SANITARY SEWER Meaning and
Definition
-
A sanitary sewer is an underground system of pipes, channels, and other structures that are designed to carry wastewater, or sewage, away from homes, businesses, and other buildings. It is a critical component of a municipal infrastructure, responsible for transporting and managing the flow of waste and wastewater to a treatment plant or disposal site for appropriate treatment or safe discharge.
A sanitary sewer system usually consists of a network of interconnected pipes that are installed beneath the streets and other public areas. It collects wastewater from various sources, such as toilets, sinks, showers, and drains, as well as industrial waste from factories and commercial establishments. The wastewater flows through these pipes, propelled by gravity or pumping stations, towards a central treatment facility.
The purpose of a sanitary sewer is to protect public health and the environment by removing and treating wastewater before it is discharged. The system helps to prevent the accumulation of waste and pollutants in homes and public areas, reducing the risk of infections, waterborne diseases, and environmental contamination. It also helps to manage the volume and flow of wastewater during periods of heavy rainfall or flooding.
Regular maintenance and inspection of sanitary sewers are essential to prevent blockages, leaks, and environmental hazards. These systems require periodic cleaning, repair, and upgrades to ensure their optimal functionality, capacity, and efficiency. With proper management, a sanitary sewer system plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and well-being of urban areas.
Etymology of SANITARY SEWER
The word "sanitary sewer" can be divided into two parts: "sanitary" and "sewer".
The term "sanitary" derives from the Latin word "sanitarius", meaning "hygienic" or "healthful". This Latin word has its roots in "sanus", which means "healthy" or "sound" in Latin. Over time, "sanitary" began to refer to anything related to cleanliness and public health.
The word "sewer" comes from the Old English word "seofor" or "sewer", which originally referred to a pipe or channel that carried water or waste away. This Old English term has Germanic origins, with the Old High German word "siuvar" and the Gothic word "siuhs" having similar meanings.
