Water safety management during the initial phase of the Covid-19 pandemic: challenges, responses and guidance

Water safety plans address both routine operations and incident responses to support risk management in drinking water utilities. Their use and relevance in facing the challenges of the Covid-19 crisis were investigated via a survey distributed to water utilities and health or environmental agencies across the globe. Responses from 86 respondents from 38 countries were analysed to identify the water safety challenges faced and responses. Water safety plans appear to provide some preparedness and organizational advantages to utilities in facing the Covid-19 crisis, including stronger communication links between utilities and governing agencies. Guidance for future water safety planning is provided.

Automated summary

A survey was conducted to investigate the use and relevance of water safety plans in facing the challenges of the Covid-19 crisis. The analysis of responses from 86 respondents across 38 countries identified the water safety challenges faced and the advantages provided by water safety plans, including stronger communication links between utilities and governing agencies.