One of the essential functions of an OSSF is to ensure that:

The essential function of an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) is to ensure that wastewater receives nearly complete treatment before it's released into the environment. This is crucial for protecting public health and the environment. A properly designed, installed, and maintained OSSF treats wastewater to remove harmful contaminants, pathogens, and nutrients, which, if left untreated, could pose significant risks to surface water and groundwater quality.

Effective treatment processes in an OSSF often involve several stages, including primary treatment to remove solids, secondary treatment to reduce organic matter and pathogens, and sometimes additional methods like filtration or disinfection. By achieving nearly complete treatment, the system safeguards surrounding ecosystems and communities from potential health hazards associated with untreated or inadequately treated sewage.

The other choices do not align with the objectives of an OSSF. For instance, uncontrolled disposal of wastewater, maximizing pollution, or failing to treat solids would lead to environmental degradation and increased health risks, contradicting the fundamental purpose of wastewater management systems.