How can groundwater contamination occur from OSSF?

Groundwater contamination from On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) typically occurs due to the improper installation, maintenance, or design of the system. When an OSSF is not installed correctly, or if it is not maintained properly, wastewater can leak or migrate through the soil, which may lead to harmful contaminants reaching the groundwater.

For instance, if the system is poorly designed, it might not provide adequate treatment of the sewage, allowing pathogens and nutrients to enter the groundwater. Additionally, if maintenance procedures, such as pumping of the septic tank, are neglected, solids can back up and escape the system. These scenarios underscore the importance of adhering to proper installation guidelines and regular maintenance to ensure that such systems function as intended, protecting both the environment and public health.

In contrast, proper installation and design enhance the resilience of the system against contamination. The notion that contamination occurs only in areas with high rainfall is misleading, as groundwater contamination can happen under various conditions. Also, while the introduction of chemicals can lead to contamination, it is not directly related to how OSSF systems function unless those chemicals are related to their operation or maintenance.