News & Media

Sanitary Sewer Vapour Testing

A contractor hired by the Town of Ladysmith is completing vapour testing of sanitary sewer mains starting Wednesday December 14, 2022 to Thursday December 15, 2022 in the downtown core and Old Town area.  Please refer to the map below for locations where the contractor is working.

Some properties in Ladysmith have sanitary sewer mains located in statutory right of ways (easements) which are owned and operated by the Town.  As a result, it may be necessary for our field crew to enter your yard to access existing sewer infrastructure.

Your presence during these inspections is not necessary.

Vapour Testing

The vapour testing will help to identify possible leaks and cross connections in the sewer system, which is an important part of keeping the system running efficiently.

The vapour you see coming from the sewer vent stacks on houses or holes in the ground is non-toxic, non-staining, white to gray in colour and creates no fire hazard.

If you see vapour in and around your neighborhood when our crews are in the vicinity, please do not be alarmed. Ladysmith Fire/Rescue Department has been notified of our work to help prevent false alarms.

Important! Although the vapour is non-toxic, it could cause irritation to any individuals in your home or business who have respiratory problems and are immobile. Please notify us as soon as possible if you have any respiratory problems, so we can schedule accordingly.

Vapour can sometimes enter your house. To prevent this, it is advised to run a small amount of water into any sink, drain or other fixture that may have not been used for a long period of time. This will fill the trap and should prevent any vapour from getting into your house. If you detect vapour in your house, please call 1-250-815-5775 or contact the crew outside for assistance.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this notice or the work outlined above, please feel free to contact the undersigned.

Ira Adams, AScT
Senior Engineering Technologist, Engineering Department
250.245.6442