From November through April, much of Canada experiences freezing temperatures. During that time, lows frequently reach subzero temperatures. Uni-Jet Industrial Pipe Service Ltd conducts cleaning and inspections for 6" to more than 10' pipes. Much of this work is done in Winnipeg, but they service a territory ranging from Nova Scotia to the Northern Rockies of British Columbia, meaning inspection teams need to be ready for anything. With over 40 years in operation, its crews have learned to navigate wet and icy conditions. And with WinCan VX to support their field work, they’ve developed a workflow designed to keep teams inspecting lines all year-round, in spite of the weather. 

Geography and climate play a big role in the development of sewer inspection workflows. The changing seasons affect the ground and buried infrastructure: The winter months bring freezing and contraction, while warmer weather thaws and loosens the earth. Some communities have no problem inspecting sewers and conducting rehab year-round, but others are limited by these weather patterns. 

The most robust sewer inspection software in today’s market offers users many different features to optimize efficiency, so it’s important that users know how to access all elements of it. To ensure they get the most out of their purchase, WinCan offers personal training opportunities designed around the customer’s needs.  

There’s a lot for public works departments to consider when preparing for the transition into fall’s cooler temperatures, including their effect on day-to-day sewer collection system operations. The new season brings obvious challenges for wastewater systems — like fall foliage and increased rainfall — but it can also impact a department’s ability to inspect efficiently.

The departure of long-time employees can be a concern for companies and municipalities and lead to questions of how they will effectively replace such valuable workers and their wealth of knowledge and experience.

Freezing temperatures can shut down much of a city, even in the most prepared areas. But even in the worst weather, the need for sewer maintenance remains high. While a storm rages above ground, effluent continues flowing and pipes continue degrading. So how do crews keep moving during storms? Prioritize.