Plumbing and sanitary systems are closely related and often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different aspects of a building’s water and waste management systems.
Plumbing refers to the overall system of pipes, fittings, and fixtures that bring fresh water into a building, and remove waste water and sewage from it. This includes the main water supply lines that bring water into the building from the municipal supply, as well as the smaller branches that distribute water throughout the building to various fixtures and appliances. Plumbing also includes the drainage system that carries waste water and sewage away from the building. The plumbing system is designed to ensure that clean water is brought into the building, and dirty water is carried away, without any cross-contamination.
Sanitary systems, on the other hand, specifically refer to the portion of the plumbing system that deals with the safe and hygienic disposal of human waste. This includes the toilets, urinals, and other fixtures that are used for this purpose, as well as the drainage and venting systems that are used to remove waste and prevent odors. Sanitary systems are designed to ensure that the waste is carried away from the building in a safe and hygienic manner, without any potential for contamination or exposure to dangerous pathogens.
The two systems are closely related, as the plumbing system provides the water and drainage necessary for the sanitary system to function, but they are also distinct. For example, a building’s plumbing system will include the water supply and drainage for sinks, showers, and other fixtures that are not directly related to the disposal of human waste.
Additionally, while plumbing is the overall system that deals with water and waste management in a building, sanitary systems focus more on the health and safety aspects.
It’s important to note that both plumbing and sanitary systems are regulated by local building codes and regulations to ensure that they are installed and maintained properly, to avoid health hazards and to ensure the safe operation of the systems.