The word ‘essential’ when describing an employee or business has become an iconic phrase associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Some non-essential businesses have temporarily closed or found alternative ways to provide services to their customers by observing social distancing. But other businesses are deemed essential and must stay operable during the crisis, providing necessary services to communities including healthcare, law enforcement, transportation and the water and wastewater industry.  

In a matter of days, COVID-19 has changed day-to-day life around the world. Across North America panicked consumers are stocking up on essential household items—including toilet paper. But as supplies run low, the public is turning towards alternatives to compensate: paper towels, disinfecting wipes, baby wipes and so-called “flushable” wipes.

These items present a threat of their own, as they can cause major problems in sewer systems.

Manholes are vertical underground confined spaces used by utility personnel as a point of access to a sewer system.