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Serving the Canadian Ground Water industry for 50 years.
Living Lakes Canada project a case study in international publication
Quebec lagoon project poised to be tops in world
THE SOURCE News and views from the OGWA
The Distinguished Driller Award x 2
Two top drillers to be honoured this year by Mike Jiggens
Reduction in plastic drinking straws indicates ban is working
Staying a cut above health and safety training by CCOHS
ON THE WEB:
Alarming levels of mercury found in Ottawa River watershed, report reveals Watershed is source of drinking water for more than two million people. Ottawa Citizen report
Niverville, Man. residents on well water reject proposal to connect to new water mains
Cost of connection too pricey, they say, adding their well water is free and fine. CBC News report
The ‘Distinguished Driller Award’ x 2
Two top drillers to be honoured this year
by Mike Jiggens
Last year’s inaugural Distinguished Driller Award program proved to be such a success that Ground Water Canada is not only seeking nominations for a second year but plans to honour two individuals in 2024.
Ground Water Canada was pleased to honour Darell Lepper, owner of St. Paul, Alta.-based Lakeland Drilling Ltd., as the award’s first recipient in 2023. Understanding that the industry is rich with qualified drillers – some who have been in the business for decades and others who are newer to the game yet are already making a name for themselves – we thought it best to have two categories for nominees.
We’ve opened nominations for a top driller with less than 10 years of experience and another who meets the necessary criteria with more than 10 years on the job. We felt it important to have two separate categories of drillers so that the “junior” honouree might inspire younger people to enter the industry.
It’s in our best interests to recognize the future of the industry
T he groundwater drilling industry is an aging one, and it’s in our best interests to recognize the future of the industry as well as pay tribute to those who helped build it.
As were the criteria last year, we’re looking for candidates who are tops in their field in industry experience, business acumen, leadership and innovativeness. An online nomination form and a list of the criteria can be found on the Ground Water Canada website at www.groundwatercanada.com.
Nominations will remain open until July 15. The 2024 Distinguished Drillers will be profiled in our Fall issue. We wish to thank Heron Instruments for their sponsorship of the Distinguished Driller Award program for a second consecutive year.
We believe drillers are often underappreciated or barely acknowledged for the important work
they do. In a small way perhaps, the Distinguished Driller Award is an attempt to pay tribute where it’s due.
Darell Lepper will be a hard act to follow. Not only did he build his company into a reputable business, but he served as a mentor to newer drillers making their way into the industry. The individual who nominated him said that everything she has learned about the drilling industry came from Lepper, and she has used his example for the way she is training others.
Ground Water Canada also wishes to encourage readers to take our online training, talent and operations survey. This can also be accessed directly from our home page.
We want your input about how you and your staff operate your business, noting the environmental and economic challenges that can make recruitment, retention and training tricky.
We’d like you to share what, if anything, has been a challenge for you and what the resulting repercussions of those challenges might be.
In addition to data about recruitment, retention and training, other insights we’re seeking pertain to general business information, continuing education and retraining, and a look into the future, including succession planning.
The survey will remain open until the fall, and results from the information we receive will be published later in the year in Ground Water Canada. By filling out the survey, you will be eligible to win one of two $100 gift cards.
Our thanks goes out to Westlake Pipe & Fittings for its sponsorship of the survey.
NEXT ISSUE: The next issue of Ground Water Canada will focus on a proposed landfill project in Chatham-Kent, Ont. that residents fear threatens their groundwater.
SOLINST CANADA SEES RECORD TURNOUT FOR ITS DISTRIBUTOR CONFERENCE
Solinst Canada Ltd.’s recent SDC24 realized a record turnout in Georgetown, Ont.
The Solinst Distributor Conference 2024 was held over three days in May, and included informative presentations and hands-on practical sessions.
The company brought together more than 40 distributors from around the world, including Australia, China, Vietnam, Philippines, Pakistan, South Africa, Poland, Netherlands, Estonia, Czech Republic, Lithuania, France, Brazil, Peru, and Mexico, as well as connections in the United States and Canada
The opening day featured talks on Solinst dataloggers and an introduction to the new Solinst Cloud, a data and device management tool. The company emphasized applications and the questions to ask clients to ensure they get the best instrument for the job.
Level measurement devices were discussed as well as the introduction of a new tool that generated excitement. Attendees also got a first-
hand look at the technology used to produce Solinst Instruments.
The second day featured a talk on Solinst groundwater samplers, practical hands-on sessions aimed to familiarize attendees with the Solinst cloud and LevelSender telemetry integration, Solinst water level meter tips and tricks, and Solinst groundwater samplers in action in the field, including a new bladder design.
Solinst staff and distributors attended a group dinner with entertainment that included a magician who left the audience in awe and a caricature artist who put a smile on everyone’s faces and created memories that can be taken home.
The third day focused on highresolution monitoring and remediation, with a presentation and hands-on look at Solinst multilevel systems and the Waterloo Emitter bioremediation device. Guest speaker Murray Einarson, service leader of contaminated site management at Haley & Aldrich, spoke about multilevel system development and
its use in high-resolution site characterization.
Solinst ended the event with a barbecue lunch. Good weather prevailed, allowing staff and distributors to mingle outside.
Solinst says its distributors are integral to its customer service worldwide.
Solinst Canada Ltd. has been in business for more than 40 years. The company provides clients with groundwater and surface water monitoring instrumentation and offers a broad range of practical equipment used by hydrogeologists and hydrologists around the world. Its product line features: water level dataloggers, telemetry Ssstems, water level meters, interface meters, peristaltic pumps, drivepoints, groundwater samplers, and multilevel groundwater monitoring systems. Solinst’s professional staff includes experienced hydrogeologists and engineers who provide customer service, and leading-edge instruments designed for repeatable accuracy, ease-of-use, and durability.
More than 40 distributors from around the world attended Solinst Canada’s May distributor conference.
PHOTO CREDIT: SOLINST CANADA
VOLUNTEERS BOLSTER 4TH ANNUAL LAKE BLITZ
Lakes are integral to communities, providing essential resources and serving as recreational and cultural hubs. We live along their shores, explore their fresh waters and admire the diverse wildlife. Yet, increasing climate and other impacts highlight the need to monitor and protect these vital ecosystems. This summer, Living Lakes Canada invited volunteers for lake monitoring with the National Lake Blitz.
Those who are interested in deepening their connection to their favourite lake were able to register as a Lake Blitz volunteer, joining hundreds of people across Canada in measuring air and water temperature, and documenting shoreline habitat, wildlife, invasive species and environmental concerns at their chosen lakes between May and September.
“I was starting to think about climate
change and how I needed to take some personal action, and I didn’t really know what to do,” said Teresa Wright, a Lake Blitz volunteer who monitors Kootenay Lake, B.C. “Being a Lake Blitz volunteer made me feel happy to be part of a community that was also taking care of our lakes.”
Each volunteer received a free Lake Blitz Standard Kit containing a thermometer, tape measure, field guide, and datasheets. Living Lakes Canada provided free online training on how to monitor local lakes, from
data collection to data entry. The Lake Blitz Level 2 Kit is available for purchase, allowing enthusiastic volunteers to measure additional parameters including pH and water clarity. Volunteers were also invited to join the Lake Blitz speaker series featuring experts from various waterfocused fields including Ross Reid, a popular online science educator also known as Nerdy About Nature. All the lake data that is collected this year can be viewed on the Lake Blitz Observation Map or downloaded from the Living Lakes Canada Water Hub, an open access database for water and water-related data. The Lake Blitz data is also available from DataStream. Building on last year’s success, where 223 active volunteers monitored 209 lakes, collecting 1,613 data points, the National Lake Blitz is seeking more volunteers across the Prairies, Atlantic Canada and the Territories in 2024.
