sewerage connection on your behalf. If your contract with your builder doesn’t include a water and sewerage connection, you will need to apply for a connection.
  • If moving into a newly built home, if there is a connection, but no water meter on the property, you will need to apply for a meter.
  • Is your water meter accessible? Water meters must be kept free of obstructions so they can be read, maintained and periodically replaced. If the meter is partially buried or encased in concrete, you have to remove the obstruction or the meter may be relocated at your cost.
  • Is the property located in a dual water supply development? Prior to sale, each property must be checked to ensure no cross connection exists between the drinking water and recycled water supplies.
  • Is the water connection for the property located away from the property? If so, the property will have a special type of connection agreement. It’s important to note you are responsible for the maintenance and replacement of the water pipe between the meter and the property if repairs are required.
  • Does the property have a sewerage connection? Where is it located?
  • What is the condition of the drains connected to the sewerage connection?
  • Is there an external overflow point on the property? In the event of a blockage, an overflow relief gully may be required. This will allow the discharge to flow from the dwelling.

Are you buying or building a new home and have questions about septic systems? Call Ri-Industries, at 08 8444 8100, for answers.

 

Trade Waste Arrestors by Ri-Industries – Benefits, Installation, and Maintenance

by Ri Industries

Ri-Industries Trade Waste Arrestor

 

Trade waste arrestors are used to stop harmful trade waste from entering the drainage system where it could harm people or the environment. Arrestors vary in both size and type depending upon the type of trade waste produced. Ri-Industries offers a number of options to best suit your needs.

Why choose a trade waste arrestor manufactured by Ri-Industries? Here are just some of the benefits:

  • Made from precast concrete with a strength of 50 MPa at 28 days.
  • A number of different trade waste arrestors are available including silt, grease and detention tanks.
  • All inlets suit HDPE pipes for easier connection.
  • Gas-tight lids set in precast concrete can also be supplied, as well as extension risers.
  • Increments and trafficable, gas-tight, heavy duty cast iron/concrete covers are available.
  • Units are lowered into the excavation site providing the site is level, firm and accessible.All units are SA Water approved.

Ri-Industries also provides installation of the arrestors. Some key details about the installation:

  • Outside installations must be a minimum of 50mm above ground level to exclude stormwater.
  • Chequerplate covers can be fitted with recessed drop handles and/or frame to suit brick paved areas.
  • Cast iron covers can be supplied.
  • Epoxy coating is available upon request.
  • Increments are available on request.
  • Heavy duty and light duty concrete covers with cast in cast iron covers and frames are available.
  • Trade waste arresters are available as either oil and grease arrestors, settling pits or acid neutraliser pits.

Before delivery of the trade waste arrestor, there are steps you will need to take to prepare the site. You can find information about the preparation here.

Once the trade waste has been installed and is in use, you will want to ensure it is properly maintained. Our trade waste arrestors are particularly strong and built to last. The arrestor is designed to trap all fats and oils contained in the wash water. Therefore, it should be completely cleaned out at three-monthly intervals or more frequently if necessary, following SA Water recommendations. Tank waste must not be discharged to the sewage system.

If you’d like to learn more about our trade waste arrestors or any of our products, please call 08 8444 8100 and we will be happy to assist you.

Septic Tank Safety Precautions

by Ri Industries

Ri-Industries Septic Tanks

 

Septic tanks are vital and necessary to help ensure the health and safety of our family and to ensure our homes work effectively. Ri-Industries has frequently written about the importance of regular maintenance to help keep your septic tank system functionally properly such as in this blog, but it is also important to note possible life saving safety precautions you should take when working on or near the septic tank.

 

  • Our first tip has been addressed in previous blogs. It relates to having a properly fitting and sturdy septic tank lid which covers the access port to the septic tank. The child-proof and vandal-proof concrete lids on our septic tanks will give you peace of mind. They are also available as stand-alone replacement lids.
  • If there are noxious fumes near the tank, that is a sign it is time for maintenance and you should not work in the area alone in case the fumes become overwhelming. 
  • Be sure all cuts and open wounds are well covered when working on or near the septic tank. Obviously, septic tank systems may contain serious bacterial hazards. 
  • No open flames! The contents of the septic tank can produce methane gas which is highly explosive. It’s best to place your fire pit well away from the septic tank just in case methane gas is expelled.
  • Do not get close to open septic tanks. It is best practice to allow professionals to perform all maintenance and repairs on the tank. When the tank is being worked on and the lid is off, do not lean over the opening. You may fall in, which is not only dangerous but also a very unpleasant experience, and/or the gases could be strong enough to knock you out. Again, passing out from the fumes is bad, passing out and falling into the tanks is seriously dangerous. 
  • If, by chance, you are nearby when someone else falls into the septic tank, DO NOT TRY TO RETRIEVE THEM YOURSELF! Immediately call for help from professionals with the proper equipment to keep them safe. While waiting for the emergency professionals to arrive, you can place fans around the opening to help blow fresh air into the tank. 

