MOC has learned many lessons over the 23 years that we have been in business. For every emergency, whether a winter storm, hurricane, or even a tornado like Houston had in May of 2024, the best preparations are done far in advance. Throughout the year, MOC exercises generators weekly, filters diesel fuel of each generator biannually, and maintains a strict PM (preventative maintenance) program on both stationary and portable generators.
To prevent problems during a winter storm, we begin winterizing facilities in late September and have several inspections at each facility to ensure nothing is missed. Each inspection is done using an online form so that pictures can be uploaded, and management can see what facility inspections are pending. It is easy for an operator that visits a facility every day to overlook something small that could be very important during a freeze. MOC wants to make sure those items are identified and corrected before they cause a problem later.
Additionally, MOC has a disaster plan that details each field employees’ responsibilities during an emergency. While the disaster plan is a living document, changes regularly, and is available online for each employee, we print these before hurricane season each year. This way, if there is a loss of internet service, each field employee will have what they need. Before hurricane season, our area managers also meet with new employees in the field to walk them through their emergency duties so there is no confusion.
Finally, during emergencies, all of MOC’s field staff are stationed in a designated area to minimize response time and the need to drive on the main roads. If possible, we have staff in the districts before the event, assuring there will not be a lag in available personnel. The plant operators will monitor water and wastewater facilities 24 hours a day to ensure everything is operating as it should. The field techs will monitor the neighborhood for issues like leaks or sewer backups and be available to respond to any customer emergencies
quickly.