What does a La Nina period mean for construction sites and wet weather prep

During a La Nina phase, Australia's northern waters are warm with increased convection. This allows more moisture to be lifted into the air than normal, typically resulting in increased rain for eastern and northern Australia. Given there has been plenty of talk about La Nina, sites should ensure they are prepared for above average rainfall over the coming months. Regulators may well deem that site operators should be monitoring rainfall forecasts as part of standard site management and therefore be aware of the increased risk to discharging sediment laden runoff from site.

Whilst many sites may have sediment and drainage controls installed per the appropriate design standards, the need to maintain high level of erosion control and general site management (i.e. inspection, operation and maintenance of all control measures) is heightened with the increased potential for wet weather. The underlying requirement or duty for individuals and companies to do everything reasonable and practicable to minimise environmental harm or water pollution must be at the forefront of mind leading into wet weather periods. The best advice is to ask yourself - “if the regulator came to my site would they walk away thinking that everything reasonable and practical had been done”. If the answer is 'no', then perhaps now is a good time to review your controls and preparation.