Ludington to perform sewer line testing next week.

Ludington to perform sewer line testing next week. 

LUDINGTON — The City of Ludington, and its engineer, Fleis & VandenBrink, will be testing City sewer lines from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 9, weather permitting.

City Manager John Shay said the city  is trying to identify the sources of the inflow of storm water into the city’s sanitary sewer system on the north side of town.  

“The results of the smoke testing may impact the scope of next year’s project to replace the sanitary sewer mains under portions of Diana Street, North Washington Avenue, Resseguie St., North Lavinia Street, Pere Marquette Street, and North James Street,” Shay said.

As a result, smoke may be seen coming from roof vents, catch basins, clean-outs, down spouts or manhole covers. The smoke will not enter a resident’s home or business if it is properly plumbed, vented, and the water traps contain water, Shay said.

Residents who have a plumbing fixture that is not used or is seldom used should fill the trap by pouring water into the drain or basin prior to the start date of the testing.

Shay said the smoke used is a non-toxic substance that is relatively harmless to humans, pets, food, and material items.  

The smoke could potentially cause some minor irritation to nasal passages, a public notice from the engineer states. Any irritation will be temporary and should quickly disappear after exposure has ceased. Persons with heart and respiratory ailments should leave the house during the test.  House pets will react in a manner similar to people and will want to leave the smokey area. If an exit is not available be sure pets are provided with proper ventilation.

A representative from the city or engineer will be in the area of this work at all times.  

If smoke does enter the building, it will clear in a few minutes with proper ventilation.

Residents are asked to advise a representative of the smoke testing crew if any leakage occurs in their home or business.

Anyone with questions about the test, health issues or any other concerns, may ask a member of the crew during work activities, or contact Shay, 400 S. Harrison St., Ludington, MI 49431, 231-845-6237 or the engineer’s representative, Don DeVries, at Fleis & VandenBrink, Project Engineer at 231-726-1000.

A resident’s presence is not required during the tests, and all public safety authorities will be notified of this event prior to starting, the notice states.