By Jessica Micallef
Coliban Water is reassuring customers its water quality and supply will not be disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Managing director Damian Wells said there was no evidence that coronavirus is spread by drinking water.
“The current evidence is that the coronavirus is transmitted from person-to-person contact, with droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze, or touching objects or surfaces and then touching your mouth or face,” he said.
“Existing water treatment and disinfection processes, including use of chlorine, are effective in removing viruses from water supplies.”
The company’s customer service centre and reception at 37 Bridge Street, Bendigo is closed until further notice.
Mr Wells said Coliban Water’s Pandemic and Emergency Response Plans have been enacted and an incident team is working to ensure the maintenance of supply, service and quality is of a high standard.
“Our team is still able to support and assist customers by our … phone line, email or our website,” he said.
“There will be changes to how our business operates internally, with many staff working from home and rostering in place to support key network operations.
“But we are still well equipped to continue running business as usual.
“We want to reassure our customers that we are prepared to face the challenges of the coronavirus and will continue to supply safe drinking water, sewer services and customer services throughout this time.”
Coliban Water will continue to work with the information provided by the Water Services Association of Australia, Victoria’s Department of Health and Human Services, the federal government’s Department of Health, the World Health Organisation and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
“We are prepared for this outbreak, including having arrangements in place for potential supply-chain impacts such as the supply of chemicals, parts and equipment,” Mr Wells said.
“We will also endeavour to support the supply-chain by continuing capital projects and works currently underway as best as we can.”
Coliban Water services Macedon Ranges’ residents in Malmsbury, Kyneton and Tylden.
For more information, visit: coliban.com.au/covid-19
