Town to Conduct Smoke Testing in Northeast Arlington October 2-14, 2011
In order to improve sewer service, the Town of Arlington, through Weston & Sampson will be conducting smoke testing on portions of the sanitary sewer system between October 3 -14th, Monday-Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Testing will be performed in the Northeast section of Town (see map here).
The inspection is being conducted as part of Arlington’s Annual Sewer System Investigation and Repair Program. The purpose of smoke testing is to locate sources of rainwater entering the sanitary sewer. By removing this extra flow, Arlington will reduce the amount of wastewater it sends to the MWRA, thereby reducing MWRA flow related charges and sewer surcharging in these areas.
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.
Smoke should not enter your premises unless there is either a dry trap in an unused plumbing fixture (usually in the basement) or a plumbing defect. If you have an unused plumbing fixtures like a shower, toilet, or floor drain it is recommended you pour water into (or flush) the plumbing fixture to ensure that the traps are not dry and smoke doesn’t enter your home.
Should smoke from this testing 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 respitory condition such as asthma or mphysema, stay away from the smoke. Any smoke within a building should be reported to the persons conducting the tests.
Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc. company vehicles are Ford vans with the company name on the sides and their personnel will be wearing safety vests and shirts with Weston & Sampson markings and be carrying a Weston & Sampson ID card.
Any questions should be directed to Weston & Sampson at (781)-483-3301 ext. 2234. Leave a message including your name, address, and telephone number and your call will be promptly returned. Updates to this work can be viewed on this page.
| 