The Lake Blitz Standard Kit.
POMPCO: A LEGACY OF THREE GENERATIONS AND COUNTING
Nestled in the heart of Quebec, Pompco has been a beacon of innovation and resilience in the water pump industry for nearly five decades. This family-owned business, founded by Bernard Garand in the late 1970s, has weathered the storms of economic downturns, fierce competition, and even internal challenges. Today, it stands proud, looking towards a bright future under the stewardship of its third generation.
Bernard Garand:
The Visionary Founder
Bernard Garand’s journey into the water pump industry was both natural and serendipitous. Growing up on a farm by the lake, Bernard was introduced to the world of pumps by his father, who sold water pumps, milking machines, and other farm equipment. “We were eleven siblings, eight boys, so my dad wanted to find work for all of us,” Bernard reminisces. From a tender age, Bernard accompanied his father on repair and sales trips, developing a profound understanding and passion for water pumps.
The sudden loss of his father when Bernard was just 19 could have derailed many, but it galvanized him. His brother decided to continue the family business, founding Pompes Garand, and Bernard became his partner. By the mid-1960s, Bernard had found his calling, specializing in the sales and installation of water pumps. The company quickly grew, expanding its product line and client base.
In 1977, Bernard and his team took a bold step by developing their own water pump, driven
by a desire to provide better service than the large companies from which they previously sourced their pumps. This move marked the beginning of Pompco. Despite the trials of the 1982 and 1986 recessions, Bernard’s resilience saw the company through. By 1991, he became the sole shareholder, and Pompco continued to thrive under his leadership. In 2007, Pompco moved to a larger facility and doubled its square footage.
Bernard takes immense pride in how the company has now flourished under his son’s leadership, a true testament to the solid foundation he established.
David Garand: Innovating and Expanding Horizons
David Garand, Bernard’s son, followed closely in his father’s footsteps. His earliest memories are of accompanying Bernard on installation jobs. He used to head straight to the plant right after school, a routine that sparked his passion for the family business. Despite a brief teenage rebellion where he considered dropping out of school, David heeded his father’s urging to study engineering. This education, combined with hands-on experience, prepared him well for his future role.
David officially joined Pompco as a partner in 2000, bringing fresh ideas and a new level of expertise. Under his management, the company transitioned to a paperless operation, computerizing processes across machining, production, purchasing, and accounting. “In 2018, I may have been a little naïve, because we didn’t have the level of sales we have today. However, knowing that the new pump series was about to be launched, I decided to double the size of the production facilities,” David recalls. “This was a calculated risk, because the performance tests yielded results beyond our expectations.” To better manage Pompco’s growth, David also took entrepreneurship classes. Despite challenges such as losing a major motor supplier and navigating international competition, David’s strategic thinking and perseverance saw Pompco flourish. After all, it made more economic sense for clients to buy directly from the manufacturer.
In terms of sales, Pompco was able to expand its reach into Western Canada, the U.S. and Ontario, and major investments are already in the works to develop the Ontario market.
David continued to innovate. A game changer was the launch in 2020 of a new submersible pump line four years ago – the FLS (stainless steel) and FLT (thermoplastic) series, as well as the PXP series, a.k.a. gun pump – designed to increase performance and competitiveness and match what the international competition has to offer. The Pompco of today is different under David’s leadership than it was under Bernard’s, as the actors and markets have changed, requiring new strategies and approaches. For example, customized pumps are now available, tailored to the clients’ needs. Today, at 47, David is already contemplating retirement, confident in the future with his sons showing keen interest in the family legacy.
The Next Generation: Marc-Antoine , Olivier and Cédric
The third generation of Garands – Olivier, 23, Cédric, 20, and Marc-Antoine, 17 – are already making their mark at Pompco. From the age of 12, they have been involved in various aspects of the business, from manufacturing and shipping to sales. This hands-on experience, combined with formal education and internships at other companies, has equipped them with a broad perspective and a solid foundation.
Olivier, who studied engineering management, brings a blend of technical and managerial skills. Cédric’s expertise in programming is set to drive Pompco’s digital transformation, while Marc Antoine, who is just starting his college studies in mechanical engineering, represents the fresh blood and future potential of the company. David is strict but supportive, fostering a learning environment where his sons can thrive and innovate, well prepared to take the reins of the company someday.
A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation
Few family businesses survive to see the third generation, but Pompco is not just surviving – it is thriving. The Garand family’s story is one of passion, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence, both in pump manufacturing and service. Bernard’s visionary start, David’s innovative expansion, and the promising future heralded by Olivier, Cédric, and Marc-Antoine, embody the spirit of Pompco.
As Pompco approaches its 50th anniversary, the company stands as a testament to the power of family, hard work, and innovation. This is quite literally a “David and Goliath” story of a family business in a world of multinationals. With a rich history and a bright future, Pompco continues to pump life into the industry and the communities it serves, proving that sometimes, the little family business still stands in the end, because after all, blood is thicker than water. As we keep telling prospective customers, it is better to be a big fish in a small pond than to feel lost in a sea of sharks.
Pompco... remember the name because you will never forget the performance and the service.
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Living Lakes Canada project noted in international pub
Dwindling snowpacks, depleting freshwater sources, and longer and more intense droughts and wildfire seasons are not just headlines; they’re the new reality of our changing climate. As precipitation patterns change, communities and their waterways are at the forefront of experiencing changes locally. Yet within these challenges lies an opportunity for innovative systems change to drive climate-resilient watershed management.
by Living Lakes Canada
In a special issue of the peer-reviewed Water International journal, focused on water governance, Living Lakes Canada’s Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework (CBWMF) was selected as a featured case study. The article details the CBWMF’s pioneering approach, which emphasizes stakeholders’ engagement and prioritizes monitoring based on scientific and
community criteria, as a localized solution for water management challenges. With its proven effectiveness in the Columbia Basin, this leadingedge framework is positioned to serve as a model for similar networks in river basins across the globe.
“In response to rapidly shifting baselines and significant water data gaps, the Columbia Basin
Hydrometric monitoring on Apex Creek in British Columbia.
WATER MANAGEMENT
Water Monitoring Framework is a paradigm-shifting model that is charting a course for adaptive watershed management through a water balance approach to better understand community and ecosystems’ water needs,” Kat Hartwig, executive director of Living Lakes Canada, said. “The Water International publication articulates the need for a collaborative regional problem-solving approach that is supported by both Indigenous knowledge and western science for informed decision making. It demonstrates a template that can be customized for other regions.”
In response to documented data gaps identified in reports produced by the Pacific Climate Impacts Consortium (2006, 2013) and Columbia Basin Trust (2017) Living Lakes launched three pilot areas of the CBWMF in 2022 to collect and track data to understand climate impacts in the glacier-dominated Canadian Columbia Basin. The framework has expanded over the past two years to monitor five hydrologic regions covering
SHARE YOUR GROUNDWATER CONCERNS
IN ONLINE SURVEY
Groundwater is needed in the Columbia Basin for a multitude of reasons. It’s a crucial freshwater source for domestic, agricultural, industrial, and commercial purposes. It’s connected to surface waters and helps maintain water levels in wetlands, streams, rivers, and lakes. It is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, including habitat for fish, waterfowl, and wildlife.
Careful management and allocation of groundwater is becoming increasingly important as populations continue to grow, demand increases, and pressures such as climate change intensify.
