Which of the following issues would likely contribute to water seepage in sanitary systems?

Water seepage in sanitary systems is mainly caused by structural vulnerabilities in the system. Poorly sealed manholes are a critical factor because they can allow groundwater and surface water to infiltrate the sanitary sewer system. This infiltration not only increases the volume of wastewater that must be treated, but it can also lead to overflow situations during heavy rainfall events or when the system is under heavy use.

The sealing of manholes is essential for maintaining the integrity of the sanitary system. When the seals are compromised, it creates pathways for external water to enter. This can lead to issues such as system overloading and possible contamination of the potable water supply.

While excessive water usage and high levels of precipitation can influence the overall dynamics of a wastewater system, their contributions are indirect. Excessive water usage may increase the load on the system, and high levels of precipitation can exacerbate the capacity challenges, but it is the structural issue of poorly sealed manholes that directly leads to the problem of water seepage. Thus, the focus on manhole integrity is crucial in the management and maintenance of sanitary systems.