What does the acronym SSO stand for in the context of sewage systems?

In the context of sewage systems, the acronym SSO stands for Sanitary Sewer Overflow. This term refers to a situation where untreated or partially treated sewage is discharged from a sanitary sewer system, typically due to overflows from manholes, pipe failures, or inadequate capacity during wet weather events.

Understanding this concept is crucial for collection system maintenance, as SSOs can pose significant public health risks and environmental concerns. Regulatory agencies require proper reporting and response to these events to minimize their impact. The significance of recognizing SSOs lies in the necessity to manage sewage systems effectively and prevent the detrimental consequences associated with such overflows. This is why the correct answer emphasizes the sanitary aspect, indicating a failure in the system designed to handle household and industrial wastewater, distinguishing it from other types of sewer issues that may not involve sanitary sewage directly.