However, a lack of understanding of groundwater systems is a problem. This lack of understanding has led to groundwater depletion across the United States, and recent droughts have raised concerns about the sustainability of groundwater supply within the Columbia Basin.
Aquifers are the underground layers of rock or sediment that hold groundwater. Across Canada, aquifers vary in size and complexity. In the mountainous regions of the Columbia Basin, many aquifers are small and fragmented, and respond differently to changing climate conditions, groundwater withdrawals, and
different land uses like logging.
More data is needed to understand how groundwater is responding to these changes to ensure a sustainable supply is available for people and nature. Groundwater data can be used to analyze and forecast water level trends, inform water management decisions, and guide conservation efforts.
Living Lakes Canada, together with groundwater experts, are calling for a Columbia Basin Aquifer Assessment and invite the public to participate in an online survey to share insights and concerns regarding groundwater in their area. The feedback collected will play a crucial role in building momentum behind the request
for an aquifer assessment, ensuring that decision makers have a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing groundwater and the actions needed to address them.
By taking just a few minutes to complete the survey, contributions to the collective effort to safeguard groundwater for generations to come can be made.
To complete the survey, visit https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/ a40328d576474378b9db6ac91affe65f.
Living Lakes Canada acknowledges that its Columbia Basis Groundwater Monitoring Program takes place on the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa, Secwépemc, Syilx, and Sinixt Nations. In carrying out this program, Living Lakes Canada partners with and has frequent dialogue with local First Nations. If anyone is a member or representative of a local First Nation and would like to have an input on this work beyond this survey, they are urged to reach out to Paige Thurston, Columbia Basin program manager, at paige@livinglakescanada.ca. For questions regarding the survey or groundwater monitoring in general, contact paige@livinglakescanada.ca.
Living Lakes Canada’s Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework was recently featured as a case study in an international publication.
WATER MANAGEMENT
12,500 square kilometres, with the longterm goal of filling data gaps in the entire Basin region.
AN IMPORTANT WATER TOWER
An important transboundary watershed, the mountainous Columbia River Basin is considered one of North America’s most important water towers, serving nine million people in two Canadian provinces and six U.S. states. It is also the foundation of the Columbia River Treaty, the water management agreement between Canada and the United States centred on flood control management and power generation on Columbia Basin river systems.
“Since its inception, collaboration has been a core pillar of the success and continued growth of the Framework,” Paige Thurston, Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework program manager,” said. “From community organizations, First Nations and government, to academia, industry and other agencies, partners have helped
increase our collective capacity to plan and implement this model and monitor selected water bodies.”
Water International’s special issue debuted at the World Water Forum in Bali, Indonesia, running from May 18-25. The article is available online as an openaccess publication.
Visit the Living Lakes Canada
homepage at www.livinglakescanada.ca to read the article or visit https://www. tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/025080 60.2024.2321823.
Living Lakes Canada is a national nonprofit organization based in the B.C. Columbia Basin, working towards the long-term protection of freshwater across Canada.
TAPPING INTO GEOTHERMAL HEAT
Quebec lagoon project poised to be tops in world
Auebec company’s ambitious plan to build the world’s largest geothermal and solar-powered lagoon has now expanded to multiple sites. geoLAGOON, which specialize in technology and short-term chalet rentals, plans to begin construction this year at two sites – Charlevoix and in the Laurentian mountains – with the goal of adding two more sites in the near future.
by Matt Jones
“This is the ski resort version of geoLAGOON,” says CEO Louis Massicotte of this 3D mock-up, showing a setup where visitors can ski down the mountain and within a few minutes be luxuriating in the warmth of a geothermal pool.
The project is designed to be largely sustainable and self-sufficient and will feature a rainwater recovery and filtering system which is expected to reduce groundwater consumption by up to 95 per cent. A recent Toronto Star article called the project one of the most “wildly ambitious infrastructure projects in the world.”
Founder and CEO of geoLAGOON, Louis Massicotte, says that he was inspired by Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon and wanted to create something similar in Canada.
“[The Blue Lagoon] is not natural – the heat is provided by a geothermal plant near the lagoon. In Canada, we don’t have volcanic territory,” says Massicotte. “So, I was thinking that I could create something similar, but net-zero with the energy of the sun and the energy of the earth. So, I started working a lot to create a mix of energy, including geothermal and solar. The solar electricity comes from Mitrex building-integrated photovoltaic solar panels in the outdoor walls of every house in the village, so every house is contributing to heat the
lagoon and the lagoon is contributing to heat every house in an infinite model. And we also have biomass.”
Regarding the groundwater usage, Massicotte says that he has long dreamed of developing sustainable systems and often wondered as a child why used water would be sent down the drain, rather than being kept, filtered and reused. Charlevoix receives an average of 4,000 millimetres of rain per year – whatever falls on the site will be collected, cleaned and used for everything except drinking water which will be derived from a private aqueduct network. The chalets will feature high-efficiency showers – not baths – in order to use as little water as possible. An engineer’s report on the project states that it’s possible that the chalets will only use five to 13 per cent of the volume of water that a traditional cottage would use. Or in other words, that a 300-chalet project could use as little water as 15 to 39 traditional cottages.
“And don’t forget that we’re going to
This mock-up developed by geoLAGOON shows what the two villages in the gateway to Charlevoix and in the Laurentians could eventually look like – hundreds of chalets surrounding a lagoon, all powered by a combination of solar, geothermal and biomass energy.
have a very strong filtration system in the village because of the lagoon. We’re going to use the system, for example, during the night to filter and clean the rainwater and we’ll be able to provide for the village all year long. This will include a huge tank to act as a reservoir to keep enough water to pass through the winter.”
SOLAR SNOW MELTING
Massicotte also speaks with great excitement about a solar technique that has been tested for several years to melt and collect snow for water use, which would have the added benefit of clearing off walkways in the village.
“With solar energy, we can melt the water naturally and not use any fossil
GEOTHERMAL
energy,” says Massicotte. “It’s going to give this magic feeling in the village, because you’re going to have snow everywhere except in these paths.”
The expansion of the project into locations such as the Laurentian mountains also brings a new concept to the planning – a ski resort. A recent 3D mock-up from the company shows chalets surrounding a lagoon at the bottom of a ski slope.
“It gives a ski and swim experience within the same 10 minutes,” says Massicotte. “It’s kind of magic, you know, you’re up on the hill and you see the huge spa and you go down the hill thinking, I should use that.”
PROJECT’S SELF-SUFFICIENCY
But he is clearly most excited about the sustainability and self-sufficiency of the project. While the site will be connected to the public energy network and will draw from the grid during construction, the solar/biomass system will generate more energy than the village uses and could be used to provide support to the
surrounding community during peak usage hours.
Massicotte hopes that the project could be a proof of concept to influence residential developments and other businesses to look at self-sufficient and renewable systems.
‘We can melt the water naturally and not use any fossil energy’
“I’ve been in business for 30 years now as an entrepreneur. I decided to try to change things. When you’re in business, you can succeed, you can make money, you can live a very good life. But sincerely, I think at the end, the most important thing is the path you create with your life. With humility, I decided that I would try to make a difference. I think I can
convince a lot of entrepreneurs and big business that you’re going to have a big return on investment with the green philosophy if you do it correctly. In the next years – not next decades, next years –the cost of energy will grow so much that I think every business that’s going to work with renewable energy and self-sufficient systems like mine is going to win.”
