City of Venice Utilities Department contractor USSI LLC will be conducting smoke testing within the sewer system in certain areas throughout the City next week.
View these maps for approximate locations.
This testing will be conducted Monday through Friday, Nov. 18-22, between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. Residents do not need to be home during the testing, which will take about 15 minutes. All affected customers will receive a door hanger with additional information at least 72 hours in advance. During the test, crews will be on foot making small repairs, taking pictures, making notes, and spray painting the ground for future repairs. As a reminder, please do not remove manhole covers or remove or modify clean-out lids, especially during extreme weather events, as this can directly impact the sewer system.
Why This Test is Commonly Used: This routine preventative maintenance test will help identify leaks, defects, and stormwater inflows in the sewer system, thereby improving wastewater treatment operations and efficiency.
What to Expect: If you received a door hanger, you should expect to see a smoke test crew in your area in the next few days. While smoke can be expected to be visible coming out of manhole covers and vent stacks in roofs, it should not enter homes. To reduce the likelihood of smoke entering a building, it is recommended that you pour 2-3 gallons of water into seldom-used sinks and floor drains, where the smoke could arise due to lack of water pressure. This may be done at any time prior to the test. If there is a manhole on your property, USSI will need access to conduct the test.
How the Test Works: The test consists of forcing safe smoke oil into the sewer lines and observing where it escapes in order to determine the location of leaks and defects. Odorless and safe, the smoke leaves no residuals or stains and has no adverse effect on people, plants, or animals. The test generally last about 15 minutes from start to finish.
If Problems are Found: You may be notified upon completion of the project if there are any problems found on your property.
Special Requests: While smoke testing is safe, residents with heart or respiratory conditions may contact USSI at 1-888-645-9570 or 941-926-2646 between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to inquire about testing schedules and have a call ahead placed, only if needed. Contractor work will be performed by USSI LLC crews in easily recognizable uniforms.
For more information and videos that pertain to smoke testing, visit www.ussiusa.com
