What type of waste is typically classified as sewage?

Sewage is primarily defined as a combination of liquid waste, which includes water, and organic matter, such as human waste, food waste, and other biodegradable materials. This classification is crucial because it determines how the waste is treated and managed in wastewater treatment facilities. The presence of organic matter in liquid waste is what differentiates sewage from other types of waste, as it requires more complex processing to break down these organic components.

Liquid waste with organic matter encompasses a wide range of materials, including residential bathroom and kitchen waste, which often contains pathogens and nutrients that must be carefully managed to avoid environmental contamination. Understanding this definition is essential for plumbing professionals, as it influences design considerations for drainage systems and treatment methods employed to handle sewage effectively. Properly recognizing sewage is fundamental in maintaining public health and sanitation standards.