Public Works: Smoke Testing to be conducted August 15, 2022 to September 30, 2022

In order to improve the sewer service in your area, on behalf of the City of Rochester, Weston & Sampson will be conducting smoke testing of the sanitary sewer between August 15 and September 30, 2022. Testing will take place from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, weather permitting.

The purpose of smoke testing is to locate sources of rainwater entering the sanitary sewer. 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 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 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. 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.