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Essential Public Services Working Through COVID-19

by Eddie Rayner

In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, most industries had to take a step back and re-evaluate their response plan. On the other hand, vital sectors such as the public health service is working round the clock to combat the pandemic and deliver the necessary services to the community.

Sharjah-based company, Qatra Water Solutions is an essential public service company, ensuring the treatment and recycling of domestic wastewater. It is a part of the critical infrastructure for Sharjah and is required to be continuously operational.

Due to the country-wide lockdown being implemented, Qatra is facing an unprecedented demand for wastewater treatment from all over the emirate. There has been a substantial increase in the wastewater flow (close to 20%), putting the treatment plant under pressure. The company, however, had no choice but to cope with it, as releasing the untreated wastewater to the environment would be a health hazard and an ecological disaster. 

Due to the nature of the wastewater treatment plant, the management of risk related to infection is a known and managed safety issue that is dealt with on a daily basis at Qatra. However, the ongoing pandemic has pushed the company to take much more stringent measures to further ensure the safety of their employees which are at the core of their operations and are adhering to government guidelines issued for the public-private sector. 

  1. Multiple teams have been formed to take over daily tasks in case of emergencies
  2. The teams have been isolated completely from the outside world. Accommodation on-site has been provided. 
  3. Regular disinfection of the facilities is being done.
  4. Employees strictly follow public guidelines such as maintaining social distance, wearing gloves and masks.
  5. The company has made contingency plans to ensure continuity under any circumstances, including a reserve of manpower. 
  6. Strict measures have been taken to ensure the safety of the daily 1,600 visitors as they are in contact with the Sharjah Community to deliver their services.
  7. No salary cuts or redundancies have been made to ensure stability and security of the employees. 

The organisation has stressed that they need their employees now more than ever. Ensuring their safety and security is being dealt with as a priority.