Residents in a section of Northwest Norman should expect to see some unusual activity today, October 22, as the city conducts smoke testing on the sanitary sewer system. Specifically, the neighborhoods of Brookhaven northeast of and near the intersection of 48th Avenue NW and Robinson Street and part of the Rock Creek Polo Club area are the focus of these tests, according to a recent notice from the City of Norman. Duke’s Root Control, a contractor working on behalf of the city, will be looking for potential sewer system issues, a task prompted by previous assessments.
The process, which involves blowing odorless smoke through the sewer lines, will pinpoint any problems with the City's system and check for unauthorized connections with stormwater systems. For residents, this means seeing smoke emerge from vent pipes, manholes, and possibly areas with defects. According to the City of Norman announcement, "Smoke from the vent pipes and manholes indicates that system is working correctly; smoke from within the yard can be indicative of public or private sewer defects; and, smoke from downspouts and storm sewers indicate an improper connection."
Less than 100 homes are expected to be impacted by the testing and those homeowners should have received door hangers with detailed instructions and a QR code linking to an overview video. The city reassures residents that no Duke’s Root Control employees will need to enter any homes as the work is carried out exclusively at designated outdoor manholes. These instructions stress the importance of pouring water into infrequently used drains and fixtures to prepare for the test.
For verification and security, Duke’s representatives will be easily identifiable by badges and uniforms while they observe the testing. The operations are not anticipated to disrupt traffic or city services. The city has provided a point of contact for questions at 405-366-5443, where concerned or curious citizens can find out more about the impact of the testing.
