Sewage

Slovak term: Slovenský termín

1. Wastewater that usually includes excreta and that is, will be, or has been carried in a sewer (WHO 1992).
2. Mixture of human excreta and water used to flush the excreta from the toilet and through the pipes; may also contain water used for domestic purposes (WHO 2006).
3. See also: wastewater or black water

Explanation

“Sewage” (or black water), includes sullage and human excreta from waterborne facilities. Sewage is called “sludge” when it becomes a thick mud. This water includes bacteria and other disease-causing organisms that make the water unsafe for untreated use in capacities that would create direct human exposure (WHO 2003).

Example

Sewage or wastewater includes domestic wastewater (black water and greywater) as well as commercial and industrial wastes, as well as surface runoff (in the case of combined storm and sanitary sewers) that may be discharged to dewage systems.

References

• WHO (1992) A guide to the development of on-site sanitation.
• WHO (2003) Linking Technology Choice with Operation and Maintenance in the Context of Community Water Supply and Sanitation: A Reference Document for Planners and Project Staff
• WHO (2006). Guidelines for the safe use of wastewater, excreta and greywater: Volume 1 Policy and regulatory aspects

Links

• WHO — The Health and Environment Lexicon
• WHO Wastewater Management for Small Communities
• IRC, WHO (2000) Operation and maintenance of rural water supply and sanitation systems: A training package for managers and planners