Which statement is true about a garbage pit's operation?

• A. Closed out daily or when pit is filled to 1 foot below ground surface
• B. It must be constructed with steel lining
• C. It must be cleaned with chemical cleaners daily
• D. It should be used for more than a month before closing

Answer: (A)

In field sanitation, the goal is to limit exposure of waste to people, pests, and the environment. The best practice for a garbage pit is to close it and cover it daily, or as soon as the pit is within about a foot of the ground surface. Covering with soil prevents flies from breeding in the refuse, reduces odors, and deters animals, keeping the area cleaner and safer.

Steel lining isn’t required for a basic garbage pit; many pits are simply dug and then backfilled or lined with inexpensive materials. Daily chemical cleaners aren’t part of standard operation and can be unnecessary or even harmful to the environment. And using a pit for more than a month typically increases odor, pest issues, and disease risk, so regular closing is important.