SALISBURY, Maryland — The Department of Infrastructure and Development (DID) will conduct sewer line cleaning, CCTV inspections, and smoke testing of multiple sewer main sections in downtown Salisbury from September 2 through September 9, between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
The affected areas include:
- E. Market Street
- W. Market Street
- Poplar Hill Avenue
- Baptist Street
- Calvert Street (between Baptist Street and Poplar Hill Avenue)
This work is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve sewer system infrastructure.
What Residents and Businesses Can Expect
During the project, residents and business owners may hear our Vacuum Truck, Camera Van, and Bypass Pump truck. During inspection and smoke testing, employees will mark areas of concern. While the smoke is non-toxic, it may fill a room. To help ventilate, please open windows and doors if possible. Temporary traffic control will be in place on affected streets to safely access manholes.
How Smoke Testing Works
Field crews introduce non-toxic smoke and air into the sanitary sewer lines and observe where the smoke escapes. The pressurized smoke travels through the main line and connected laterals, following any leaks or breaks to the surface. This allows crews to quickly pinpoint potential problem areas.
Benefits of Smoke Testing
Smoke testing is an efficient and cost-effective method to identify unauthorized water entering the public sewer system. It also helps locate structural issues in the sewer network that require repair. Many communities use smoke testing as part of regular maintenance to protect wastewater treatment systems.
Safety and Precautions
- Duration: Each smoke test typically takes about 20 minutes, though crews may be in your neighborhood for several hours. Most properties are affected by only one or two test setups.
- If Smoke Enters Your Building: Do not be alarmed. Open windows to ventilate, note where the smoke is entering, and exit if possible. Notify nearby smoke-testing personnel. If unsure whether the smoke is part of the test, call Salisbury Fire Department at 410-548-3120.
- Precautions: Evacuating is a precaution in case the smoke is due to a real fire or indicates potential sewer gases entering the building. Individuals with respiratory conditions should consider stepping outside for about 20 minutes or ventilating the building.
- Pets: Smoke is non-toxic and will not harm pets. It dissipates quickly, especially if windows are open.
- Smoke Alarms: Smoke alarms may be triggered during testing. Ventilate as needed.
- What Smoke Inside a Home Means: Smoke entering a home may indicate plumbing issues, such as defective traps, vent pipes, or seals. Running water in seldom-used drains can help prevent these issues.
Public Safety and Notification
- The fire and police departments will be notified in advance.
- Local businesses along the inspection route will receive notification letters from Premier Service Group, LLC, including a Smoke Testing FAQ. Notifications are delivered at least 48 hours prior to work beginning.
Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the materials provided and contact the City with any questions regarding the project.
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