Excavtors do much septic installs here, i've 'had it out' with many over the pedestal deal.
I won't dig, if they won't wire......
19.) The improper connection of septic pumps.
There are several different problems that can stem from septic pump installations. First, Section 430-102 (a) requires the installation of a disconnecting means in sight from a motor controller location that disconnects the controller. In the case of the typical residential septic pump installation the controller would be the float switch in the pump tank. Section 430-102 (b) requires a disconnecting means in sight from a motor location to disconnect the motor. Unlike the well pump scenario above the motor and controller are located in the same location so the exception to 430-102 (b) which allows you to eliminate the motor disconnect if the controller disconnect is capable of being locked in the open position won't do any good in this case.
Article 100 defines "in sight from" to be visible and within 50'. So there should be a disconnecting means that is visible and located no more than 50' from the pump tank. In most cases the pump and controller (float switch) are inserted into a receptacle located near the tank so the attachment cap for the controller and pump cord can serve as the disconnecting means. Note in the sentence above that the disconnect must be visible.
Most often the homeowner does not want to see a pedestal with a receptacle and cords so the attachment caps are cut off and the cords are wired directly (hard wired) into a junction box that is located in the tank. If the pump and controller have been hard wired many times there is no disconnect at all located within site from the motor or controller.
In many cases the receptacle has been installed inside the pump tank. Before making this kind of installation consideration should be given the issues of accessibility and corrosion. Also depending on the size of the system there may be sufficient enough hazardous vapors in the pump chamber to classify the location. The classified locations are more common in commercial and industrial applications.
