The picture shows Brunswick (near Newcastle upon Tyne) concrete Plant after the recent heavy rain.  The yard was flooded due to a surface water drain being blocked by a farmer carrying out drainage work in the field adjacent to the Plant.

It’s a timely reminder of the need to be prepared for this type of event.

Sean Cassidy, Plant Manager, commented: “I’d recommend it as a scenario for emergency drills at all Readymix Plants.  This will help you to think about issues surrounding admixture storage and bunding, gas oil bunding and drainage.  In events like this it’s important to avoid illegal discharges so always get advice prior to pumping water off site or to a foul sewer.  It’s a credit to the local Ops team, Mick Larmouth and Piero Nardini, who managed to get the Plant back up and running in just over 24 hours.”