Did you know water caused over $2 billion in damages last year?
In 2023, Canada experienced over $3.1 billion in insured damage due to severe weather, making it the fourth-costliest year for insurance claims in the country’s history. The year saw record-breaking wildfires and extensive flooding, which led to widespread destruction across almost all regions of Canada – with water accounting for over 65% of damages incurred.

Water is vital for many industrial and residential processes, but it also poses several risks. As we navigate through water related risks and restrictions, it’s crucial to be aware of and implement safety measures to minimize hazards and adhere to new regulations. This month’s update covers both general water hazards and specific actions needed due to the upcoming Stage 4 water restrictions in Calgary.
Water Hazards Overview
Understanding these hazards and knowing how to mitigate them is essential for ensuring safety and efficiency. Recent severe weather events in Calgary and Quebec—such as a hailstorm and a hurricane—underscore the importance of effective emergency response and water management (and Hurricane Ernesto is right around the corner). Here’s how these events impact water safety and workplace preparedness:
- Flooding Risk: Hurricanes bring heavy rains and storm surges that can lead to extensive flooding, affecting both residential and industrial areas. This can result in significant property damage and safety hazards. Hailstorms can cause localized flooding due to heavy rain and blocked drainage systems. This can lead to water pooling, increasing slip and fall hazards and potentially damaging facilities.
- Water Contamination: Flooding can lead to the contamination of water supplies, impacting both drinking water and water used in industrial processes.
- Facility Damage: Hail can damage roofs, windows, and other parts of buildings, leading to leaks and uncontrolled water release.
It’s not only ecological disasters that introduce hazards; water usage can always pose various health and safety risks especially within industrial environments. The following lists different water-related hazards, as well as preventative measures to minimize risks.
- Slip and Fall Hazards:
- Wet floors and surfaces can become dangerously slippery. Falls can result in serious injuries.
- Electrocution:
- Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Electrical equipment exposed to water can cause shocks or fires.
- Ergonomic Risks:
- Handling large volumes of water improperly can lead to musculoskeletal injuries.
- Chemical Reactions:
- In industrial settings, water may react with chemicals, potentially causing hazardous reactions or toxic fumes.
Preventative Measures:
- Slip and Fall Prevention:
- Keep floors and walkways dry and clean. Use slip-resistant mats or coatings.
- Post warning signs in areas with water spillage.
- Keep electrical equipment and outlets away from water.
- Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electric shocks.
- Have qualified personnel handle electrical work near water.
- Safe Handling:
- Use PPE when dealing with water, especially where chemical interactions are possible.
- Employ correct lifting techniques and mechanical aids to minimize ergonomic risks.
- Water Management:
- Implement and maintain effective drainage systems.
- Regularly inspect these systems to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Regularly inspect facilities to address potential water related hazards.
- Environmental Protection:
- Dispose of contaminated water properly to avoid environmental harm.
- Review and update environmental practices regularly.
- Emergency Response:
- Develop and communicate emergency response plans for water related incidents.
- Train employees in the use of spill kits and first aid.
To effectively manage water safety amid recent severe weather, it is crucial to review and update all water handling and safety procedures, ensuring they reflect current risks and compliance requirements.
Employees should be thoroughly trained on water-related hazards and preventive measures to enhance preparedness and response. Regular facility inspections are essential to identify and address potential water-related hazards, ensuring that any issues are promptly repaired and that safety standards are consistently maintained.
Stage 4 Water Restrictions Calgary
Starting August 26, Calgary and surrounding municipalities that rely on the Bearspaw water main will enter Stage 4 water restrictions for four weeks. This will involve a ban on outdoor potable water use and a 25% voluntary reduction in indoor water use.
Key Safety Considerations:
- Operational Adjustments:
- Prioritize Essential Uses: Focus on critical operations that depend on water and adjust or suspend nonessential uses.
- Optimize Water Use: Implement water saving measures in processes without compromising safety.
- Equipment and Facility Management:
- Inspect and Repair Leaks: Regularly check for and fix leaks in water systems.
- Monitor Water Levels: Keep track of water usage to stay within restrictions and avoid supply issues.
- Emergency Preparedness:
- Update Emergency Plans: Include scenarios involving reduced water availability in emergency plans.
- Train Staff: Inform employees about how restrictions impact their tasks and any procedure changes.
- Health and Safety Implications:
- Maintain Hygiene Standards: Ensure hygiene is upheld in food preparation and medical facilities despite water restrictions.
- Adjust Cooling Systems: Explore alternative cooling methods or technologies if your industry relies on water for cooling or if workers are being consistently exposed to high temperatures/heat.
By reviewing and updating water handling and safety procedures, and staying informed of current risks and regulations, we can better protect both people and facilities. Continued vigilance and adherence to safety measures will enhance preparedness and ensure that we navigate water-related challenges effectively and safely.
Source Documents:
- Critical water main break (calgary.ca)
- Storm Debby: 35 Quebec municipalities affected by rainstorm as clean up begins | CTV News
- Hurricane Ernesto in Canada: Tracking updates | CTV News
- Severe Weather in 2023 Caused Over $3.1 Billion in Insured Damage (ibc.ca)
Resources and Legislation