Construction is estimated to take 18 months and the target is to open the village for Christmas 2025. The chalets themselves are prefabricated, so construction of that element of the project should progress very quickly. Within the next five years, the hope is to look at setting up such lagoon projects at other ski resorts beyond Quebec. In the meantime, Massicotte says that the company has heard from many interested potential owners and renters.
“I think people are curious when they look at the energy ecosystem,” says Massicotte. “This is out of the box completely. But we’re very proud and we know that we’re going to make it.”
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2024 10:00 AM PT | 1:00 PM ET
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Where has the time gone? I can’t believe it’s already May. Last year was a very busy year for all of us. It seemed 2023 simply vanished, gone almost as soon as it started. This year has felt a bit of a slower start with lots of projects looming but not many starting quickly in the winter months. Now that the good weather has arrived, everyone wants to start with their projects with urgency. It seems perhaps the public assumes our industry can only work in good weather.
DWAYNE GRAFF President
I’d like to personally thank everyone who attended the AGM in Ottawa. Overall, I feel the event was a great success. I was overwhelmed with the number of vendors that showed up from the manufacturers and suppliers. It was great to see so many in attendance, and the venue was organized to accommodate the growing venders. New for many was the hockey night event. It was great to mingle with everyone in the box at the Ottawa Senators game. Seeing an NHL game in a box is always the best way to watch a game in my opinion. Feedback from the AGM attendees was largely very good with some direct comments around the hotel check in process. I wouldn’t say the event was perfect (none really are), but I left for the drive home on Sunday thinking it was a well-organized and successful event. Special thanks to the office staff and other board members who took time to make the event a success.
Switching gears, let’s touch on another one of my favourite topics: pricing. In 2023, it felt like pricing was finally starting to make sense again after a long time, getting closer to numbers that actually worked for profitable operations, and everyone was busy. Fast forward to today, mid-2024, with new housing developments in decline and interest rates going up, it seems several business owners have simply dropped their pants on the pricing front. Costs haven’t gone down and if you think they have, go price a replacement rig, groceries or just about anything else. In today’s marketplace I’d strongly encourage everyone to maintain pricing that yields some profit.
Lastly, I wanted to touch on AI (artificial intelligence) and how it could impact our business. While we all know AI is coming, some businesses and jobs will be impacted much more and sooner than others. Some industries will find enormous change in their work force. We have been having this discussion around our office lately and I have a hard time imagining how AI will drill a well, service a pump or any number of things we do in our unique specialized trade.
For certain things it can answer simple questions and solve some problems in an impressive manner. Other things it simply can’t seem to find the right answer. For example, we asked it to create a job posting for a Well Technician and AI provided the following:
Water Well Technician
Location: Ontario, Canada
JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Water Well Technician to join our team. As a Water Well Technician, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety, functionality, and reliability of water wells across Ontario. Your expertise will contribute to clean water supply for communities, industries, and agricultural operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Well Construction and Maintenance:
o Construct new wells using appropriate drilling or digging equipment.
o Repair and rehabilitate existing wells to meet safety standards.
o Perform routine maintenance on water well drilling rigs and related machinery.
BOYD PENDLETON Lotowater Technical Services Inc. 519-442-2086
RICK PETTIT Rideau Supply 800-463-7648
KYLE SMITH
Aardvark Drilling Inc. 613-296-8779
MIKE STEFFEN
Steffen Well Drilling 519-357-1960 / 519-531-0355
JASON TESSIER Mel’s Well Drilling 807-486-1333
BRYAN WATSON
G. Hart & Sons Well Drilling Ltd. 705-887-3331
MATTHEW D. WILSON
J.B. Wilson & Son Well Drilling ltd. 519-269-3364
water well pumps.
o Conduct pumping tests to assess well performance.
• Water Quality Monitoring:
o Install monitoring and testing equipment in wells.
o Perform water quality tests to ensure suitability for consumption.
Licensing and Compliance:
o Obtain and maintain a valid well technician license (Class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5).
o Stay informed about changes in regulations related to well construction and maintenance.
• Education and Experience:
o Complete an approved course and pass the licensing exam.
o Accumulate relevant work experience in well construction or pump installation.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Valid Water Well Technician License (Class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5).
Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety. Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Physical fitness for outdoor work in various weather conditions.
BENEFITS:
Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional growth and development. Meaningful work that contributes to community well-being. If you are passionate about water resource management and have the necessary qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and make a difference in Ontario’s
water supply!
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We look forward to hearing from you!
So pretty good job AI on the job description. We then asked it to provide a diagram of a well compliant with Reg. 903 in Ontario and AI provided the accompanying image (Fig 1). In closing, it seems AI still has a lot to learn about our trade and we are safe for a while in terms of job security. Keep this in mind while you’re working, and especially when explaining to customers why our services are priced the way they are to ensure quality results. Your skill set holds significant value, and mastering those skills takes time. Make sure you charge accordingly for your specialized skills. Until next time, keep busy, be profitable and most of all, be safe. Have a good summer season!
GRAFF, President
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
DONATIONS TO SILENT AUCTION RAISES $6,400 FOR OGWA
The Ontario Ground Water Association wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for our members’ incredible support.
The groundwater industry plays a vital role in providing essential resources for agriculture, industry, and communities worldwide. It’s a dynamic sector constantly evolving with new technologies and methodologies. We value what you do every day. Beyond the financial support, your passion for the industry is truly inspiring.
We’d like to acknowledge all those who donated items at the 2024 Convention. Every small and big contribution makes a difference. There were over 50 items at the auction and we were able to raise $6,400! We offer all donors our deepest gratitude.
Thank you for being a driving force behind our mission: To provide professional, technical, and educational leadership in the advancement of the groundwater industry and in the promotion, protection and responsible use of groundwater resources.
DWAYNE
HEALTH & SAFETY REPORT
Hello OGWA members!
I trust that all is well with you. I have a couple of updates for you!
1) There are lots of changes coming down the pipe to the Employment Standards Act and the Occupational Health & Safety Act.
Some proposed changes in Bill 190, Working for Workers Five Act, 2024 include:
New requirements for job posting advertised jobs – will need to indicate if job for an existing vacancy
A ‘Duty to Inform’ applicants of ‘prescribed information’, yet to be determined
No asking for sick notes for sick leave from a qualified medical practitioner
Increase in fines under the ESA for an individual Remote JHSC meetings – I’ve been doing this since COVID-19 reared its ugly mug
• Washroom facilities on job sites are maintained in a clean and sanitary condition- proof? Set up a small record
• When 20+ workers are on a job site and that job is expected to run for 3+ months, menstrual products must be provided – this has already passed
2) Reminder that you have 3 business days to submit the Form 7
3) If need any WSIB Form 82s (The In Case of Injury Poster) in other languages, please let me know. There is a requirement to have this posted in the workplace!
4) The WSIB continues to offer the incentive of DOUBLE Rebates and $1,000 to sign up to the WSIB H & S Excellence program for businesses under 100 on payroll until December 31, 2024
If you have any questions on any of this, please just give me a call at 905-741-5001 or email me at info@safetyworksconsulting.com
ELLALINE (ELLA) DAVIES
President, Safety Works Consulting Inc.
EXCITING NEWS FROM THE OGWA OFFICE
Staff at the office have been hard at work tackling a number of projects for the OGWA. We’ve done a spring clean of our membership management software and our website, reviewing our services and ensuring that any problem areas are identified to be dealt with. We have also committed to a full website redesign to modernize and ensure that the website is easy to use and navigate. This new website will not compromise on any of the services we currently offer our members, and instead make sure that we’re presenting you with the best experience possible. As a matter of procedure, the office is also reviewing our email hosting and web security needs. Social media will be returning in force for the summer, with the office team collaborating on new posts to highlight news and events that matter to our membership.
