Rochester Voice 5:18 a.m.
Tuesday, August 9, 2022 5:15 am

Image shows a typical smoke test of a sewer system. Smoke is pumped into the system and comes out of the ground at potential leak points (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The city of Rochester has contracted with Weston & Sampson to conducting smoke testing of the sanitary sewer between Aug. 15 and Sept. 30.

The testing will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, weather permitting.

The purpose of smoke testing is to locate sources of rainwater entering the sanitary sewer, according to a release from Weston & Sampson. 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 be cause for alarm, the environmental company adds.

Smoke should not enter your premises unless there is either a dry trap in an unused fixture or a plumbing defect. 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 nontoxic, nonstaining and and dissipates quickly through open windows.

Anyone who has a lung ailment or respiratory condition like asthma or emphysema should stay away from the smoke.

Any smoke within a building should be immediately reported to the persons conducting the tests. To learn more about the smoke used, click here.

Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc. company vehicles are black with the company name on the sides and their smoke testing personnel will be wearing shirts with the Weston & Sampson markings and a current Weston & Sampson ID card.

Any questions should be directed to Weston & Sampson at (603) 988-0143. Please leave a message including your name, address, and telephone number and you will be responded to promptly.