Safety Tips for Water Facility Management

The time is always right to perform a detailed review of your community’s safety procedures that protect your critical, yet sometimes overlooked assets. These include water treatment facilities, well houses, pump stations, aquatic facilities, or wastewater treatment facilities. Here are five tips to keep in mind when looking at the safety of your facility.

One

There are several categories of fire extinguishers on the market, with different ratings intended for different uses. For example, some are rated for electrical fires (Class C), while others are intended for grease fires (Class K).

Water extinguishers (APW extinguishers) should never be used on an electrical room or a grease fire, but are the only type of extinguisher that should be used for a chemical room that contains an oxidizing agent such as liquid chlorine.  Know the type you need, have them onsite, and train your staff on how to use them.

Two

Chemicals used within these facilities can be dangerous or life threatening. Do you have the proper procedures and safety equipment such as eye washes in place and are they currently working?

Three

Many of these facilities contain powered electrical devices that have the potential to create arc flash. Know your risk and the type of personal protection equipment you should be wearing when accessing or maintaining these devices.

Four

Have you performed a review of your safety equipment at each site such as emergency electrical stops, fresh air blowers, handrails, fall protection gear, or other features to ensure they are working properly?

Five

Have you taken the time to train your staff on the proper safety procedures in the case of an emergency? Have you coordinated with your local fire department or EMS on the procedure if an accident were to occur?

JEO is always here to assist you.  If you have questions about any of the above or need assistance, please give us a call.  Other great safety resources include the State Fire Marshal’s office (NE, IA), your local Emergency Manager (find yours here), or your local fire and rescue.