Submitted by the Bedford Department of Public Works
The Town of Bedford’s wastewater consultant, Weston & Sampson Engineers, will be conducting smoke testing on portions of the sanitary sewer system weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., starting the week of October 7th and continuing through mid-November. Testing will be performed in the highlighted portion of Town as shown on the attached project area map.
The inspection is being conducted as part of Bedford’s 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, Bedford will reduce the amount of wastewater it sends to the MWRA, thereby reducing MWRA flow related costs and sewer surcharges in these areas.
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 floor drain or other unused plumbing fixture to ensure the drain trap will be effective.
Should smoke from this testing be detected within your building, do not be alarmed. The smoke is non-toxic and non-staining, and dissipates quickly through open windows. If you have a lung ailment or respiratory condition, please stay away from the smoke. Any smoke within a building should be reported to the persons conducting the tests. The Weston & Sampson crew will be outside monitoring the smoke as it moves down the sewer mains.
The Weston & Sampson field crew has Ford trucks with the company name on the sides and their personnel will be wearing safety vests and shirts with Weston & Sampson markings and be carrying a Weston & Sampson ID card.
Any questions should be directed to Weston & Sampson at (781) 0035 x2024. Please leave a message with your name, address, and telephone number and your call will be promptly returned.
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