How soon must Category 1 Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) that discharge to surface water be reported?

Category 1 Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) are those that pose a significant risk to public health and the environment, particularly when they discharge directly to surface water bodies. According to regulatory standards, these types of overflows must be reported to the appropriate authorities as quickly as possible to ensure immediate response and mitigation efforts can be initiated.

The requirement to report these incidents within a 2-hour timeframe is critical because rapid reporting allows for timely public health notifications, helps prevent potential environmental damage, and facilitates swift restoration measures. This urgency is a reflection of the potential impacts that such discharges can have, including waterway contamination and risks to recreational users and wildlife.

In contrast, longer reporting times would not adequately address the immediate dangers posed by such SSOs. As a result, the 2-hour reporting requirement is established as a standard practice to ensure all stakeholders can act quickly to mitigate harm.