09/03/07
Q: Dr Kumar (Labour, Middlesborough South and East Cleveland)
A: Ian Pearson (Minister of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
09 March 2007
House of Commons written answer
Dr Kumar: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will assess the availability of fresh drinking water in public places; and if she will make a statement.
Ian Pearson: I have been asked to reply.
Owners, or those who are responsible for the management of public buildings or other public places, may provide or make available a supply of drinking water. If they choose to do so, or are required to do so under a scheme of legislation, they may safely rely on the quality of the public drinking water supply.
Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 employers are required to provide an adequate supply of “wholesome” drinking water for all people at work in the workplace. The supply should be readily accessible at suitable places, conspicuously marked by an appropriate sign where necessary for health or safety reasons. Unless the water is in a jet, employers should also provide cups.
