What is an MSD type II device?

• A. Produces effluent having a fecal coliform count not greater than 200 per 100 milliliters and suspended solids not greater than 150 milligrams per liter.
• B. Produces effluent having a fecal coliform count not greater than 500 per 100 milliliters and suspended solids not greater than 300 milligrams per liter.
• C. Produces potable water for crew use only.
• D. Produces effluent with no fecal coliform and no suspended solids

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is the regulatory discharge standard for a Marine Sanitation Device Type II. This type of device treats onboard sewage and the allowed quality of the discharged effluent is defined by specific limits for two key indicators: fecal coliforms and suspended solids. The correct option matches the established standard limits, showing that the device can discharge treated effluent with fecal coliform not exceeding 200 per 100 milliliters and suspended solids not exceeding 150 milligrams per liter. This reflects a basic level of treatment that reduces pathogens and particulates to an acceptable, regulated level for discharge at sea.

The other choices suggest either much higher allowable counts of fecal coliform or solids or an entirely different scenario (such as producing potable water), which do not align with the typical Type II MSD discharge requirements. Some options imply perfect removal of microbes and solids, which is beyond the standard Type II performance and would require more advanced treatment.