Emergency preparedness after COVID-19: A review of policy statements in the U.S. water sector

Robert B Sowby

doi:10.1016/j.jup.2020.101058

Emergency preparedness after COVID-19: A review of policy statements in the U.S. water sector

Util Policy. 2020 Jun:64:101058. doi: 10.1016/j.jup.2020.101058. Epub 2020 May 13.

Author

Robert B Sowby¹

Affiliation

¹ Water Resources Engineer, Hansen, Allen & Luce, Inc., 859 W. South Jordan Pkwy. Ste. 200, South Jordan, UT, 84095, USA.

Abstract

Although COVID-19 has impacted water and wastewater utilities in new and profound ways, they must still provide their vital services despite the disruptions. The pandemic brings into focus their need for proactive emergency preparedness. In the United States, professional associations have long advocated in this area and have already developed considerable policy guidance and resources to help water and wastewater utilities prepare for and respond to emergencies. In the midst of the crisis, several U.S. policies are reviewed here. Utilities should reflect on their COVID-19 experience, learn from it, and apply their newfound perspective to strengthen future emergency preparedness.

Keywords: COVID-19; Emergency; Water.