Members of the Worcester County Public Works Water and Wastewater Division will conduct smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system March 21-26 in Ocean Pines.
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Sanitary sewer system check set for several streets
Members of the Worcester County Public Works Water and Wastewater Division are set to begin conducting smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system March 21 in Ocean Pines.
The testing was set to kick off Thursday, March 21, and will last until Tuesday, March 26, on Carrolton Lane, Mumfords Landing Road, Fishing Creek Lane, Starfish Lane, Yacht Club Drive, Stones Run, McHenry Court, Mercers Way, North Chase Street, South Chase Street, Papa Court and Bay Breeze Lane in Ocean Pines.
A news release said the study will involve opening and entering manholes in the streets and public utility easements to locate breaks and defects in the sewer system. The smoke will also reveal where storm and other surface water enters the system.
A special, non-toxic smoke will be used in the tests. It leaves no residuals or stains and has no effect on plant or animal life. The smoke is visible and has a distinctive, but not unpleasant, odor that should last only a few minutes where there is adequate ventilation.
Because the plumbing appliances in homes and buildings are connected to the sanitary sewer system, some smoke may enter the facilities in the following instances:
• Vents connected to a building’s sewer pipes are inadequate, defective or improperly installed.
• Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains are dry, defective, improperly installed or missing.
• Pipes, connections and seals of the wastewater drain system in and under buildings are damaged, defective, have plugs missing or are improperly installed.
The smoke test can reveal the presence, if any, of sewer gas, which can be dangerous and a health risk to occupants.
In the event that smoke enters a home or business, contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in the area at 410-641-5251, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.