 

When you have a quality septic tank such as the ones provided by Ri-Industries and you hire professionals to maintain and repair the septic tank, there is very little risk of injury to you or your family. However, it’s important to be aware of the above-mentioned safety tips to ensure you take the highest level of safety precautions.

 

For questions regarding our septic tanks, or if you need to order a new septic tank lid to replace an old one, please call 08 8444 8100 and we will be happy to assist you. 

Avoid Summer Septic Tank Problems

by Ri Industries

Summer is a time to enjoy your beautiful outdoors, entertain guests, and simply …RELAX! Well, there are very few home maintenance issues more stressful and less relaxing than problems with your septic tank. To help avoid any messy issues this summer, Ri-Industries offers these tips for summer septic tank care.

  1. Planning a party or having guests stay with you? That means extra water and waste going through the septic tank. You can help eliminate problems by doing laundry and other heavy water use tasks before guests arrive. If you’re having a big party, consider having your septic tank pumped beforehand.
  2. Which items can be flushed? The answer is very simple – only toilet paper and human waste! Be sure your guests understand this. A helpful sign placed above the toilet may help prevent costly repairs. Common items that cause septic tank problems are:
    *Cat litter
    *Grease and oils
    *Cotton swabs
    *Dental floss
    *Nappies
    *Disposable wipes
    *Feminine hygiene products
    *Hair
    *Cigarette butts
  3. Kids, and adults love to play with water when the weather is hot, running through sprinklers in particular. These are best sprayed away from the septic field to avoid standing water. Identify a separate part of the garden for this play.
  4. Parking can be challenging when you have a lot of people over. Avoid using your lawn to increase the parking area, especially over the septic field. Also, do not ride dirt bikes or go-karts near your septic tank as these also can cause damage.

With just a little forethought, planning, and education, your summer can be relaxing, enjoyable, and free of septic tank problems. If you have questions about Ri-Industries Septic Tanks, please call 08 8444 8100 and we will be happy to help you. Happy Summer!

How to Create a Rainwater Harvesting System

by Ri Industries

Congratulations! You’ve done the research and have decided that collecting rainwater is a good decision for your household. Now you need to learn what steps need to be taken in order to begin collecting rainwater.

First,  you must decide which type of storage tank you will use. The experts at Ri-Industries recommend our concrete underground rainwater tanks which offer the following benefits:

  • The water stays cooler.
  • No algae develops.
  • The water has no after-taste.
  • They are vandal-proof and fire-proof.
  • Concrete is stronger and more durable.
  • Being underground means they are out of sight and don’t take up much of your valuable real estate.

Once you’ve decided which type of storage tank you will install, it’s time to think about how you will actually collect the water. House, garage and shed roofs are generally used as catchment areas. 

To keep the rainwater clean, it is important to attach leaf screens to gutters, prevent vegetation from overhanging the roof, and thoroughly clean the roof and gutters before installing. Avoid collecting rainwater from sections of the roof that contain lead flashing or asbestos sheeting, as well as from roofs painted with pre-1980 paint. 

Some extra steps should be taken when using the collected rainwater as drinking water. The Plumbing Code of Australia requires that a testable backflow prevention device is fitted on any mains water supply to the house and tested annually. First flush diverters are recommended for all drinking water systems and are beneficial for systems supplying other internal uses. For garden irrigation supply, their main benefit will be to reduce the need for desludging the tank. Since dust, debris, and bird droppings accumulate on the roof during dry spells, the first rain will wash them off the roof and into your rainwater tank. First flush diverters are designed to prevent the unwanted substances from entering the tank. 

Now that the rainwater has been collected and stored in the tank, you will need a system to bring the water into the house or out to the garden. You have a couple of options to use with the Ri-Industries concrete water tanks. 