In the wake of a very successful AGM, the office is already looking ahead and planning for next year – searching for venues that will
best serve our members, finding potential presenters, and creating brand new material for 2025. We’re very excited to unveil our new venue and all of the amenities that come with it, and hope that you’ll enjoy it as much as we do. We’re also working away at the 2024 Membership Directory and actively collaborating with other organizations in the industry.
With this beautiful weather, all of our minds are on the sunshine and our upcoming Scholarship Golf Tournament on September 6th – it’s still a ways out, so there’s plenty of time to break out your clubs and practice your swing in time for the tournament! The office has been working on confirming our logistics and preparing all necessary materials for the event. Mark your calendars and come on out to help support the next generation of our industry!
We’re very excited to reveal our upcoming CEC courses, now entering development with members of the OGWA. We want
to make sure that your voices are heard and reflected in the type and length of courses available, and so we’re happy to report that the office will be diligently working to make sure we can launch these courses as soon as possible. The topics of the courses currently under development are: MTO Regulations and Operating Commercial Vehicles in Ontario, Understanding Hydrogeology, Drilling Fluids, and Pump Curves: What They Tell You and How to Use Them. These topics do not reflect the final course titles, but instead the broader topics that will be covered in these courses – keep your eyes peeled for further updates as we progress in this very exciting project. Hand in hand with our CEC developments are the strides the office has been making in reviewing our in-person CEC venues, as well as the expanded potential for virtual sessions. We’re thrilled with what we’re working on, and can’t wait to share it with you in time.
FLEMING COLLEGE CLOSES 24 PROGRAMS: A SHIFT IN EDUCATIONAL STRATEGY
In a significant move, Fleming College announced that it closed 24 programs this past April, aiming to streamline offerings amidst the evolving industry demands and financial considerations. This strategic decision manoeuvres aligning educational offerings with emerging job markets and optimizing resources for long-term sustainability. This decision undoubtedly has implications not only for the institution itself but also for its students and the broader community it serves.
While this move presents challenges, it also opens opportunities for the institution to focus on high-demand programs and research initiatives. Despite the closures, there’s an exemption: the Drilling program. Its continuation emphasizes the crucial role of meeting
industry demands and delivering specialized training in vital sectors.
For students affected by the closures, the college pledges support and assistance, including academic advising and alternative pathways. Efforts are underway to minimize disruption for prospective students, exploring options such as partnerships or the development of new programs in related fields.
Fleming College’s restructuring reflects a proactive stance in navigating the evolving educational landscape in Ontario. It highlights the institution’s commitment to adaptability, student success, and excellence in higher education. As it charts this new course, Fleming College remains dedicated to meeting the needs of students, industries, and society, while ensuring resilience and innovation for the future.
OGWA will continue to support and partner with Fleming. Our annual OGWA Student Scholarship Golf Tournament directly funds three Awards for Fleming students:
1. The Archie Watt Student Award - Presented to a deserving student who has shown commitment and proficiencies towards the water well industry.
2. Ralph Snider Memorial Award - Presented to the most improved Resources Drilling & Blasting student in the second semester, who has demonstrated all-round proficiency and enthusiasm.
3. OGWA Award - Presented to a graduating student in the Resources Drilling Technician Program with the highest mark in the Well Construction course.
Come out and support our eighth Tournament this year at Conestoga Golf Course, Friday September 6th, 2024. Check our Events Page for more details coming soon!
”We’re about to start looking for donations for our 2024 Golf Scholarship Raffle! If you have an item you’d like to donate, send us an email at admin@ogwa.ca to have your logo and your donation promoted before the Tournament!”
CHILDREN’S WATER FESTIVALS
Every year, several communities around Ontario celebrate with a Children’s Water Festival. It is a multi-day Festival for students in Grades 2 to 5 with the focus on education and the importance of water in their daily lives. From hands-on experiments to engaging presentations, attendees discover the wonders of water while learning practical ways to protect this precious resource for future generations.
This year, members of OGWA actively engaged in both the St. Thomas and Waterloo Children’s Water Festivals, playing a pivotal role in showcasing the significance of groundwater to the next generation.
Johnny Wilson of Wilson Well Drilling at the St. Thomas Children’s Water Festival.
PONTIL DRILLING – U OF T DRILLING DAY
Since 2018, Pontil Drilling and the University of Toronto have been teaming up to demonstrate the practical aspect of the things that the students will be experiencing out in the field after they graduate.
Pontil Drilling demonstrates the basics of soil sampling and installs a monitoring well. Drilling at the Miller Lash House on the U of T Scarborough campus is a perfect area for students to see split spoon sampling and the use of hollow stem augers. The geology in the area consists of flowing sands as it is right near a river. These conditions can create problems while drilling given that the sands can flow up into the augers. As seen in the pictures, Pontil Drilling encountered just that. The drillers were able to showcase just how we can counteract these conditions to achieve a perfect well installation. This included over-drilling, the process in which augers are drilled down further than the determined well depth; and sending a tremie line down the centre of the augers to pump water into the hole to counteract the hydrostatic pressure of the ever-rising flowing sands.
The collaboration of Pontil Drilling and the University of Toronto is vital in the industry and for the students. It can bridge the gap between education and practicality as so many students at other
universities do not see a drill rig until they already have a job and are thrown into field work. As fantastic as it is for the students, it is also beneficial for us and other drilling companies as we can help mould the minds of these young geoscientists and engineers, it brings a new enjoyment to the job.
Pontil Drilling is proud to be a part of this educational program and is looking forward to continuing this journey for a long time to come.
‘DAYLIGHTING
RIVERS: BRINGING URBAN WATERWAYS BACK TO LIFE’
The Discover the magic of bringing rivers back to light in this CBC special feature. Follow along as communities breathe new life into urban waterways, showing how it helps recharge groundwater. From Toronto’s Don River to
Vancouver’s False Creek, see how uncovering rivers benefits both city life and our underground water sources. Join the journey of renewal and sustainability in this eye-opening look at how we’re taking care of our environment.
CELEBRATING 72 YEARS
WHO WE ARE
Ontario Ground Water Association was created in 1952 as a not-for-profit organization to facilitate the various sectors of the groundwater industry coming together for the delivery of safe and clean water supplies throughout the Province.
WHAT WE DO
The OGWA facilitates various sectors of the groundwater industry coming together for delivery of safe, clean water supplies throughout the province Our Mission is to provide professional, technical, and educational leadership in the advancement of the groundwater industry and in the promotion, protection and responsible use of groundwater resources.
OUR MEMBERS
The Ontario Ground Water Association has over 250 valued members consisting of professionals who are involved in the groundwater industry in Ontario. These include Well Drillers, Environmental/Geotechnical Drillers, Pump Installers, Manufacturers and Suppliers, as well as Scientists and Engineers company owners and their employees
OUR BOARD
OGWA is governed by a volunteer board of directors that has representatives from all sectors of the industry. The Board and Staff work closely together on strategic activities to benefit the members of the organization, and the groundwater community.
New Bylaws have been approved at the AGM, Committee structures have been finalized, and staff vacancies have been filled
LOOKING AHEAD OUR BENEFITS
There are still action items in our strategic plans that include self governance and licensing, more education for municipalities and better connections with the MECP and Municipal Planners. We will be working more closely with our partners and affiliated organizations to provide expertise and guidance within the groundwater industry
OGWA continues to provide its members with benefits such as, CFIB, CAA, NGWA membership, Car discounts, Insurance and more!
