Prevention is Best

Protecting public health and safety is a primary responsibility of City of Gardner Wastewater.  Sewer blockages and subsequent sewage spills pose a threat to public health and safety that can be prevented when food service facilities follow the Best Management Practices (BMPs) presented here.  

City of Gardner Wastewater has determined that the most effective way to minimize Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) accumulation in sewers is to prevent the introduction of FOG into the sanitary sewer system in the first place.  Follow these tips to help control and minimize the introduction of FOG into sanitary sewers:

• Post "No Grease" signs above sinks and on the front of dishwashers and/or floor sinks.

• Wipe pots, pans, dishware, and work areas with paper towels prior to washing, and dispose the paper towels in the trash.

• Dispose food waste directly into the trash.  Garbage grinders/disposals are prohibited.  

• Use absorbents or other materials, like paper towels, to pick up spills before mopping the floor, then dispose of the towels in the trash.

• Collect cooking oil waste and store in drums or barrels for recycling.

• Keep grease emulsifying agents out of the sink and drain.

Documents

• Best Management Practices Training Guide
• Best Management Practices for Preventing Blockages in the Sanitary Sewer System
• Best Management Practices for Maintaining Exterior Grease Interceptors
• No Grease Sign/No Grasa Sign
• Informacion en Espanol (Spanish FOG Information)
• Important Contact Numbers