24/10/08
A recent survey of water companies in the UK found a firm commitment to offer fresh drinking water in the workplace. The survey, for the Water@Work campaign, was undertaken by Water for Health Alliance.
Water@Work promotes health and well-being through good hydration in the workplace. Spearheaded by UNISON, campaign supporters include Northumbrian Water, Essex and Suffolk Water, Anglian Water, Southern Water, Cambridge Water, Welsh Water and the Consumer Council for Water. The survey indicates:
• All respondent water companies give high importance to ensuring good hydration in the workplace. Fresh water is readily available.
• All water companies regularly test drinking water, clean vessels and storage facilities as required by water hygiene regulations.
• All companies keep a plentiful supply of cups or vessels beside drinking water.
• Mains-fed water coolers are used by all companies
• Other forms of dispensing water include purpose taps in the kitchen and water jugs at meetings.
• Places to find water include allocated refreshment areas, corridors, the kitchen, the canteen, reception areas, meetings rooms, and near to workstations.
• Only four companies do not provide a conspicuous “Drinking Water” sign.
Resources on the benefits of drinking tap water are available to employers and employees to download on our website or www.wateratwork.org.
