New Equipment Helps Questa Utility Crews Reduce Workplace Injuries and Improve Water and Wastewater Service Reliability

Questa water and wastewater utility crews have lacked the specialized equipment needed to safely handle heavy chemical drums and efficiently cut asphalt during water tap and sewer line installations and repairs. Without this equipment, staff face elevated safety risks, slower project timelines, and higher labor demands—affecting the reliability of essential public infrastructure services across the community. When the utility clerk identified these gaps and the risks they posed to both workers and residents, she reached out to LOR for support to purchase equipment that will help solve the problem. A hydraulic lift stackers and drum dolly will reduce the risk of workplace injuries associated with manually moving and positioning heavy chemical drums, and a dedicated asphalt saw will allow crews to perform installations and repairs without relying on borrowed or rented equipment, reducing delays and minimizing service disruptions for residents and businesses. LOR’s funding will help the Questa utility department purchase two hydraulic lift stackers, a gallon drum dolly, and a Stihl asphalt saw. Staff will be trained on safe operation and maintenance procedures before deploying the equipment across ongoing water treatment, water tap installation, and sewer line projects. The investments carry long service lives and will be used repeatedly across projects, providing lasting value and supporting the reliable delivery of water and wastewater services throughout Questa.