When dumping wastewater at an appropriate dump station, what should be done first?

When managing the disposal of wastewater at a dump station, the recommended procedure starts with dumping the black water holding tank first. The black water tank contains sewage and is typically the more odorous and hazardous of the two tanks (black and gray), so it is important to handle it before the gray water.

By starting with the black water, you minimize the chances of contamination or unpleasant odors lingering in the area once the gray water is dumped subsequently. The gray water, which comes from sinks and showers, is generally cleaner and can help flush out the hose after the black water has been emptied.

This order of operations also aligns with proper sanitary practices, ensuring that the more contaminated waste is managed efficiently and effectively. Additionally, dumping the black water first allows for a cleaner environment when working with the gray water, as the latter can help rinse out residual waste and clean the hoses.