COVID-19 Updates Features Business
Loss of work top COVID-19 concern for ground water industry: survey

Simcoe, Ont. – Preliminary results of our Ground Water Professionals industry survey suggest the COVID-19 pandemic has had a relatively low impact on the industry’s work.

The survey, sponsored by the Canadian National Ground Water Association and the Ontario Ground Water Association, asked, “What type of impact do you expect COVID-19 to have on your work?”

About 60 per cent of participants said they have experienced a loss of work or revenue.

Reduced productivity due to social distancing was a major issue, with 42 per cent experiencing negative effects.

Staffing also was a problem. About 27 per cent experienced staffing cuts or layoffs. Staff retention (15 per cent) and staff being available and willing to be rehired (15 per cent) were causing headaches for some contractors.

Comments included:
“No impact”
“We have not seen any negative impact so far”
“Cost of having staff traveling separately and staying in separate accommodations”
“Lay-offs and work sharing”
“Less demand for heat pumps”
“Loss of attention on groundwater issues by government and the public”
“Keeping staff safe and productive”

The average “level of concern” registered was 62 per cent on a scale of 1-100. Contractors, well drillers, well technicians, scientists, suppliers and all involved in the industry were invited to answer this question.

The survey has been extended to gain as much input as possible. Winners of the prize draw for two Visa Gift Cards worth $200 each will be announced in August. Look for a full state-of-the-industry report in the Fall issue of Ground Water Canada.