Climate change
Climate change could also be called a water crisis. In recent years we’ve been experiencing worsening floods, rising sea levels, shrinking ice fields, droughts and wildfires.
UK companies don’t tend to think about water risks in the workplace. Until now, flooding has been fairly predictable and water has been available even during droughts.
But as the climate warms, there’s no denying that we’re seeing more extreme weather – and that often means too little or too much water.
The risks of climate change
Floods and droughts are now sudden, unforeseen events – and they’re increasingly hitting areas in quick succession. More violent storms are making flooding a danger in areas that weren’t at risk before.
Areas you may visit regularly can become more dangerous when the river is flowing faster due to intense rain. Erosion of river edges can result in people accidentally entering the water, which can sadly result in tragic reports of fatalities.
These are just two examples of the water-related risks related to our changing climate. And climate change isn’t an existential threat – it’s happening now.
What do companies need to do?
Water risk may not seem like your most business pressing problem today. But it could be in the near future. That’s why it’s vital that companies make a plan of action as soon as possible.
Companies need to:
Embed water-related risks and opportunities
within their corporate governance and decision making. Everyone in the company should be involved and engaged - from the board to senior managers to employees at all levels of the workforce.
Gather relevant data
This will help you understand where the risks lie and how you can address them.
Develop and implement a water safety policy
This should be a collaborative, coordinated process. The strategy should aim to reduce drowning and other water-related harm.
In an emergency
Call 999
Help us save more lives
A report by the NWSF reported 236 accidental fatalities in 2023. This number was increase on the previous year highlighting that there is still much that needs to be done.
Taking simple steps can truly save lives. While rescue equipment like life rings and throwbags are useful, preventing access to the water is even more effective. Collaborate with your local authority, landowners, and water safety groups to implement strong safety measures. Maintaining longer or more hostile vegetation, for instance, is an effective way to discourage people from approaching the water. Rescue equipment should be seen as a last resort, as it can go missing or become unreliable without regular checks. Both proper vegetation management and the presence of rescue equipment are crucial in ensuring public safety.
Beginning to address water risk won’t be easy. But the longer you ignore it, the harder and more costly it will become.
Read more
Flood prevention
Are you a landowner with water running through, beneath or adjacent to your land? Read more about your responsiblities.
Float to live
If you find yourself struggling in the water, would you know what to do?