Ep 5. Sewer Inspector

In season 1, episode 5 of Dirty Jobs, host Mike Rowe takes on the role of a sewer inspector. Through this experience, he learns just how important sewer systems are to our daily lives.

The episode begins with Rowe meeting with a team of sewer inspectors in San Francisco. They explain to him that their job is to go down into the sewers and make sure everything is functioning properly. The team shows Rowe the equipment he will be using, including a camera that attaches to a long snake-like tube, so he can inspect the pipes without actually having to go down into them himself.

Rowe starts out by inspecting a main line that is over 50 feet deep. Despite his initial reluctance, he slowly climbs down the ladder and eventually makes it down to the bottom. Once there, he begins to maneuver the camera along the walls of the pipe to search for any signs of damage or blockages. Rowe is shocked by the conditions he sees, with thick layers of sludge coating the walls and an overwhelming smell that permeates the air.

As Rowe continues his inspection, he encounters numerous challenges, including encountering large rats and dealing with equipment malfunctions. However, he perseveres and makes his way through the pipes, eventually discovering a major issue that is causing a blockage. The team works together to fix the issue, which involves clearing out a large pile of debris caused by years of buildup.

Despite the grueling conditions and challenging work, Rowe is amazed by the team’s passion for their job and the level of expertise they bring to this important profession. He also gains a newfound appreciation for the often-overlooked sewer system and the critical role it plays in our daily lives.

Overall, season 1, episode 5 of Dirty Jobs is a fascinating look into the world of sewer inspection. Rowe’s journey through the pipes is as engaging as it is educational, and viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for the dirty work that keeps our cities running smoothly.