08/09/2022
SMOKE TESTING SANITARY SEWER LINES
WILL BE OCCURING IN YOUR AREA
The Town of Kirklin will be conducting sanitary sewer smoke testing in your area the week(s) of
August 15, 22, and possibly 29, 2022 (weather dependent). The testing helps identify leaks in the
sanitary sewer system that may cause problems leading to sewer overflows and/or reduced
capacity at the wastewater treatment plant.
During the testing, a non-toxic, non-staining white smoke will be blown from manholes into the
sanitary sewers. Leaks in the sewers, house laterals, and plumbing that would allow groundwater
or rainwater into the sewers are identified by the visible smoke leaking from the system.
Residents may see smoke coming out of manholes and inlets or out of the ground. Additionally,
smoke may be seen coming from building gutters, downspouts, and plumbing vents on roofs.
Smoke should not enter homes. If it does enter a home it could mean a drain trap is dry or there
is a plumbing defect. It is recommended that property owners pour a few glasses of water
into each floor drain, sink, bathtub, or other fixture with a drain. The water will properly fill
the drain trap and prevent the entry of smoke.
The smoke will disappear without leaving a residue or odor. It will dissipate more quickly if a
window or door is opened in the affected area. Safety Data Sheets of the product are available
upon request from field personnel conducting the testing. If you notice smoke entering your home,
contact a member of the testing team located nearby.
The smoke used in this testing is specifically manufactured for this purpose and has been found
to be HARMLESS by a team of experts in the fields of industrial hygiene, toxicology, and medicine.
Their analysis report states that “…none of the smoke (tested) appears capable of causing even
minor injury to people whom may be exposed during controlled use”. The smoke being used is
chemically generated but is non-toxic, non-staining, has no odor, and creates no fire hazard.
However, as a precaution, we recommend any person with respiratory sensitivity to take the
necessary precautions and avoid exposure.
The Town of Kirklin has contracted with Commonwealth Engineers, Inc. to assist with the smoke
testing program. Commonwealth personnel will have identification with them at all times.
Smoke testing may take place weekdays between 8:00am and 5:00pm, Monday through Friday,
providing there is no significant rainfall for 24-hours prior to the scheduled testing. Testing will
not be performed on the weekends.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Commonwealth Engineers, Inc.
6325 Digital Way, Suite 101
Indianapolis, IN 46278
Toll Free: (800) 289-1177
