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Routine sewer system inspections are critical for municipalities. Failure to identify and eliminate blockages, leaks, or deterioration inside the sewer can lead to costly and dangerous overflows, environmental disasters, regulatory penalties, and PR nightmares. 

But regularly scheduled CCTV inspections inside these municipal sewer systems can help. By employing the proper state-of-the-art technologies and techniques, you can identify potential problems—including the most common sewer system issues—before they occur and keep your sewer system in peak working condition. 

Options for Routine Sewer System Inspections

Municipalities commonly have two options when it comes to routine sewer system maintenance and inspections: 

1. The naked eye, often with the help of a flashlight, usually conducted during manhole inspection
2. CCTV-equipped poles or robots for closer inspection

The first option is rife with problems. When we rely on the human eye and a flashlight, we’re much more likely to miss or miscategorize issues in the sewer system. These inaccuracies may then lead to costly performance problems later on.

But CCTV pipe inspection options hold a variety of benefits that can save your municipalities millions of dollars on repairs and fines.

General Advantages of Using CCTV For Sewer Inspections

Here are some of the biggest reasons CCTV systems are so important to municipalities: 

1. Closer to the Pipe - CCTV cameras and equipment allow you to travel through the pipe to locate and identify defects. 
2. Better Visuals - CCTV equipment is equipped with adjustable lighting and high resolution. Together, they provide better optics than a flashlight and the human eye. 
3. Greater Accuracy - With enhanced visual inspection, you’ll have an easier time identifying blockages, cracks, leaks, and other issues inside the pipe. 
4. AI Support - Many software options on the market offer AI-powered assistance in identifying issues inside the sewer system. In many cases, they’re even more accurate than professionals who’ve spent their entire lives working in the sewers!

If you’re not using CCTV pipe inspection technology in your sewer system, you could be setting your team up for failure in the future. 

8 Reasons Routine CCTV Inspections Are Important for Municipal Sewer Systems

The value of CCTV inspections goes well beyond a few simple advantages. Here are the biggest reasons to deploy CCTV technologies in your sewers: 

1. Cost-Efficiency in Sewer Inspections

Investing in routine CCTV sewer inspections requires an upfront expense, but the long-term advantages outweigh the costs. Early detection of leaks, blockages, and other issues allows municipalities to schedule and budget for repairs and avoid costly emergency construction or repairs.

2. Preventative Sewer System Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is key to controlling sewer system costs, and regular CCTV inspections are a cornerstone of any strong maintenance plan. In addition to minimizing repair expenses, this approach also reduces the financial burden on taxpayers by avoiding catastrophic repairs or construction. 

3. Sewer Infrastructure Longevity

Sewer systems are significant investments, and municipalities can extend the lifespan of this investment through consistent maintenance practices. Routine CCTV sewer inspections provide nuanced insights into the condition of pipes, allowing municipalities to implement targeted repairs or replacements. This measured approach extends the overall lifespan of the infrastructure, optimizing the return on investment.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Municipalities must comply with local, state, and federal environmental regulations and standards. Routine CCTV inspections ensure consistent, documented compliance by identifying key issues that could potentially lead to costly and even hazardous violations. A strong CCTV inspection schedule can shield municipalities from legal repercussions, expensive fines, and damaged public reputation.

5. Environmental Protection

Municipal sewer systems are essential for protecting bodies of water and critical waterways. Undetected leaks, breaches, or clogs can lead to the release of harmful substances into the environment and nearby water. Routine inspections with CCTV sewer camera equipment help identify these issues and enable municipalities to take corrective measures and protect local ecosystems. This proactive approach can prevent expensive fines from the Environmental Protection Agency and other regulatory bodies.

6. Public Health And Safety

Ensuring the integrity of sewer systems is directly linked to public health and safety. Malfunctions in these systems can lead to the release of raw sewage, which can create serious health risks for residents. Regular CCTV inspections act as a shield against potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases, contributing to a healthier and safer community.

7. Data-Driven Decision Making

Modern CCTV inspection equipment generates detailed data and imagery of sewer systems. This wealth of information empowers municipalities to make informed decisions regarding maintenance schedules, repairs, and upgrades. Data-driven insights enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of sewer system management.

8. Access to Sewer Inspection Software And AI

CCTV inspection equipment is often equipped with AI-powered software to identify and document issues in your sewer—often with greater accuracy than your human team members. These tools can reduce time spent on administrative tasks and increase the time spent actually inspecting your sewers.

Find the Right CCTV Inspection Camera Option

We offer a wide range of CUES CCTV inspection cameras and tools to meet your unique needs, training, and budget. Options include:

• Micro Pan & Tilt Camera - Ideal for standard sewer system inspections.
• Mini Pan & Tilt Camera - Ideal for navigating multiple wyes with 45- or 90-degree bends and sweeps.
• Digital Universal Camera - Ideal for enhanced inspection flexibility and efficiency.
• OZII Pan Tilt & Optical Zoom Camera - Ideal for high-quality imagery while inspecting pipes ranging from 6” to 72”.
• OZIII-S Camera - Ideal for capturing incredibly high-quality images during inspections.

Learn More About CUES CCTV Sewer System Inspection Equipment

To learn more, contact us or your CUES Regional Sales Representative or authorized dealer. We’ll help you pick the perfect tools for your budget, inspection schedule, and data needs.