Smoke test coming to Michigan Street sewers Thursday

A smoke test will be conducted in sanitary sewer system along West Michigan Street between Second and Fourth avenues west Thursday, starting at 10 a.m., said a city of Duluth news release on Wednesday. For the diagnostic test, smoke will be introduced into the sanitary sewer system to identify flaws in the sewer pipes and locate illegal or inadvertent connections.
The smoke is intended to fill the sanitary sewer system and will release from such cross connections and piping flaws. As a result, smoke can potentially enter buildings through cracks or through dry or infrequently used plumbing. Although the smoke is nontoxic and non-staining, it can emit a slight odor and can be an irritant to some people if inhaled. In the event that smoke enters an office or building during the test period, pouring water down floor drains, sink drains, toilets and ventilation will disperse the smoke.
This test is similar to the one being conducted in the Lakeside neighborhood.
The test will help Oneida Realty Company identify and remedy any potential problems within the sanitary sewer system of their buildings and will help ensure a reliable system for all customers, the news release said.
Anyone with questions should contact Phil Lockett, the city’s consultant with MSA Professional Services, Inc. at (218) 348-9161.