The inspection, testing, and repair of lateral connections for sanitary sewers are regular practice necessary for the maintenance and optimal performance of the system. It is important to identify methods that use the most current compounds and technology to ensure the reduction of infiltration and exfiltration. It is important to minimize disruption to traffic and lessen the environmental impacts for both the municipal and private owners.

This practice serves as a means to inspect, test, and seal sewer lateral connections and a predetermined portion of the lateral lines from the mainline sewer, having selected the appropriate chemical grouts using the lateral packer method. Television (or optical) inspection and sewer lateral connection testing are used to assess the condition and document any repairs.

This practice should not be used where mainline and lateral connections are found with longitudinally cracked pipe, structurally unsound pipe, or flattened or out of round pipe.

1.1 This practice covers the procedures for testing and sealing sewer lateral connections and lateral lines from the mainline sewer with appropriate chemical grouts using the lateral packer method. Chemical grouting is used to stop infiltration of ground water and exfiltration of sewage in gravity flow sewer systems that are structurally sound.

1.2 This practice applies to mainline sewer diameters of 6 to 24 in. with 4, 5, or 6 in. diameter laterals. Larger diameter pipes with lateral connections and lines can be grouted with special packers or man-entry methods. The mainline and lateral pipes must be structurally adequate to create an effective seal.

1.3 Worker safety training should include reviewing the biohazards and gases from sewage, confined spaces, pumping equipment, and related apparatus. Additional safety considerations including proper handling, mixing, and transporting of chemical grouts should be provided by the chemical grout manufacturer or supplier, or both. Their safe operating practices and procedures should describe in detail appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the various grouting operations. Operations covered should include the proper storage, transportation, mixing, and disposal of chemical grouts, additives, and their associated containers.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.