Smoke testing in South West Rocks
Published on 12 February 2021
Residents in South West Rocks may see smoke rising out of the ground or sewers over the coming weeks but there is nothing to be concerned about.
Kempsey Shire Council is carrying out inspections to reduce stormwater infiltration into the sewerage system.
They plan to be in a section of Delmer Close over the next month, then in March will look at the lower section of Simpson Street, a section of Bruce Field Street south of Simpson Street, a section of Rafferty Crescent, John Taggart and a Section of Lionel Hogan Close. Then over April the team plan to run inspections in Everglades Estate, Crystal Place, Rippon Place, Kallantina Place, Keith Andrews Avenue and Pisces Place.
During heavy rainfalls stormwater infiltration can overload the sewerage system which in turn can result in surcharges on to property. By inspecting pipes, guttering and openings, Council can identify leaks that cause these overloads and schedule repairs.
The inspection process includes a variety of techniques including:
- Visual inspections of yard gullies and inspection openings
- Camera inspections of pipelines
- Smoke and dye testing of household drainage pipelines and guttering
Smoke testing involves injecting smoke into sewer lines to identify defects where this smoke will escape and be visible.
Dye testing involves pouring dye into the stormwater drainage to identify defects where the dye is running into the sewer lines.
While the appearance of coloured water or smoke emerging from pipes or the ground is unusual there is no cause for concern in this instance.
On the days when work is being carried out premises, residents are asked to limit the use of toilets, baths, showers, sinks, dishwashers and washing machines, to refrain entirely from backwashing swimming pools and to restrain any pets.
If you have any concerns regarding the works, please contact Council Customer Service Centre on 6566 3200 and ask to speak with Lachlan Lyttle, Senior Operator Water & Sewer Networks or aCraig Bush, Operator Water & Sewer Networks.