A header tank is a great choice for use with an underground tank. It is placed at a higher level than the storage tank. A low-powered pump will transfer the water from the rainwater tank to the header tank, then the water is released using gravity.

A pressure pump is another option which will deliver water at, or near, mains pressure.  You will need to decide between a submersible or free-standing pump and will also need to install a pump controller. 

Collecting rainwater is a fantastic way to save money and resources. The experts at Ri-Industries can help you choose the system that is best for your home. Please call us at 08 8444 8100 with all your questions.

How to Water Your Garden With Water Collected in a Rainwater Tank

by Ri Industries

Before we discuss how to water your garden with water collected in a rainwater tank, let’s discuss why you might want to use rainwater.

First, rainwater harvesting reduces pollution. When rain falls, oil, pesticides, animal waste and fertilisers from lawns, footpaths, driveways, and streets get washed into our sewers which then overflow into rivers and estuaries. By harvesting rainwater, we eliminate those possible contaminants joining the water. Harvested rainwater is also free of salts, pollutants, and chlorine that are found in ground and surface water.

Second, harvested rainwater reduces demand on our water supplies. This is especially important during the summer months and times of drought.

Now that you have decided to harvest rainwater, how do you actually capture the water? We recommend installing a Ri-Industries Concrete Rainwater Tank. Our underground concrete rainwater tanks offer a number of advantages:

  • The water stays cooler.
  • No algae develops.
  • The water has no after-taste.
  • They are vandal-proof and fire-proof.
  • Being underground means they are out of sight and don’t take up much of your valuable real estate.
  • Concrete is stronger and more durable than plastic, steel or fibre glass.
  • Once the rainwater tank has been installed, you will need to move water from the tank to your garden. The best way to do this is with a pump.
  • Pump systems can be submerged underground or they can be free standing. They can provide enough pressure that the water flows similarly to mains water. You can also install a mains switch-over device to switch from rainwater to mains use when the rainwater runs out.

Another option to consider is having a header tank. This is a great option to use with underground tanks. The header tank will be placed at a higher level than the storage tank. A low-powered pump will transfer the water from the rainwater tank to the header tank, then you can use a gravity fed method to release the water. You can fit a garden tap near to the bottom of the header tank and use a soaker hose to transfer the water out of the tank, using gravity.

Watering your garden with harvested water is a great way to help conserve water and eliminate pollutants. Ri-Industries is proud to provide quality concrete rainwater tanks in Adelaide and surrounding areas for your use. Please call us to speak with one of our experts to learn more.

Unclog Drains Without Harsh Chemicals

by Ri Industries

No matter how careful you are when using the sinks in your home, inevitably you will come up against a clogged drain. Perhaps the water is simply slow to drain down the pipe or the pipe is completely clogged and no water is draining. Either way, a fix is needed. Calling a plumber is an option of course, but if you choose to battle the clog yourself you have a choice to make.<

Do you want harsh chemicals making their way into your sewer system and eventually into the waterways? Do you want to breathe in the harsh chemicals while they do their work? Bleach and sodium hydroxide are the main ingredients in drain cleaners and are severely corrosive.  Contact via inhalation, ingestion, skin, and the eyes can cause major irritation, vision problems, vomiting, shock if ingested, and even thermal and/or chemical burns. If you need to clear your drains regularly, you are at risk of many potential health problems.

To avoid any potential problems, you will need to find alternative processes that will work to clear the drain without using harsh chemicals. Ri-Industries respects that decision and offers these following options for you to try, based on our knowledge of septic systems. 

  1. A simple and cost-effective alternative to harsh chemicals is to use washing liquid and hot water. When the clog is caused by grease buildup, this is an especially good option. Simply squirt a good amount of washing liquid down the drain and follow that with a kettle full of boiling water. This will break down the grease and clear the clog.
  2. When baking soda and vinegar combine, a chemical reaction happens which will bubble up and dissipate the clog. Begin by bailing out any standing water and removing all debris. Pour 1/2 a box of dry baking soda into the drain and then pour 1/2 cup a vinegar into the drain. IMMEDIATELY create a tight seal with a plunger or stopper.  The chemical reaction will be similar to those volcano experiments at primary school so be sure the hole is completely sealed to keep everything in the drain. Wait approximately 30 minutes and then pour a kettle full of boiling water down the drain. The drain should now be clear. 
  3. Baking soda mixed with hydrogen peroxide will also work. Mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Pour down the drain and allow to foam. This should remove the clog. 

