Sanitary drainage is the process of removing human waste and sewage from buildings through a system of pipes and tubes. The word sanitary is spelled /ˈsænətəri/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), with emphasis on the first syllable. The word drainage is spelled /ˈdreɪnɪdʒ/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The combination of these words, "Sanitary Drainage", indicates a system that ensures the safe and hygienic removal of human waste from buildings to protect public health and the environment.
Sanitary drainage refers to the system of pipes, fixtures, and fittings used to remove wastewater from homes, buildings, and other structures for the purpose of maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of disease. It is an essential component of any plumbing system and is designed to safely and efficiently transport waste and sewage away from inhabited areas.
The primary objective of sanitary drainage is to ensure the proper disposal of human waste, as well as any other liquid waste generated within a building. This includes wastewater from sinks, showers, toilets, and other fixtures. The system is specifically engineered to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in order to safeguard public health.
Sanitary drainage systems typically consist of a network of gravity-flow pipes that transport wastewater from individual fixtures to a central sewer or septic tank. The pipes are installed at a slope to allow for efficient flow and are often made of durable materials, such as PVC or cast iron, to withstand the corrosive effects of wastewater. Additionally, the system may be equipped with traps, vents, and cleanouts to prevent the escape of odors, maintain proper air pressure, and allow for maintenance and inspection.
Regular maintenance and periodic inspections of the sanitary drainage system are crucial to ensure its proper functioning. Any blockages, leaks, or malfunctions should be promptly addressed to prevent backups, flooding, and potential health hazards. By effectively removing wastewater from buildings, sanitary drainage plays a vital role in maintaining public health and promoting hygiene.
The word "sanitary" comes from the Latin word "sanitarius", which means "healthful" or "clean". The term "drainage" traces back to the French word "drain", which means "to draw off liquid". Therefore, the etymology of the phrase "sanitary drainage" can be understood as the combination of "sanitary", referring to maintaining health and cleanliness, and "drainage", denoting the process of removing liquid waste from a particular area, typically associated with plumbing systems in buildings.