Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners

Right now, most septic and sewer-cleaning work is still done by people, with tech tools helping out. For example, vehicle makers are testing self-driving garbage trucks – Volvo tried a truck that drives itself while a worker walks ahead collecting trash ^[1] – but even in that demo a human stayed along for safety. In sewer work, operators use robot “crawl­ers” with high-pressure water jets to blast clogs, but a person controls them with a camera from above ^[2].

In other words, machines can help with heavy cleaning or inspection, but humans steer them. Utilities are even testing AI software for planning: one water commission used a prediction tool to suggest when pipes need cleaning before a backup happens ^[3]. These tools can make scheduling easier, but they don’t actually do the digging or driving.

Tasks like writing reports or sealing pipe joints remain hands-on. Overall, AI and automation today mostly augment workers (by giving cameras, sensors, or smart software) rather than replace them ^{[2] [3]}.

Adopting AI in sewer services has pros and cons. On the plus side, many towns face a shortage of skilled workers and tight budgets, so “smart” technology can help ^[4]. For example, EPA notes utilities are starting to use sensors and data analytics to become more efficient ^[4].

Big vehicle companies are also talking about future AI gains – Oshkosh’s CEO even said AI could one day let garbage trucks run without anyone on board ^[5]. This could reduce repetitive or dangerous work. However, there are challenges: new equipment costs a lot and must work safely in messy, risky environments.

Because of this, and because technicians and communities need to trust these tools, change happens slowly. In most cases, small crews find it more practical to use apps or basic computer tools now. In the long run, though, AI (like predictive maintenance software) may help workers focus on tough problems.

So while automation is spreading bit by bit, human skills – like fixing unexpected issues and working together – remain very important ^{[5] [4]}.