30/01/07
Water UK welcomes a UNISON initiative to support employee health through good hydration in the workplace.
There is no doubt that good health in the workplace saves money. The medical facts are that well-nourished and hydrated people are more resistant to illness and recover more quickly if they do become ill. The business facts are that 33 million working days are lost each year due to occupational ill health, and sickness absence costs employers at least £11 billion each year.
Water UK is supporting a UNISON initiative to promote good hydration through increased access to fresh water in the workplace. More and more businesses are promoting fresh drinking water to their staff and realising the healthy benefits to business of good hydration, increased productivity and a decrease in sickness absence.
Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 employers must provide an adequate supply of “wholesome” drinking water for all people at work in the workplace. Employers should make this readily accessible and have it accompanied by cups... but not all do!
Pamela Taylor, Chief Executive at Water UK, commented:
“Good hydration is critical for our well-being, and yet the understanding of the important role that the nation's tap water can play in boosting workplace health is poor. Good hydration can help improve concentration, reduce headaches, and stop feelings of tiredness, anxiety and irritability. It can also help prevent many minor health complications that lead to lost productivity and absence from work.
“Water UK is delighted to support UNISON in its efforts to protect employee health and safety, improve the work environment and ensure all employees have access to fresh tap water at work.”
More information
Nick Ellins, Policy Adviser
020 7344 1810 or
Barrie Clarke, Director of Communication
020 7344 1804
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