Wastewater System "Smoke Testing"

Weather permitting, on Thursday September 10, Town of Bridgewater staff will be overseeing some "smoke testing" on Dufferin Street.

Please use caution and watch for staff carrying out this work when travelling in these areas on Friday.

What is Smoke Testing?

First thing’s first – it’s not really smoke.

During testing, a non-toxic, light gray, artificially created “smoke” – like a fog machine at a concert – is blown into access points (manholes) in the wastewater system.

Smoke testing is a method used to find potential leaks and deficiencies within the wastewater system, such as cracks and breaks, which would not otherwise be easily located without more intrusive and costly investigations, like excavation.

Plumes coming from plumbing vents and manhole rims during testing is normal. Plumes located in other areas can indicate defects and will be noted and photographed.

While not harmful to humans, pets, plants, it can be irritating to folks with respiratory issues.

If you see testing taking place near a manhole and you have respiratory problems, you may wish to avoid travelling through the area.

In some cases, you may see smoke test crews walking around the perimeter of your house or yard looking for smoke exiting the sewer system.

When this type of work is carried out, if you are home and happen to notice any unexpected smoke inside or outside your home, you can notify a member of the test team in the area if you see them, or you can call 902-541-4370 to report any issue.