Launch of the 'Suio Safety U': A Game-Changer in Disaster Relief
In an innovative move to improve disaster response capabilities, Waterworks Kiko Co., Ltd. has unveiled its latest emergency water supply device, 'Suio Safety U.' Scheduled for launch in June 2026, this product is designed to address the challenges faced during disaster scenarios, drawing on experiences gathered from past seismic events such as the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, and the recent Noto Peninsula Earthquake.
The dire conditions following natural disasters often result in a severe shortage of both potable and non-potable water. For instance, during the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, evacuees struggled with a lack of drinking water for 2-3 days. Similarly, the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake led to a disruption in water supply that lasted anywhere from one week to five months, according to reports from Ishikawa Prefecture.
The 'Suio Safety U' addresses these critical issues by featuring a filtration system capable of producing potable water and is designed to be set up in just 30 minutes. This rapid deployment capability makes it a vital resource during the crucial first week post-disaster, when supplies are most scarce.
Key Features of 'Suio Safety U'
1.
Versatile Water Source Compatibility: The device can utilize various water sources, such as river or pool water, efficiently filtering out standard bacteria and E. coli. With a standard processing capacity of 3,000 liters per hour, it can generate sufficient drinking water for approximately 10,000 individuals daily.
2.
Continuous Automatic Operation: Even when sourcing water from urban rivers, the device can operate continuously for about one week, ensuring stable water supply in disaster-hit areas.
3.
User-Friendly Operation: Designed for easy use, it requires no specialized skills or training. With a simple connection to a household outlet or generator, users can activate the device with a single switch.
4.
Compact and Mobile Design: The entire system is housed in a compact frame that can fit through standard door sizes, equipped with six-wheel castors for easy mobility. A team of about six personnel can set it up and start operations in roughly 30 minutes after arrival on site.
Tested and Proven
Recent field tests conducted in several rivers, including areas in Wajima City, confirmed that the device meets stringent water quality standards, regardless of weather conditions. Esteemed Professor Masakatsu Miyajima of Kanazawa University praised its high potential during a site visit, highlighting its capacity for rapid, reliable water supply in disaster scenarios.
Waterworks Kiko remains committed to improving its products and technologies, emphasizing their ongoing efforts through the Emergency Water Supply Support Team, 'EWAT'. This initiative aims to facilitate effective relief operations in disaster-affected areas, ensuring that safe water access remains a top priority.
A Legacy of Support
Waterworks Kiko, with nearly a century of experience, has actively engaged in providing support during numerous natural disasters throughout Japan. Their initiatives include the donation of emergency water supply devices following the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024 and supporting communities in need after both the Kumamoto and Great East Japan earthquakes.
Through unwavering dedication and innovation, Waterworks Kiko continues to contribute to disaster recovery efforts, ensuring that clean and safe water is always available when it is needed most.
About Waterworks Kiko Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1924, Waterworks Kiko is committed to connecting people and the earth, fostering a sustainable environment through technological advancements in water supply. With a capital of approximately 1.9 billion yen and over 1,000 employees, the company is a leading figure in Japan’s water management landscape.
For more information, visit the official website
here.