Heartland 101

Risk assessment, response plans and access to resources are elements of industry and community emergency management programs. Confirming and improving these plans through drills, exercises and simulations not only enhances public safety, it also satisfies certain regulatory requirements.

More than six decades ago, construction began on the first industrial facility in the region. Today, several of the key advantages and commitment to value adding play a key role, just like in the 1950s.

NCIA has been harnessing the collective knowledge, goodwill, and expertise of its more than 20 member companies for more than a decade. Serving as a common voice for industry, the group has been a catalyst for collaborative work and partnerships that are making a profound difference in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland. An example of this can be found in an innovative 10-year agreement between Aux Sable and Shell Canada.

Between carbon capture and storage, offgas processing, energy mapping, and others, companies in the Heartland are exploring and adopting greener projects in our energy sector. This includes Field Upgrading who has a pilot plant that’s testing a cheaper and cleaner way to upgrade bitumen.

Air quality is considered the most important topic to the local community, according to a 2015 Life in the Heartland survey. As such, residents are keen to know how the region’s air quality is monitored.

It’s technology that exists today and is used in many countries, but surprisingly not in Canada. It’s the Wireless Public Alerting Service (WPAS), and until May 30th, Canadians have an opportunity to support its implementation in a Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunication Commission (CRTC) public consultation.

Rail lines have been transporting goods and people across Canada for over 130 years. Since the completion of the railway to the Pacific Ocean in 1885, rail has been a reliable means of transport. Currently, Canada’s railways move $282 billion worth of goods every year, making it one of the most important modes of transport for our economy.

Spring means the start of camping, soccer, and gardening. To the facilities in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, spring means the start of turnaround season and the continuation of construction projects.

Frosty temperatures can also influence air quality. Most of the time, local air quality is of low risk to health. However, it can rise to the medium and even high risk range due to cold weather, even if only for a few hours.

Just 31% of respondents in Life in the Heartland’s recent survey are aware of the safety action to take should a hazardous material be released into the atmosphere. If asked to Shelter in Place, would you know what to do?