Though we said goodbye to our Well Wise program, we continue to help the public with their well water testing by directing them to reliable partners so homeowners can continue to make informed decisions about the safety of their drinking water
Continuing Education Courses are now in development, and OGWA is working directly with industry professionals to create four new CEC courses regarding MTO Regulations, Drilling Fluids, Hydrogeology, and Pump Curves.
OGWA will continue to support Fleming College with scholarships and partner on outreach opportunities to promote young people to become interested and invested in the groundwater industry.
2024 INDUSTRY SURVEY
TRAINING, TALENT AND OPERATIONS
in Groundwater Drilling
Ground Water Canada is undertaking an indepth industry survey on the topic of training, talent and operations in the groundwater drilling industry.
This will be the foundation of a blueprint report for drillers and pump installers in Canada to better understand the state of the industry and facilitate effective training, operations and best practices. The data will be compiled and analyzed, then packaged into a top-line results report shared with Ground Water Canada's audience.
TAKE SURVEY
PLASTIC WASTE
CLEANING UP OCEAN’S SHORES
Reduction in plastic drinking straws indicates ban is working
Ocean Wise, a global conservation organization headquartered in Vancouver, has released its annual Shoreline Cleanup Impact Report which will be shared with governments, researchers and the public.
by Ground Water Canada staff
Included in the report is the 2023 “Dirty Dozen” list, which sheds light on the 12 most found items on Canadian shorelines in 2023. Drawn from citizen science collected from more than 35,000 Ocean Wise Shoreline Cleanup volunteers across the country, the list shows trends in the prevalence and types of litter in the environment and, ultimately, the ocean.
This year, for the first time in a decade, the Dirty Dozen list will not include plastic drinking straws. This change may be due to several factors and cannot confirm a reduction in the total number of straws in the environment year over year. However, it is an indicator that efforts like Canada’s single-use plastics ban have a direct impact on Canadian shorelines and ocean.
“Seeing straws drop off the Dirty Dozen list came as a really positive surprise,” Lasse Gustavsson, CEO of Ocean Wise, said. “While we can’t say for certain that this means the plastic ban worked, it certainly indicates that it had an impact. Straws, which were the first plastic item banned, have shown the biggest change year over year. I like to believe this is more than coincidence.”
Ocean Wise experts are preparing data analysis that will report on effort-corrected trends in shoreline litter for its 2025 edition of the Dirty Dozen. This work aims to use the data collected by the one million-plus volunteers who have joined Ocean Wise Shoreline Cleanups to model the absolute quantity of various litter items.
ELIMINATING PLASTIC WASTE
“The world is taking action to eliminate plastic
waste, as we saw at the latest plastics negotiations round in Ottawa, and Canada is among the leaders,” Steven Guilbeault, minister of Environment and Climate Change, said. “Canada’s ban on certain single-use plastics, coupled with efforts by all orders of government, has already started to help businesses and individuals move to sustainable alternatives, such as reusable items. There is a long way to go, but initiatives such as the Ocean Wise Shoreline Cleanup that positively engage and mobilize Canadians, are starting to see some encouraging signs. This cleanup program helps us better understand what items are littering our shorelines, and this kind of data contributes to smart policymaking toward creating a zero plasticwaste future.”
Another highlight from this year’s Dirty Dozen list is cigarette butts, which take the top spot yet
Plastic drinking straws littering Canadian shorelines are no longer among the “Dirty Dozen” list, demonstrating that Canada’s single-use plastics ban may be working.
PHOTO CREDIT: MARABELO/ADOBE STOCK
again. Cigarette butts continue to dominate shoreline litter, accounting for a significant one-third of the litter collected during Ocean Wise Shoreline Cleanups nationwide last year. Ocean Wise is working to address cigarette butt litter through working with collaborators like Buttwatch, a community-based project started by a participant in one of the Ocean Wise Youth programs, Ocean Bridge.
The 2023 Dirty Dozen will serve as a crucial benchmark to assess the impact on Canadian shores in the years ahead, as well as a reference for trends associated with the single-use plastics ban and the pandemic.
Cigarette butts continue to dominate shoreline litter, accounting for onethird of litter
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Ocean Wise’s Shoreline Cleanup program. Since 1994, Ocean Wise has actively engaged more than 1,000,000 volunteers in their local communities through its Shoreline Cleanup program, presented by Loblaw Companies Limited. It remains Canada’s largest direct-action initiative for protecting Canadian precious marine ecosystems.
Ocean Wise is a globally focused conservation organization on a mission to restore and protect the ocean. Through research, education, public engagement, and international collaborations, it empowers communities to fight three major ocean challenges: ocean pollution, overfishing and climate change. By equipping and empowering individuals, communities, industries, and governments, Ocean Wise aims to create a future where people and oceans can thrive. Ocean Wise is headquartered in Vancouver with staff across Canada and Chile and operates conservation projects that make national and international impact. Learn more at ocean.org.
WATER FORUM
WATER CHALLENGES
UNESCO World Water Forum addresses ‘water for shared prosperity’
by Ground Water
Canada
staff
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) promoted international co-operation and innovative solutions aimed at tackling global water challenges at the 10th World Water Forum, held in May in Bali, Indonesia.
The forum, bearing the theme “Water for Shared Prosperity,” brought together policymakers, scientists and stakeholders from around the world for a joint global commitment to water availability and water co-operation.
Emphasized this year were the critical links between water management and climate disruption in which solutions for enhanced co-operation and better data collection to steer the world toward water security and resilience were highlighted.
UNESCO championed three core objectives: enhancing co-operation on water, improving knowledge and data collection, and increasing education and awareness on water-related issues.
“As we face increasing water scarcity and climate variability, it’s important that we increase international co-operation to sustainably measure and manage water resources together and train and empower a new generation of water professionals,” Audrey Azoulay, director-general of UNESCO, said.
From rivers and lakes to transboundary aquifers, states urgently need to collaborate and co-operate in managing the shared water resources that flow freely across their national borders.
The first step often lies in identifying shared water sources. As the leading organization for monitoring transboundary aquifers, UNESCO has helped to identify transboundary systems across 153 countries, including 468 aquifers and 286 rivers and lakes.
UNESCO’s decades-long Governance of Groundwater Resources in Transboundary Aquifers
project (GGRETA) has provided assessment, governance and policy aspects of transboundary aquifers across three continents in addition to other localized programs in West Africa, the Mediterranean, the Balkans and South America.
A shared water framework can be a major catalyst for collective development, however, only a minority of riparian countries have transboundary agreements in place. A best practice case lies in the Senegal River Basin where the Manantali Dam, while physically located in Mali, is collectively owned and managed by Senegal River Development Authority which contributes to the energy sector of the countries of the basin (Guinea, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal), producing electricity at lower cost and from a clean source.
NEED FOR TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES
Since the 1980s, data collection on water has worsened and there is an urgent need to harness technological advances to improve it.
UNESCO plays a vital role in harmonizing and making water data and knowledge available through its Water Information Network System, a database of global and local water information, which allows stakeholders to make informed decisions. Complementary to this, UNESCO’s Open Learning Platform helps users develop skills they need to turn this raw data into actionable insights.
As water and climate are intrinsically and increasingly linked, UNESCO has developed the Climate Risk Informed Decision Analysis (CRIDA) methodology to manage water resources in water-stressed areas by using a participatory, bottom-up approach that efficiently identifies hydro-climate vulnerabilities. Flood and drought early warning systems have been implemented in Africa.
