Water supply interruptions are becoming more and more frequent in the UK, and they have the potential to catch businesses off guard, leaving them with costly, time consuming problems.
If your business experiences a power cut, you know who to contact. Problem with your internet or network? You know who to call.
But what if one of your employees turns a tap to discover that no water comes out? Would you know what to do?
The answer might not be as straightforward as you would expect…
If there is a water supply interruption and you are at home, you can call your water utility company. Water wholesalers have an obligation to sort the problem out for you. They will work to resolve the problem within a set timeframe to ensure you experience minimal disruption.
However, the same thing does not apply to businesses. Water wholesalers have no obligation to resolve supply interruptions for business customers in the same way.
Businesses in the UK are responsible for the continuity of their own water supply.
Unfortunately, many businesses do not realise this, finding out the hard way, when they are faced with the prospect of having no water and no plan for how to manage the situation.
The good news is that this can be avoided, providing you are willing to take a proactive approach, as temporary water supply specialist, Sven Parris (Water Direct), and water management expert, Neil Pendle (Waterscan) recently discussed.
Together in an interview conducted by Waterscan, they identified several simple steps that businesses can take to avoid potential problems and be more prepared in the event of a water supply interruption, including making use of data and technology.
Make Use of Data
Ensure that accurate meter readings are taken for your business.
Your water usage data can be combined with benchmarking information and expertise from companies such as Waterscan to identify potential risks. This gives you time to implement any necessary precautions and mitigation tactics rather than waiting for a problem to arise.
Make Use of Technology
Pressure loggers are another way to highlight areas of concern before they develop into larger problems, allowing you to take action and reduce disruption.
For more information on this subject, you can read the article in full here – but as a minimum, there are three key points to remember.
Key Takeaway Points:
1. Be aware that water supply continuity for your business is your responsibility.
2. Know what level of help you can expect from your water utility company should something go wrong.
3. Ensure that water is on your corporate risk register and included in your business continuity plan so that you know what to do in the event of a supply interruption.
You may also be interested in the following related posts on the subject of business continuity planning: