This testing has concluded.
Town of Arlington to Conduct Smoke Testing
In order to improve sewer service, on behalf of the Town of Arlington, Weston & Sampson will be conducting smoke testing on portions of the sanitary sewer system from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, between September 20th, 2007 and November 2nd, 2007. Testing will be performed in several areas of Arlington. A project map may be viewed here. The highlighted areas labeled Year 1, Year 2, and Year 3 will be tested during this time-frame.
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 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 ailments or respiratory condition such as asthma or emphysema, stay way from the smoke. Any smoke within a building should be reported to the persons conducting the tests.
Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc. company vehicles are gray with the company name on the sides and their personnel will be wearing blue shirts with the Weston & Sampson markings and be carrying a current Weston & Sampson ID card.
Any questions should be directed to Weston & Sampson at (781)-483-3309 ext. 2013. Leave a message including your name, address, and telephone number and your call will be promptly returned.
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