Smoke testing for selected sewer systems on base begins

  • Published
  • By URS Group, Inc.
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Air Combat Command and Whiteman AFB have contracted with URS Group, Inc. and ADS Environmental Services to perform a physical inspection and smoke testing of base sanitary sewers and manholes. 

Smoke testing will begin Sept. 23 in all areas of the base except  military family housing.  Testing is expected to contine until Oct. 10.

Smoke testing is conducted in order to determine where cracks and other defects are located in the sewer system. Smoke will exit the pipe through these defects and make its way to the surface where it can be observed and documented by field crews.

Smoke will also exit through the normal venting systems in the sewer. It is common to see gray smoke exiting from the rooftop vents on buildings during smoke testing. This is expected and does not cause concern. Smoke should not enter buildings unless defective plumbing exists or drain traps are dry.

If you have seldom used drains (e.g., shower stalls, floor drains) in your shop or office space, please pour a gallon of water in each drain to fill the drain trap. This procedure will help prevent the possibility of smoke entering your office or shop space during the smoke testing activity.

More information on what to expect while tests are being conducted will be provided to the base population in the form of flyers posted to affected buildings.

These tests utilize a non-toxic, non-hazardous chemical smoke that leaves no residue and creates no fire hazard. Field crews will be wearing ADS uniforms and vehicles will be marked with ADS logos. Information gained from this study will be used to repair and improve the Whiteman wastewater collection system.

Questions regarding the smoke testing activity should be directed to 509 Civil Engineer Squadron at 687-6243.