You can clear a clog and still be gentle on your health and the environment by using the above options. If you have questions about your septic system, our experts will be happy to assist you. Please call us at 08 8444 8100.

The Benefits of Xeriscaping

by Ri Industries

Xeriscaping, pronounced “zeer-i-scape,” is defined as ‘landscaping designed specifically for areas that are susceptible to drought, or for properties where water conservation is practiced.’ The term is derived from the Greek word ‘Xeros,’ which means dry, and ‘scape,’ which means scene. Put together, we get ‘dry scene.’

Xeriscaping is a beneficial practice in South Australia as we battle drought or limited rainfall conditions. The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology puts out a monthly drought report and the latest (June 2019) shows western South Australia once again had below average rainfall. For those of us who want beautiful gardens and/or to help our environment, xeriscaping can be a fantastic solution. 

 What are the benefits of xeriscaping?

  • Reduce water consumption as much as 50 -75%. In fact, if you choose a desert landscape it can eliminate water consumption completely.
  • Limited maintenance is required as mulching and weeding may be all that is required.
  • All natural – by choosing native plants there will be no need for chemical supplements.
  • Reduces pollution because there is no need to use gardening tools such as gas mowers.
  • Creates a wildlife habitat by growing native plants alongside trees, and shrubs.
  • Saves money since there is no need to purchase fertiliser or expensive gardening equipment.

Since the most important aspect of xeriscaping is reduced water consumption, it is important to research the plot of land where the garden will be. Look at the contours of the terrain, soil absorption, and drainage patterns. You want soil that is rich in organic material and you will want to keep it well aerated. Compost is a great way to enrich the soil. 

The goal of the xeriscape is to provide as much of the needed water by rainfall as possible. However, there will be times when additional water will be needed. Consider installing a drip irrigation system from your rainwater tank or simply use soaker hoses. Each of these will deliver water slowly and promote root absorption in your plants and will safeguard against soil erosion. 

Choose native, drought-resistant plants. We have a nice variety of such plants available here in South Australia. Choose a combination of plants you find pleasing to look at and would enjoy. 

Mulching is imperative to help soil retain moisture and temperature as well as help to control weeds. You want to avoid leaving the soil around plants bare. Leaves, wood chips, coarse compost, gravel, bark, and pine needles are all good choices for mulch.

Minimise the turf areas in your garden since they require more watering. Most people choose to include a small turf area for aesthetic reasons. Choose turf from the variety that consumes less water.

It is possible to create a beautiful landscape while conserving water. There are many online resources to help you plan your own xeriscape or there are xeriscape professionals who can plan and create it for you. 

If you would like to learn more about the Ri-Industries concrete rainwater tanksplease call and speak with one of our experts. 

Preparing for Delivery and Installation of Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

Preparing for delivery and installation of septic tank Ri-IndustriesCongratulations, you’ve purchased a new septic tank system for your home! What comes next? Preparation for the delivery and installation of the septic tank. Don’t worry, we’ll do all the hard work, but it will be made easier if you understand the process. 

Your first question may be, “What happens with the existing septic tank on my property?” if you already have a septic tank. That’s a great question. The answer will be up to the installer of the new septic tank. Often, they will choose to leave the old tank in the ground. The soil they dig out for the hole for the new tank will be used to fill the old tank and bury it. This is more cost effective than removing the tank. Once the new tank is installed the plumber will run a new line to the new tank.

Your second question may be, “How do you get that large tank onto my property?” Another great question. As you can imagine, our trucks are large. They measure 10 metres long and 2.5 metres wide, therefore we need to assess the best way to unload your tank, taking factors into account such as:

  • We will need to reverse up to the hole therefore easy access is very important
  • A clear, level site is required to unload the tank in your excavated area
  • 4.7 metres is needed for the truck to pass under trees and overhead power lines
  • A minimum height clearance of 8 metres is required when unloading
  • 4 metres clearance is required between gate posts.
  • Once the truck is in position to complete the lift/delivery of the tank it needs an area of 6m wide and 10.5m long for the outriggers and rotation of the crane.

If you have concerns about the delivery of your new septic tanks, please don’t worry. We offer FREE on-site visit inspections by one of our drivers if we have one in the area. If not, we will speak with you over the phone about the site conditions to help make the process as smooth as possible. 