In addition to data coming from advanced technologies such as satellite surveillance, UNESCO calls for governments to invest more in training local communities to provide groundtruth data to complement, confirm and calibrate these measurements.
Systematic inefficiencies must also be addressed. It is estimated that today five to 50 per cent of water never reaches its destination due to leaky pipes and faulty systems. Improving the identification and resolution of these leaks represents a major opportunity to reduce water scarcity worldwide.
INCREASING AWARENESS
Training a new generation of water professionals who can advise governments to implement water policies that consider economic, social, political, health and agricultural impacts will be key to combat water scarcity in the future.
Each year, UNESCO and its partners trains about 20,000 people through a network of 29 Category 2 research centres, 84 UNESCO university chairs and national committees. This network improves and reinforces the knowledge exchange between countries and provides course, training and activities on specific water issues.
UNESCO also works to increase water education for the general public, and especially children and youth. UNESCO’s awareness campaigns, including through the Global Network of Water Museums comprised of 80 institutions across 38 countries educate 10 million visitors per year on topics ranging from water science to water usage in daily life.
UNESCO also calls for a more inclusive approach to addressing water issues: ancestral knowledge and know-how related to water hold many solutions for sustainably managing this resource. UNESCO’s Links program is working to support Indigenous peoples in sharing their approaches and methods of water management, governance and rights issues.
With 194 member states, UNESCO contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral co-operation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs more than 2,300 people. It oversees more than 2,000 world heritage sites, biosphere reserves and global geoparks as well as networks of creative, learning, inclusive and sustainable cities and more than 13,000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions.
COPING WITH STRESS, BURNOUT
If there’s light at the end of the tunnel, it’s stress; if you’re stuck in the dark, it’s burnout
When you started your business, you probably didn’t picture yourself exhausted, overwhelmed, and thinking about throwing in the towel.
by Ground Water Canada staff
Being exhausted, overwhelmed and stressed out are things most business heads find themselves experiencing at least once in their careers.
Nevertheless, nearly all entrepreneurs find themselves in this situation at least once (and often multiple times) during their careers.
No wonder, says small business fixer Julie Bee –the “burnout deck” is stacked against us.
“As a business owner, you’re financially responsible for a lot of people, your reputation is constantly on the line, and you’re often figuring out next steps (or as the case may be, frantically putting out fires) on the fly,” says Bee, author of Burned: How Business Owners Can Overcome
Burnout and Fuel Success. “Plus, it’s lonely at the top. You may not have a trusted peer or mentor to ask for advice, empathy, or help.”
The result is that most entrepreneurs tend to ignore, minimize, and hide their own struggles and stress as they prioritize the business, their employees, and their customers. They believe that if they put their heads down and just keep grinding, things will eventually get better.
“Many don’t realize how badly they need help, and even those who do often resist seeking it out,”
Bee says. “Admitting we’re not OK can feel terrifying.
May was Mental Health Awareness Month, making it an ideal time to start changing the narrative that business owner burnout is something to be ashamed of – or even something that’s fully within our control.
Bee speaks from experience. Several years ago, she went to the ER for what she thought was a heart attack, but it turned out to be a panic attack brought on by business owner burnout.
“In hindsight, this shouldn’t have been a surprise,” she says. “I had way too much on my plate, and I had been ignoring the many signs that I was exceeding my bandwidth. I thought I didn’t have time to be stressed, and not addressing it took a serious toll.”
In Burned, Bee acknowledges that periodic stress, struggle, and even burnout are givens when owning a business. Her book provides tactical advice on how to make space for addressing burnout, fix any problems
it has caused, and leverage its lessons while running a company and placing guardrails around one’s mental health. Here, she shares 10 things needed to know when (not if) business owner
‘There are usually red flags that idicate you’re headed toward burnout’
burnout looms on the horizon.
If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, it’s stress. If you’re stuck in the dark, it’s burnout. How can a spreadthin entrepreneur distinguish stress from burnout? While stress can feel acute, it’s temporary. There’s often a deadline to look forward to: turning in a proposal, hiring a new employee to fill a vacancy,
meeting a deadline, etc.
“With burnout, you have little or no energy left to move forward,” Bee says. “The passion you once felt for your business has turned to dread. When faced with a challenge, you may feel stuck or just plain indifferent. Instead of fulfilling you, your responsibilities feel like a burden –and you can’t see an end in sight to being in this state.”
Know your red flags: You’re sleepdeprived, snappy, and buying stock in dry shampoo. “Most of us don’t go from fine to running on fumes overnight,” Bee says. “There are usually red flags that indicate you’re headed toward burnout: actions, habits, or behaviors that indicate you’re off-balance, stressed, and working unsustainably.” For instance:
• You’re having trouble sleeping (or you’re sleeping too much).
• Your interactions with others have become more contentious.
• You’ve started to socially withdraw from friends and family.
• You’re finding it difficult to focus,
make decisions, and/or come up with new ideas.
• Your self-care (e.g., grooming, nutrition, exercise, etc.) has slipped.
• You’re leaning harder into a coping mechanism (e.g., alcohol, medication, etc.).
• You’re clinging to the belief that if you can “just get through” a particular deadline or challenge, everything will magically get better.</bu>
Be alert for trigger warnings: Scour your schedule for stressors. Triggers differ from red flags because they are external to you. They tend to be other people, places, or situations that cause you immediate stress, and can thus hasten burnout. The more you’re exposed to (or even think about) your triggers, the more your dread, anxiety, and overwhelm ratchet up. If you’re already noticing burnout red flags, avoid your triggers when possible!
“Burnout triggers are often seemingly small things like hearing the phone ring or seeing a difficult client’s name appear in your inbox,” Bee explains. “They don’t even have to be work-related: A spouse’s bad mood or the sight of your overgrown lawn can also cause your stress to spike. It’s important to identify burnout triggers so you can eliminate, limit, or deal with them.”
Master your new mantra: “NO!” (for now). If you’re close to (or in the throes of) burnout, you must make space to deal with it. Bee’s top tip is to temporarily say no to new. Just for a while, stop chasing new opportunities, developing new ideas, and forging new partnerships. Put your time, energy, and thought into strengthening your business (not expanding it) and alleviating your stress.
“Think of this as saying ‘no for now’ –not necessarily ‘no forever,’” Bee advises. “Maybe you do have a fantastic idea that is right in your business’ sweet spot – but first you have to make space to properly develop and execute it. Sometimes the best way to speed up is to slow down.”
Spa days, beach trips, and downward dogs are great, but they probably won’t stop burnout. Many burned-out business owners are trying to boost their well-being. They take vacations. They’ve hired a lawnmaintenance service. They exercise, repeat affirmations, and attempt to eat well when they can.
“These things are helpful, but they aren’t enough because they don’t address the source of the problem,” Bee says. “For instance, if you take a vacation, are you able to totally disconnect from your business and block out your worries? Probably not. Do you feel guilty about being away? Most likely. Even if you do gain some measure of rejuvenation while lying on a beach, it will quickly become depleted because the same stressors will be waiting when you return to work.”
Run the “why” test to pinpoint what’s causing your symptoms. First, think of something that’s causing you stress (your burnout triggers are a good place to start) and list three thoughts or feelings you have about that stressor. Now ask “why” – three times – about each thought or feeling and answer as honestly as you can. Here’s an example with the feeling “frustrated:”
• Why am I frustrated? Because I have zero enjoyment in my business.
• Why do I have zero enjoyment at work? I’m always putting out fires and
‘When you’re in a state of burnout, it’s hard to see things clearly and objectively’
never get to the important work.
• Why am I always putting out fires?
