Issue link: http://psai.uberflip.com/i/1398793
PSAI Association Insight, August 4, 2021 I 13 • Tying down with rope and blocks. When the ground is not amenable to staking, use rope over the top of the unit and tie it off with cinder blocks or some other weight. If winds are especially high and the ground is amenable to it, use fence posts on opposite corners of the unit to secure the unit, and then tie it off. Here are some things to consider when staking units: • How strong is the wind? • What is the soil like? If the soil is too soft will it pull up your stake/ spike? • Are there underground hazards? In all but the most remote areas, it will be necessary to call 8-1-1 before you dig or drive stakes. This means you'll need lead time so the utility people can respond. If you are leaving the staking to your customer, be sure to remind him or her of the need to call before they start driving stakes in the ground. • Will the unit still be accessible, meaning nothing will block the door or access to the unit? • Does the unit have a containment pan? If so how will you secure the unit without compromising the integrity of the pan? Whatever you decide, remember: you need to make sure you are not creating a greater hazard than the wind-blown toilet. It's also important to remember that wind can play havoc with restroom doors. It's a good idea to check all your door springs before placement. Make sure they are all in good working order, and you repair or replace any that are loose or showing wear. If a Unit Tips, Should You Charge Extra for Cleaning? This topic came up on Facebook recently and the responses were mixed. • Some operators said they would not charge extra under any circumstances. • Others said they wouldn't charge extra if the clean up occurred on a regular route day. If they had to make a special trip to clean or replace the unit, these operators assess an extra fee. • Other operators were adamant that tip overs require extra work and should be charged accordingly. In other words, there is no definitive answer. You need to choose an approach that matches your business model. In another business segment, you find budget airlines that sell you a seat inexpensively, but they then charge for carry ons larger than a purse, stowed bags, boarding passes at the airport, and all sorts of other "extras." Competing airlines charge more in the first place but don't add fees for your first carry one or boarding pass. When it comes to tip overs, take the time to be clear on Tips of Tip Overs (continued from page 12) whether you are the "budget" company with the lower basic price and extra charges for cleaning up after a tip over, you are the other guys that include the extras in your quoted price, or somewhere in between. Whichever way it is, make sure you are getting paid for the work you do. What is the Best Way to Recover a Tipped Unit? Despite your best efforts, sooner or later it will happen. A unit will blow over—or maybe it had a little help from some vandals. Either way, now it's on its side. Here are some best practices for recovering the unit: • Take photos before and after recovery. This can be an important evidentiary record for a number of purposes. • Set the unit upright, then determine if it can be cleaned without making a bigger mess. • If it is wet, vacuum as much waste as possible • Also vacuum any residue from the ground, following your company spill procedure • If the unit is dry, scrape waste off the surfaces and service as usual. • If you are unable to clean the unit and/or it is damaged, notify the relevant parties and swap the unit. (continued on page 14)