Do you have questions? We will be happy to answer! Please call Ri-Industries at 08 8444 8100.

 

Purchasing a Septic Tank

by Ri Industries

Learn about the process of purchasing a septic tankPurchasing a septic tank is not something one does often in life and may, at first, feel overwhelming. Ri-Industries would like to help ease your mind by explaining how the process works.

There are two circumstances when you might purchase a septic tank: for a new home build or for an existing home. Each circumstance follows its own process.

Purchasing a septic tank for a new home build: Typically speaking, the builder will handle the entire process. They will arrange for a wastewater engineer to determine the size and type of septic tank needed. This may be a STED point, common effluent point, or a soakage bed.  They will also arrange for a plumber (installer) to inspect the site for any other concerns that may arise from an installation perspective. However, the homeowner may decide to take the septic tank out of the home build and handle it directly. Therefore, the homeowner will be responsible for arranging the wastewater engineer and plumber. The homeowner may purchase the septic tank directly from Ri-Industries or he/she may instruct the plumber to purchase the septic tank from us.

Purchasing a replacement septic tank: The homeowner can choose to handle the entire process themselves which means they will be responsible to arrange for the wastewater engineer, the plumber/installer, and purchase the septic tank. Or, the homeowner may hire a plumber/installer who will manage all of the other steps for them.

Are you installing a Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System instead of a standard septic tank? If so, these units need to be ‘commissioned’ by a service agent, so you need to contact them two weeks prior to you moving into your new house. Generally, the procedure is to ensure that the tank is ¾ full of water and all pumps are operational.  The system should be fully established within two weeks, with clean water discharging to the irrigation system.

If a Ri-Treat unit is replacing an existing septic tank,  we will send the unit pre commissioned therefore ready to run and work as soon as the electricity is connected.

Ri-Industries has been in operation since 1947 and we have made it our life’s work to deliver outstanding pre-cast concrete products. We are committed to excellence, not only in our manufacturing techniques and processes but through every interaction we have with our customers. We appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about your septic tank needs. Please call us at 08 8444 8100 to speak with one of our experts.

 

Why Saddle Risers, Increments, and Cover Slabs are Beneficial for Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

Yay! It’s time to get the septic tank pumped! Wait a minute, that’s not something people get excited about. Let’s face it, while we understand there is a need for a septic tank, it’s not something we like to think about on a regular basis. Once it’s been installed, we’d prefer to put it out of mind.

One good thing about septic tanks is that they are fairly low maintenance. If we follow simple rules about what should not be flushed, the tank should function well without much work on our end. There will come a time though, on average once every three – five years, when the tank should be pumped. Why? Because tanks breed bacteria which digests sewage to a sludge. The sludge builds up over time eventually leaving little room for new sewage. If not pumped, sewage will overflow into the disposal area causing it to fail. Failed disposal areas can be smelly and expensive to fix. So, when the time comes to pump the septic tank, we want it to be as inexpensive as possible and cause the least disruption to the landscaping as possible.

A common problem faced by septic tank maintenance companies is difficulty locating the tank. Sounds a bit funny, doesn’t it? But the tank is, after all, underground and it’s likely there have been years to develop beautiful landscaping around it. Wouldn’t it be awful if every three – five years the landscaping had to be destroyed simply to find the septic tank?

Thankfully, Ri-Industries has a solution to help the septic tank maintenance worker locate the tank without making a mess and ruining your landscaping. Saddle risers, increments, and cover slabs work together to help the septic tank maintenance worker avoid all that painful digging and disruption to your outdoor area. No more guessing the exact spot where the septic tank is located. The saddle makes it easy to find, open and access septic tanks to pump out the contents and quickly re‐seal the cover. The covers are gas tight to contain odours and water tight to prevent effluent leaking from the septic tank or water from entering the septic tank.  They can also stop children and stock falling into or accessing your septic tank.

Ri-Industries manufacture saddles risers, increments, and cover slabs:

  • To suit all horizontal septic and holding tanks
  • Coverslabs suitable for pedestrian traffic only
  • Radius of saddle riser varies to suit tank
  • Each component fitted with 1.3t ‘Swiftlift’ anchors for lifting

For answers to all your septic tank, saddle riser, increment, and cover slab questions, call us at 08 8444 8100. We look forward to hearing from you.