The Standards Council of Canada (SCC) released two videos, as part of the Northern Infrastructure Standardization Initiative (NISI), to help building owners and operators address the effects of climate change by protecting new and existing Northern infrastructure from flooding and building collapse. The videos use animation and clear language to describe two NISI standards: Managing Changing Snow Load Risks for Buildings in Canada’s North and Community Drainage System Planning, Design & Maintenance in Northern Communities.
These videos are summaries only. All four NISI standards are available free of charge.
Managing Changing Snow Load Risks for Buildings in Canada’s North
Arctic regions have seen an increase in snowfall and extreme snow events. The following video explains and demonstrates how to measure snowfall, check snow-covered buildings for risk of collapse, and safely remove snow from roofs.
Community Drainage System Planning, Design and Maintenance in Northern Communities
Community drainage planning in the North is unique for several reasons, including long periods of extremely low temperatures, exceptionally large and remote drainage basins, permafrost, small and isolated communities with low population density, and consideration for the social and cultural context of land use. The following video outlines drainage system maintenance tips to prevent flooding, washout and road erosion in Northern communities.
About NISI
Northern infrastructure is highly vulnerable to the impact of climate change. With the support of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), SCC is working to ensure that standards address the climate risks inherent in the design, planning and management of Northern infrastructure.