Have You Heard of Cold Water Shock?
August 11, 2020
A quarry lake can be very cold even on a hot summer's day. You could die from 'Cold Shock' in less than 2 minutes.
Last weekend the RNLI reported their highest ever level of incidents in one day, so we are taking this opportunity to help raise awareness of the dangers and the precautions you and your family can take.
During any time of the year, it is important to be aware of the dangers open water can bring, however, during the summer months, with hotter weather and more people heading to open water, it is even more critical to spread the awareness and make people aware of the safety tips. The RNLI and RLSS have both published safety guides, with the RNLI ‘Float to Live’ video, demonstrating how floating whilst the cold-water shock passes can increase the chances of staying alive. The RLSS also have a Water Safety Code reminding you to think twice before entering open water.
With people looking to local sites for a quick dip, for many this may mean quarry lakes. Even during hot weather, these remain extremely cold due to the depths of the water. For Quarry Operators, this is an important time to stay vigilant and check all safety measures are in place. If you know anyone that is tempted to head down for a quarry swim, be sure to pass on the MPA’s cold water shock which clearly demonstrates the risks of swimming in cold water. This will hopefully make people think twice.
By Rachael Plant
•
June 17, 2025
Desertification and drought are two of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Exacerbated by climate change, the devastating effects of both can be felt across the globe, with an estimated 40% of the world's population impacted by water scarcity events. As global temperatures continue to rise, and severe weather events increase, regions across the globe face the potential for increased frequency and severity of droughts, often progressing rapidly and unexpectedly. As of 29th May this year, a drought was officially declared in parts of the UK, having experienced the driest start to Spring in over 130 years. Whilst the recent rainfall at the start of June has helped to stabilise concerns, uncertainty for the months ahead still remain. How is the UK landscape affected by drought?
By Rachael Plant
•
June 12, 2025
Envireau Water is delighted to welcome Tom Onslow to our North Office in Richmond! Tom joined us at the start of the month from Western Australia, where he gained experience working as a Field Hydrogeologist. Prior to this, Tom graduated from Newcastle University with a Master of Earth Science (MEarthSci). Tom is experienced in both field and desk-based activities, including the supervision of water exploration drilling programs, conducting hydrogeological sampling and logging, carrying out pumping tests and analysis and designing and installing groundwater monitoring networks. Tom has also built a strong foundation in technical reporting, having contributed to a wide range of water-related projects, particularly across the mining sector. At Envireau Water, Tom will continue to develop his hydrogeological expertise and provide technical support across a range of sectors both on site and in the office.
By Rachael Plant
•
June 11, 2025
As the threat of climate change continues to grow, the occurrence of extreme weather events is becoming increasingly common across the UK, with the rising frequency of flooding and drought posing significant challenges nationwide. After the recent dry spell experienced across the UK, one thing is clear: climate change is a hazard affecting all industries and it is more important than ever for businesses to take proactive steps to secure their water supplies against these unpredictable weather events. We asked our Principal Hydrogeologist, Shona Symon , for her thoughts on the matter within the bottled water industry. Shona, can you explain the importance for operators to safeguard their water bottling plant against the impacts of climate change, and what challenges may arise if not adequately protected?
By Rachael Plant
•
June 17, 2025
Desertification and drought are two of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Exacerbated by climate change, the devastating effects of both can be felt across the globe, with an estimated 40% of the world's population impacted by water scarcity events. As global temperatures continue to rise, and severe weather events increase, regions across the globe face the potential for increased frequency and severity of droughts, often progressing rapidly and unexpectedly. As of 29th May this year, a drought was officially declared in parts of the UK, having experienced the driest start to Spring in over 130 years. Whilst the recent rainfall at the start of June has helped to stabilise concerns, uncertainty for the months ahead still remain. How is the UK landscape affected by drought?
By Rachael Plant
•
June 12, 2025
Envireau Water is delighted to welcome Tom Onslow to our North Office in Richmond! Tom joined us at the start of the month from Western Australia, where he gained experience working as a Field Hydrogeologist. Prior to this, Tom graduated from Newcastle University with a Master of Earth Science (MEarthSci). Tom is experienced in both field and desk-based activities, including the supervision of water exploration drilling programs, conducting hydrogeological sampling and logging, carrying out pumping tests and analysis and designing and installing groundwater monitoring networks. Tom has also built a strong foundation in technical reporting, having contributed to a wide range of water-related projects, particularly across the mining sector. At Envireau Water, Tom will continue to develop his hydrogeological expertise and provide technical support across a range of sectors both on site and in the office.
By Rachael Plant
•
June 11, 2025
As the threat of climate change continues to grow, the occurrence of extreme weather events is becoming increasingly common across the UK, with the rising frequency of flooding and drought posing significant challenges nationwide. After the recent dry spell experienced across the UK, one thing is clear: climate change is a hazard affecting all industries and it is more important than ever for businesses to take proactive steps to secure their water supplies against these unpredictable weather events. We asked our Principal Hydrogeologist, Shona Symon , for her thoughts on the matter within the bottled water industry. Shona, can you explain the importance for operators to safeguard their water bottling plant against the impacts of climate change, and what challenges may arise if not adequately protected?
By Rachael Plant
•
June 10, 2025
We're thrilled to welcome Bethan Joule to our growing Shrewsbury office! Bethan joins us as a Senior Hydrogeologist, bringing over six years of experience in technical roles at Wardell Armstrong. Prior to this, she graduated from Queen’s University Belfast with an MSc in Environmental Engineering in 2019. Bethan is experienced in preparing abstraction licence applications, delivering Hydrogeological Risk Assessments (HRAs), and overseeing a wide range of site investigations — including borehole drilling and hydrogeological testing - across multiple sectors, including minerals, waste, and construction. At Envireau Water , Bethan will be continuing to provide similar hydrogeological services to our extensive client base whilst also developing complimentary skills across our broad range of sectors.
