Massachusetts Plumbers Journeyman Practice Exam

Where should all area drains be connected for proper drainage?

1. A. Main sewer line

2. B. Stormwater drainage system

3. C. Sanitary sewer

4. D. Septic tank

The correct answer is: B. Stormwater drainage system

The correct choice is that all area drains should be connected to the stormwater drainage system. This is important because area drains are designed to collect and manage surface water runoff, which includes rainwater, melting snow, and other types of excess water. Connecting them to a stormwater drainage system helps prevent flooding and allows for the proper management of stormwater, ensuring it is channeled away from structures and roads. While a main sewer line, sanitary sewer, and septic tank are designed for the disposal of wastewater from plumbing fixtures, they are not intended for handling stormwater. Connecting area drains to these systems can lead to overloading them with non-sanitary water, potentially causing backups, overflows, or other drainage issues. Therefore, routing area drains to a stormwater drainage system aligns with best practices in water management and local codes, ensuring effective drainage and environmental protection.