Lightning storms regularly occur throughout the prairie provinces. According to Environment Canada, each year lightning kills approximately 10 Canadians and injures approximately 100 to 150 others. For the health and safety of our workers, customers and visitors, Beaver Municipal Solutions has established a minimum guideline for dealing with lightning storms.
In the event there is lightning activity, Beaver Municipal Solutions will temporarily cease work at the landfill face and Transfer Station sites. All of our sites adhere to the 30/30 rule. This means when you see lightning, count the time until you hear thunder. If the time is thirty (30) seconds or less, staff and customers need to seek proper shelter. All outdoor work on our sites must be suspended until there has been thirty (30) minutes with no sign of lightning or thunder. This is an organizational policy that staff have been trained to follow.
If you are on our sites and are unable to get to a shelter during a lightning storm, turn off your vehicle, stay inside and refrain from using any electronic devices. Once it has been deemed safe to return to work, you will be advised, however know that Beaver Municipal Solutions staff will continue to use the lightning guidelines and remain on high alert for the return of any lightning and thunder.
Our staff are required to adhere to the rules of our lightning policy. We appreciate your patience, understanding and cooperation when you experience lightning storms during your visit to our site.
Your safety is our priority!
Secure Your Load
It is important to secure your waste when you transport it to either our transfer stations or our landfill site. Failure to do so can cause traffic accidents and roadside litter.
Here are some tips to consider:
· Ensure wastes and containers cannot move or shift during transport or sudden stops. Push and pull restrained wastes to test for movement before transporting.
· When tarps and netting are used, ensure loose items such as wood pieces and plastic cannot escape around the sides or through the gaps in trailer walls.
· Wrap loads of asphalt shingles and drywall with a tarp on top, underneath and surrounding the sides. This contains nails and screws within the load, preventing them from falling off during transport.
· Netting and tie downs are useful for restraining branches.
· Monitor your load while driving.
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Stop the spread. Wash your hands. Stay safe.