Because someone has to do it (aha!) and, if I’m honest, I don’t manage my time well (aha, again!). I prioritize putting out fires over doing important work, because in the moment, they feel more urgent.
“As you apply this exercise to various stressors and your thoughts and feelings about them, you’ll probably see a few themes pop up,” Bee says. “Maybe you feel like you must solve all problems yourself, or maybe you lack firm boundaries. These themes are probably
major causes of your burnout.”
Now that you’ve diagnosed your burnout, treat it! In the “frustration” example above, you might carve out more time for important work by determining which of your daily tasks you can eliminate, delegate, or save until later. (Sounds simple, but when’s the last time you actually did this?) If an employee’s resignation tipped you over the edge from “stress” to “burnout,” you need to create a plan for covering the employee’s responsibilities until a replacement is hired.
“Don’t do this alone,” Bee urges. “You need a team to support and advise you: key employees, business partners, loved ones…even a therapist. When you’re in a state of burnout, it’s hard to see things clearly and objectively. Outsiders may see something you haven’t noticed, and they can also get close to the source of the issue without succumbing to stress like you might.”
Then, focus on your personal recovery. Being burned out means that you’ve been depleted faster than you
could replenish. Now that you’re on the other side of the urgent fire, you can focus on the personal toll it has taken. To start, Bee recommends identifying an action or activity that will comfort and replenish you that can be accomplished in the next 30 days. For example, you might go on a hike, book an appointment with your therapist, or splurge on a weighted blanket to help you sleep more soundly.
“Yes, I said earlier that this type of self-care won’t cure your burnout, and that’s still true” Bee says. “But you need to capture a few quick wins so you’ll have the attitude and energy to make bigger, more impactful changes that will help you prevent (or at least mitigate) future burnout.”
Put a prevention plan in place… Create thoughtful guardrails designed to keep you from traveling too far into your red-flag danger zone. One anti-burnout strategy Bee recommends is to define your ideal workweek.
“For instance, on what days of the week will you work and at what times?” she asks. “When will you work on big-picture, visionary tasks? When will you invest time with your staff? When will you do tasks you do not enjoy? How often will you network? How will you handle personal calls, texts, etc. while you’re working? Answering questions like these can help you set boundaries, prioritize effectively, work efficiently, and communicate clearly – all of which will give you more bandwidth to deal with stress and setbacks.
“I also recommend defining your personal life in a similar way,” Bee adds. “A good work-life harmony doesn’t just happen. You have to think about how you want to show up and what you want to accomplish outside of work.”
…But make peace with the fact that burnout is like a bad penny (albeit one you can still spend wisely). As Bee has stated, burnout often isn’t a one-and-done event – you’ll probably encounter it several times throughout your career. Circumstances can appear out of nowhere that will take a wrecking ball to even the best-laid prevention plan. But not all burnout has to fully deplete you, set your business back, or impact your health.
“Nearly every entrepreneur I know who has gone through burnout has taken away something valuable,” Bee says. “Sometimes it’s a lesson or an idea; sometimes it’s a full-on breakthrough or reinvention. My best advice for embracing burnout is to adopt the classic improv rule of ‘Yes, and…’ Own and name your circumstances (that’s the ‘yes’ part). Then figure out how to make the most of it…or at least move on from it (that’s the ‘and’ part). For instance, ‘Yes, I experienced this crisis…and I’m going to do XYZ to protect my business/diversify my options/explore new possibilities going forward.’”
“Remember that experiencing a setback – even one as allconsuming as burnout – sets you up to make a comeback,” Bee says. “Leverage the lessons burnout has taught you to improve your routine, set better boundaries, pursue a new idea, and/or approach future challenges with more self-awareness and resilience. With the right tools, it’s not just possible, but probable, that burnout will light the best kind of fire in you… instead of charring you to a crisp.”
NEW PRODUCTS
PUMPS FOR WASTEWATER APPLICATIONS
CIRCOR International, Inc., a manufacturer and marketer of differentiated technology products and sub-systems, recently showcased Allweiler’s latest pump solutions tailored for the wastewater industry, with a
special focus on sludge treatment. Allweiler’s Progressing Cavity Pumps are engineered to address the exacting needs of wastewater applications, such as sludge treatment, sewage transport or the addition of flocculant for sludge.
“At Allweiler, we are dedicated to developing pump solutions that not only meet the needs of our customers but also contribute to a more sustainable future,” said Marc Foginski, business development manager Wastewater EMEA at Allweiler.
Allweiler has also introduced other prod-
ucts, including the AEB-DE Dosing Pump, offering high-precision metering technology for demanding applications, ensuring optimal efficiency and accuracy, ALLDUR Stators, engineered for exceptional durability and performance, reflecting Allweiler’s dedication to providing long-lasting and sustainable solutions, and OPTIFIX, providing reliable pump performance without compromising efficiency, while offering quick and easy serviceability.
https://pumps.circor.com/event/ifat2024.
Staying a cut above health & safety training
by CCOHS M
uch like a drilling company that requires its employees to thrive, so, too, does your health and safety training program. In fact, it’s important to regularly evaluate your program to make sure the training you provide workers is effective at preventing incidents, injuries, illnesses, and diseases, and is updated when needed.
There are different types of training that can help build a culture of safety in your workplace. Orientation training for your new hires, for example, provides the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely, including the safe use of tools, machinery, and equipment. It should also cover their rights and responsibilities, how to report injuries or concerns, and how to wear and store personal protective equipment.
New and seasoned workers should also receive Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training if they work with hazardous products. This training should cover safe working practices, including checking safety data sheets before handling any hazardous substances and knowing how to respond to an emergency.
Refresher training can help workers stay updated on safety procedures and teach them how to use new equipment or perform new tasks safely.
Informal “crew talks” before a shift starts are brief but important touchpoints to communicate vital health and safety information to your workers, while also fielding their questions and concerns.
GETTING STARTED ON YOUR TRAINING PROGRAM
Whether you’re setting up your first health and safety training program or revising an existing one, you need to know the hazards your workers face to ensure it’s effective.
Working with tools and machinery and handling chemicals are among the more obvious workplace hazards. But overexertion and repetitive strain from jobsite work, including working in a confined space, and slips, trips, and falls from uneven or slippery grounds, are also risks to consider.
Conducting risk assessments can help you identify
the unique hazards workers may encounter while performing routine work, as well as during nonroutine circumstances like an extreme weather event.
Inspect the jobsite and look for potential hazards, talk about risk factors with your workers, and review health and safety records to find issues that need to be addressed. A thorough review of the level of risk associated with each hazard can help to inform the elements of your health and safety training program.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
Check the legislation in your province or territory for the health and safety training requirements in your specific industry. The requirements may vary, but many provinces, territories, and federal jurisdictions require worker training for emergency procedures, such as fire prevention, evacuation, and first aid protocols.
Beyond this, many jurisdictions also require workers to receive training on how to recognize and respond to violence and harassment. Some also mandate ergonomic training for workers who are at risk of musculoskeletal injuries. This can include providing instruction on safe work procedures, like how to lift properly, and how to use mechanical lifting aids that can help prevent physical strain such as back injuries.
Knowing your local legislation will not only help ensure you are following the laws in your area to protect the health and safety of workers but can also help you set a baseline for training that you can expand upon in your workplace.
ENGAGING YOUR WORKERS
The goal of health and safety training is for workers to understand the nature of the hazards in their workplace, and to learn and retain information about how to work safely.
You can engage your workers by involving them in the development and implementation of health and safety training.
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) promotes the total well-being of workers in Canada. www.ccohs.ca
