Pittsfield to Conduct Sewer System Smoke Testing

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield, in conjunction with engineering consulting firm Kleinfelder, has contracted Flow Assessment Services (FAS) to conduct Sewer System Smoke Testing for the purpose of locating sources of unwanted water entering the sanitary sewer system as required by the Department of Environmental Protection.

These sources of unwanted water can lead to reduced capacity in the sanitary sewer system, increased operational costs and wear and tear on infrastructure. From a long-term perspective, by addressing the issues identified through smoke testing, the city can better manage and lower overall operational and utility costs.

During smoke testing, field crews blow air and non-toxic white smoke into the sanitary sewer system in the street and monitor where smoke escapes the system. The smoke, under pressure, will fill the main line as well as any connections and then follow a path of any leak to the ground surface, quickly revealing the source of the problem. Only enough force to overcome atmospheric pressure is required, and smoke should escape from building roof vents.

This work will begin on Wednesday, Oct. 21 and continue over the next several months. Prior to the start of work, field crews from Flow Assessment Services will distribute door-to-door notice approximately 24 to 72 hours in advance of smoke testing within a designated area.

In addition, the city will be sending out notifications through the Mass Notification system prior to the start of work in a specific neighborhood. To sign up for Mass Notifications, residents should visit https://www.pittsfieldma.gov/alert-signup and the select the alerts they want to receive. An account will need to be created to receive alerts.

When crews appear in a neighborhood, they are expected to be in the area for a few hours however, each actual smoke test setup takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.

Residents are not required to be present at home during this test. When residents receive notice that smoke testing will take place, they should:

• Check to see that all drain traps under basins, washing facilities and floor drains contain water.
• Flush toilets.
• Run or pour water into all drains, including unused fixtures and floor drains.

If there is an individual within a household or business who has respiratory problems and/or mobility limitations, or for any additional questions about this work, contact the city's Engineering Department at (413) 499-9327 or Flow Assessment Services at (888) 311-9799.

For additional resources about smoke testing including frequently asked questions, please visit the Sanitary Sewer Smoke Testing page on the city's website.

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