Don't Put Them Down the Drain!
As a directive of the US EPA Consent Decree, the City was required to develop and implement a FOG control program, specifically for Food Service Establishments (FSEs).
The program consists of education for residents and commercial food service establishments and a Fats, Oils, and Grease Ordinance. During a time when the City is heavily investing in state of the art sewer infrastructure, FOG control is vital to maintain the proper operation of wastewater collection and treatment systems. To help enforce this necessary program, the City has entered into an agreement with Summit County Public Health to coordinate inspections of FSEs suspected of violating the FOG control requirements.
While FSE’s are one of the contributors to FOG material, residential households can also do their part to keep sewers clear.
Individuals can take a few simple steps, such as:
- Do not pour fats, oils and grease down the drain. Don’t rely on your garbage disposal and sink drain to get rid of the grease.
- Use a paper towel or napkin to remove greasy leftovers from pots and dishes prior to washing in the sink or dishwasher.
- Pour cooking oils & scrape grease into a container and dispose in the garbage.
- Food waste can also contain FOG. Place leftover food, scraps and fat trimmings in the garbage, not in the garbage disposal.
Helpful Materials
Here are some program materials to help FSEs eliminate and keep track of grease cleanings:
- Hauler Manifest Form
- HGI Maintenance Log
- Waiver Request - for less Frequent Cleaning
- Conditional Interceptor Waiver Request
- Best Management Practices
- Self-Cleaning Guidelines
- Self-Cleaning Video
- Water Core Sampler – Sludge Judge
- Tips from the Nation Restaurant Association
- Clean Sewers are Happy Sewers brochure
For more information about the FOG Program, please call (330) 375.2963 or email us at FOG@akronohio.gov.