The document discusses the construction details of septic tanks. It provides a brief history of septic tanks originating in France in the 1860s. It defines a septic tank as an underground concrete chamber that separates wastewater into liquids and solids and provides basic treatment through digestion by anaerobic bacteria. The document outlines two common methods for designing septic tanks - the detention period method and rational period method - which determine tank size based on wastewater flow rates and the population served. It notes advantages such as low cost and effective BOD removal but disadvantages including odor issues and need for periodic cleaning.