Sewer System Smoke Testing

Civil West Engineering Services will have a crew in town Wednesday through Friday, May 29th, 2019 through the 31st, 2019 to conduct smoke testing of the existing gravity sewer system. Fliers, like the sample shown to the right will be hung on doors throughout town early in the week (a day or two ahead of the testing).

The intent of the testing is to identify service laterals in need of repair during upcoming sewer system improvement projects.

White smoke will be blown into the sewer at manholes throughout town, one at a time.  The smoke will exit the pipe through cracks, separated joints or leaky connections and will be visible above ground.  By recording where smoke is visible, the Engineer will be able to identify where deficiencies exist.

During testing, residents may notice smoke escaping from their eaves and yard drains.  Also, smoke may enter the house through faulty or improperly installed traps and drains.  To minimize the smoke entering your house, please pour water into all drains including floor drains prior to the testing (especially if drains/sinks are rarely used). 

Residents can rest assured that the smoke is non-toxic, non-staining, non-flammable and is harmless to people, animals, and plants.

In the unlikely event that smoke is in the building, please alert the testing crew. The smoke can then be ventilated out windows.

If you have any questions, please call Public Works (503) 861-0912.

Thank you for assistance and cooperation with this testing.