Smoke Testing
About
The test consists of blowing highly visible non-toxic “smoke” into the sanitary sewer system at manholes and observing the locations where the smoke exits to the surface (manholes, catch basins, roof top plumbing vents, connected downspouts, driveway drains etc). The “smoke” that is used is manufactured for this purpose. It is non-toxic, odourless, non-staining (on clothing, draperies or furniture) and has no known effects on people or pets. If you come into contact with the “smoke” it is not harmful to your health and will dissipate shortly after test completion.
The fire department will be notified during testing. Please do not be concerned if you see smoke coming out of your rooftop vents or street manholes. This is normal.
During the testing, TQI staff will be on-site to observe & record smoke exit points. TQI staff will be wearing identification badges, orange safety vests and will not need to enter onto your property.It is not necessary for you to be home during the test, as the primary concern is external deficiencies.
Smoke should not enter your building, unless you have:
- A leak due to defective, damaged /improper plumbing (including traps, tubs, showers, pipes)
- Dry traps (infrequently used drains) or uncapped piping rough-ins
To help prevent “smoke” unnecessarily entering your building, the City asks you to pour a litre of water into your basement floor drains and unused showers, sinks and piping rough-ins PRIOR to the start of testing on June 22nd. The water added to the drains / traps will be effective for several months.