[RP TownTalk] Fwd: WSSC Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Study

[Alice Ewen]

FYI-

WSSC is conducting a comprehensive sanitary sewer evaluation study that will
include smoke testing to begin on July 15 in certain sections of Riverdale
Park. (WSSC uses this method to detect defects in the sewer system).
 Details below, for those interested.

The Washington Suburban Sanitary

Commission (WSSC) began conducting a

comprehensive sanitary sewer study of the

Northeast Branch Sewer Basin in December

2009. This pro-active study is highlighting

potential sewer problems to avoid costly

major sewer repairs and support our efforts

to protect the environment and public

health.

During the months of July, August and

September, 2010, WSSC will begin a

process called Smoke Testing in the

Northeast Branch Sewer Basin. This

procedure will locate defects such as

sewer line cracks and storm sewer cross

connections. WSSC will notify all residents

and businesses when field crews will be in their community within 24 to 48
hours, with a door hanger notice that

will provide specific information and contact telephone numbers.

JU

What is Smoke Testing?

sewer problems with little disruption to the system

or to county residents. To conduct the smoke testing

process, the following steps will be taken:

  • Opening of manholes on county streets.

• Placing a large blower on top of the open

manhole and forcing non-toxic smoke into the

system.

As smoke is sent through the sewer lines, it will be

forced through any opening or defect in the system,

as shown in Figure 1. The white or gray smoke

exiting the system is easily observed by the field

crew performing the test, who will log and map

each occurrence for further analyzing.

*
*

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission is entrusted by our community to
provide

safe and reliable water, life’s most precious resource, and return clean
water to our

environment, all in an ethically and financially responsible manner.

*
*

WSSC Wants You to Know:

• At no time will field crews have to enter any residences or businesses.
However, should a smoke source be

visible, the field crews will need to enter the grounds to investigate and
log the source.

• The smoke is non-toxic, leaves no residue and creates no fire hazard. The
smoke, which is 50%

atmospheric moisture, has a slight odor similar to burning paper and may
cause minor throat irritation if

directly inhaled. Persons with respiratory conditions such as asthma,
bronchitis or emphysema should be

careful when exposed to smoke of any kind.

• All residents receiving a smoke testing notice from WSSC will

be instructed to pour approximately one (1) gallon of water

down any unused drains. This will help to prevent smoke from

entering the house via seldom used drains. Smoke will enter a

home or building through defective plumbing or if drain traps are

dry.

• Please be advised that if smoke enters a house during this

test, it is likely that sewer gases are entering as well. It would

be advisable to call a licensed plumber to repair any defective

plumbing detected during this process.

• Residents presence at home is not required during the tests. All

public safety authorities have been notified of this event.

All WSSC contractors have been authorized by the Commission to

perform a variety of activities related to the testing and analysis work

needed to complete the Northeast Branch Sewer Basin Sanitary Sewer

Study. The study is scheduled for completion on or before December

31, 2011.

WSSC is the 8 largest water and wastewater utilities in the nation,

serving 1.8 million residents in Prince George’s and Montgomery

counties. To report water or sewer emergency, customers may call

WSSC’s 24-hour Emergency Response number at (301) 206-4002.



-- ----------------------------------
Alice C. Ewen
Councilwoman, Ward 1
Town of Riverdale Park MD
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