While many GWSs have significantly enhanced their resilience following past weather events such as Storm Eowyn/Amy/ Bram etc. this page should serve as a reminder of some key points for your GWS to consider as we head into the winter months.
Structured and Proactive Approach
Every GWS operates within a unique context: geographically, operationally, and structurally. As such, it is essential that each scheme has a bespoke, site-specific emergency response plan. Effective planning enables boards and management teams to focus on what is controllable, ensuring a structured and proactive approach to risk mitigation. A practical framework for this planning process is to consider actions across three key phases:
- Pre-storm: Preparation and risk reduction
- During the storm: Safety and continuity
- Post-storm: Recovery and assessment
The following guidance outlines critical actions that GWS managers should prioritise to safeguard water supply, infrastructure, and most importantly, the health and safety of staff, contractors, and volunteers.
Advice and Support
Stay informed through Met Éireann and local news outlets for real-time updates.
Conditions can change quickly and early warnings are essential for timely decision-making.
Staff and volunteers should follow all official travel and safety advice. Adhere to weather warnings and their advice around outdoor work etc., being especially cognisant of areas with potential for falling trees or debris. Ensure all personnel have access to:
- Emergency contact numbers
- High-visibility clothing and safety gear
- A designated post-storm meeting point in case phone networks are down
Where possible, maximise treated water storage before the storm arrives. Power outages can disrupt treatment plants and pumping stations, so having reserves in place is critical to maintaining supply. Power failures may disable remote monitoring systems, including reservoir level alerts. Prepared to physically inspect key infrastructure after the storm.
Report outages to ESB Networks and notify your NFGWS development officer if the outage is prolonged or impacts service delivery. Keep members and stakeholders informed before, during, and after the storm. Share your emergency GWS contact number in advance and use multiple channels, such as text alerts, social media, and email to communicate service updates or disruptions.
Remind members that they can support the scheme by conserving water and reporting leaks. Tree roots damaged by high winds can compromise underground pipework, leading to undetected losses.
Generators
In regard to generators, it is vitally important that all key GWS infrastructure is at least set up to utilise a generator should the need occur (check size of generator and ensure change-over switch is installed). Many GWSs have purchased generators (in consultation with DBO operators where applicable), with some purchasing a generator to share among a small bundle. Other GWSs have arrangements in place for priority hire. Ensure generators are operational and fuelled. If your scheme does not have a generator, confirm access to one in the event of a prolonged outage. Backup power is essential for maintaining treatment and supply continuity.
Inspect and secure all gates, doors, fittings, and loose equipment. High winds can cause significant damage to unfastened materials, leading to costly repairs and service interruptions. Charge all battery-powered tools, phones, and lighting equipment. Ensure essential supplies are available in case access to local shops or suppliers is disrupted. After the storm, check in on elderly or vulnerable members to ensure they have continued access to safe drinking water.
For schemes operating under Design, Build, Operate (DBO) contracts, it is advisable to contact your DBO operator to confirm their storm response plans and ensure alignment with your own. The safety of GWS personel is paramount.
By taking proactive steps, schemes can minimise disruption and respond effectively to future storm challenges. For further advice, please contact your local NFGWS development officer at: NFGWS Contacts.
This article originally featured in the most recent edition of the Rural Water News magazine. To read the full edition and to sign up to our magazine mailing list, click here.
