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Posted on: September 4, 2024

Rockland Sewer Department Fall Smoke Testing Information

Sewer

Rockland Sewer Department Fall Smoke Testing Information

In order to improve the Sewer System in The Town of Rockland (Town), Weston and Sampson, an engineering firm, will be conducting smoke testing throughout the Town. The Smoke Testing will take place from 7:30 am - 5:00 pm between September 16 and October 18, 2024, weather permitting.

What is smoke testing? Smoke testing is an effective method for evaluating the sewer system to identify defects such as fractured or collapsed segments, misaligned joints, missing cleanout caps, or illegal connections tied to the mainline collection system. The smoke emerging from storm sewers, roof vents, or the ground indicates potential problem areas contributing to the sewer system's inflow and infiltration (I&I). The combined flow between stormwater, groundwater, and sanitary wastewater can lead to hydraulic and biochemical issues in sewer collection and treatment systems. By identifying and addressing the defects, the Town can maintain the integrity of the sewer system, ensuring reliable service and reducing the risk of environmental contamination and system failures.
During the test, white smoke is introduced to the sanitary sewer system via a smoke-generating machine. During this procedure, white smoke will be venting from holes in manhole covers located in the street and from plumbing vent pipes located on or near your roof surface. THIS IS NORMAL AND SHOULD NOT CAUSE ALARM.
What should I do if I see smoke during testing? Smoke should not enter your premises unless there is a dry trap in an unused fixture or a defect in your plumbing. You may wish to pour two gallons of water down your basement floor drain or unused plumbing fixture to ensure that the drain trap will be effective.
Should smoke be detected within your building, do not be alarmed. The smoke is NON-TOXIC, NON-STAINING, and dissipates quickly through open windows. IF YOU HAVE A LUNG AILMENT or RESPIRATORY CONDITION SUCH AS ASTHMA OR EMPHYSEMA, STAY AWAY FROM THE SMOKE. Any smoke within a building should be immediately reported to the persons conducting the tests.
Who will be performing Smoke Testing, and how do I verify personnel? The Town of Rockland (Town) is working with Weston & Sampson, an engineering firm that will be conducting the smoke testing. Weston & Sampson field staff conducting the smoke testing will carry an ID badge and drive a vehicle labeled with the firm's name.
Please see the additional documents linked below for additional information.
Weston and Sampson Smoke Testing Voicemail Hotline: 781-909-4054.