Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Wastewater Department to Conduct Leak Test in Sanitary Sewer System in Area Affected by February Flooding
May 22, 2018
AKWESASNE, NY — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Water/Wastewater Department anticipates conducting a one-day leak test in the sanitary sewer system on Wednesday, May 30th beginning at approximately at 8:00 a.m. A New York Rural Water Association (NYRWA) technician will be assisting in this leak test. A NON-TOXIC smoke will be blown in to the system to reveal leaks that allow storm water and other surface waters to enter. “Locating and correcting these leaks will conserve expensive capacity at the treatment facility. A record will be made. We are concentrating in the area that recently went through the flood which may also expose any damage,” said Water/Wastewater Manager Shawn Martin. During the week prior to May 30th, residents in the area are asked to pour water down all drains in your home or building to ensure all traps are full.
The smoke is manufactured for this purpose only, it leaves no residual stains and has no effects on plants or animals. It has a distinctive but not an unpleasant odor. The visible smoke and odor only last a few minutes where there is adequate ventilation. The smoke should not enter your home. However, if smoke does appear in your home any of the following could be a probable cause:
- The vents connected to the buildings sewer lateral are inadequate, defective or improperly installed.
- The traps under sinks, tubs, showers, basins, floor, drains are dry, defective, improperly installed or missing.
- The pipes, connections and seals of the buildings sewer system are damaged, defective, have plugs missing or are improperly installed.
- If traces of smoke or its odor enter your house or building, it is an indication that odor from the sewer system may also be entering. This can be unpleasant, dangerous and a potential health hazard. The identification, location, and correction of the source of any smoke entering your house is urgently advised.
- All sump pumps should be piped outside to daylight and not into the collection system.
The SRMT can provide assistance in locating the source of smoke entering your home. However, correction of defects in the pipes and sewer on your property is your responsibility, the owner. If smoke is observed in your home and the source is not readily identified or if you have any questions, please call Shawn Martin, Water/Wastewater Plant Manager at (518) 358-4205 ext. 2703.
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