Town aiming to prevent mishandling, contaminations at bulk water stations

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Town of Strathmore is taking steps to prevent mishandling of water through the Bulk Water Station, following an incident which resulted in purchased water being overflown. 

Council passed the Water Utility Amending Bylaw during the June 18 regular meeting. The updates aim primarily to protect the water supply and support the added benefit of assisting in environmental matters and limiting spills or releases. 

“We have had a couple of close calls or minor incidents in the recent past in which we were not at risk of harm, however it was enough to entice us to update the bylaw to ensure we were fully protected, to ensure that there were measures in terms of penalties if appropriate, and to make it very clear on what the expectations are for anybody purchasing bulk water,” said Ethan Wilson, manager of infrastructure for the Town of Strathmore. 

Customers who are currently using the Bulk Water Station will not see a change to services, assuming they had been previously following best practices and adhering to the plumbing code. 

For users who had not been following proper procedures, the bylaw is now written to clearly reflect current requirements, as well as penalties, should they choose to continue to dismiss them.

Failure to provide appropriate protections while utilizing the bulk water station may result in a first offense penalty of $500 to the offender. Subsequent penalties are listed to be $1,500 and $5,000 respectively. 

Mixing of products which may or may not cause harm while purchasing bulk water may result in a first offense fine of $250. Subsequent fines are noted to be $500 for a second offense, and $1,000 for a third offense. Any mixing of products must occur offsite of the bulk water station.

Additionally, liability is now transferred from the town to the user should any mishandlings occur while the Bulk Water Station is in use. 

Town administration noted no impacts to the local potable water system have been had thus far due to incidents at the station; however, the risk of potential contamination has become too high and must be mitigated. 

When mishandlings occur, it is likely to result in a spill. Although spilling of potable water is minor on the scale of possible contaminations, other factors such as mixed products including chemicals can increase the severity of the contamination.

Following Wilson’s presentation, the bylaw received all three readings unanimously by council without further discussion.

The amended bylaw came into effect immediately upon signing once council had voted its approval.