Preparing for outbreaks – Implications for resilient water utility operations and services

Recent outbreaks have constantly disrupted our global economy and public health in numerous ways, impacting efficiency and prosperity across all sectors. This article focuses on the impacts of outbreaks (epidemics and pandemics) on water - wastewater utilities and water infrastructure and critically evaluates the issues underlining their impact on economic development and highlights the need for preparedness. A perspective on water infrastructure and industry-related impact on our society and economic development in the wake of the pandemic, COVID-19, is presented. Methods that could potentially institute safe, reliable, and efficient procedures for better preparedness and rapid recovery have been explored at length. The purpose of this article is therefore threefold: 1) to discuss the economic and public health impact of outbreaks on water and wastewater utilities and utility workforce; 2) to present case studies demonstrating utilities' preparedness and response to COVID-19, and 3) to review various alternatives for education and training as well as innovative processes and strategies for productivity during and after outbreaks. Strategies discussed in this article could be used as valuable tools for developing resiliency efforts, especially from the context of continuing water and wastewater utility operations and services in emergencies.