Community Corner
Sewer TV - Remote Cameras Used To Prevent Major Backups In Des Moines Sanitary Sewer System
'Beane estimates that roughly 10% or around 100 miles of the sanitary sewer system will be inspected and have video taken this year.'
July 7, 2021
Des Moines, Iowa
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“We’re really looking to proactively address potential hazards in our sanitary sewer system to prevent costlier issues,” Public Works Director Jonathan Gano said. “This is a massive effort that’s going to take some time, but should pay dividends in how we can efficiently protect our sanitary sewer system.”
“Televising” the sanitary sewer system involves a crew sending a remote camera into the sewers and rating, describing and logging the location of any defects found. Another member of the crew also visually inspects and rates each of the surface access points to help City employees prioritize proactive repairs.
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To speed up the process, Des Moines Public Works has augmented its own televising systems with a contractor, Equix, who is currently conducting televising work throughout the City. Beane estimates that roughly 10% or around 100 miles of the sanitary sewer system will be inspected and have video taken this year.
“Most people don’t really think about their sanitary sewers,” Beane said. “But when you flush your toilets or wash your dishes, that water has to go somewhere and it comes to the sanitary sewer system pipes. We’re hoping to improve that system by taking steps to identify and address issues before they cause larger damages.”
This press release was produced by the City of Des Moines. The views expressed here are the author’s own.