Dye Testing
Over the next 12 years, the City of Atlanta will inspect, repair and where necessary,
replace every foot of the 2,200 miles of sanitary sewers. This unprecedented $1.2
billion project is an integral part of the City’s comprehensive efforts
to meet and surpass all federal and state water quality standards. 
The successful completion of the Clean Water Atlanta projects will benefit
Atlanta’s citizens and ratepayers, and our neighbors downstream and throughout
the region by providing the infrastructure necessary to improve water quality
and sustain Atlanta’s economic vitality.
The SSES project is the first step in bringing Atlanta’s aging sewer
system up to world class/modern-day standards and protecting Atlanta ratepayers’
quality of life by eliminating Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs). Through the
efforts of the SSES, approximately 60,000 manholes and 2,200 miles of sanitary
sewers will be inspected for cracks, collapses, and blockages. After extensive
investigation and documentation of defects is completed, a rehabilitation plan
will be developed, identifying necessary sewer repairs and replacement. In severe
situations, immediate repair may be required.
One of the methods being used to survey the sewer lines is non-toxic dye testing.
What is dye testing and why is it conducted?
Dye testing is a method used to locate rain or ground water entry points into
the sanitary sewer system. During this process, non-toxic dyed water is introduced
into roof drain leaders, driveway drains, or area drains. In some instances,
dyed water is injected into the ground around foundations to check for the illegal
connection of foundation drains. After introducing the dyed water, the downstream
sanitary sewer manhole is checked, or if an inspection port is present, it is
checked for dyed water. Dye testing with a non-toxic dye is one way of determining
where a pipe or structure drains to if it is not obvious by observation or on
existing plans or records. By conducting dye testing, inappropriate connections
can be identified. For instance, if a dye is introduced to a catch basin and
the dye is then observed in the sanitary sewer downstream from that point, this
would indicate that the catch basin is directly connected to the sanitary sewer
system.
 Is the
dye safe? Is the dye permanent?
The dye is non-toxic and cleans up with water. It is highly unlikely that a
citizen would come in direct contact with the dye.
How will I know when and if dye testing is being conducted in my area?
The residents of the affected testing area will receive notices 1 week prior
to testing. Contact numbers will be provided if you should have any questions
or concerns.
What if I am not home when the crew comes to test?
Unless access is needed to plumbing inside your home, you may not need to be
home during testing. If access is needed, the testing crew will contact you
personally prior to the scheduled testing.
For additional SSES Project information please call the CWA Hotline at 404.529.9211
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