Industry insights

How the UK Employment Law Stands on Drinking Water

1 min read

By Will Vickery |  Published

Research and evidence has shown that allowing and even encouraging, water breaks could give your business a boost. The evidence suggests that adequately hydrated employees are more upbeat, productive, concentrate better, have more energy, and are less likely to suffer from headaches and fatigue.

What Does the Law Say About Drinking Water at Work?

Whether your carrying out physical labour in hot conditions or working in an air-conditioned office, drinking water frequently is so important. Recent studies have shown the benefits of proper workplace hydration and the positive impact it can have on your business. Actively encouraging employees to drink water during the workday, is something that seems to make perfect sense. But where does the law stand on drinking water?

It’s the employer’s responsibility to protect employee health and safety, and there’s no denying that dehydration is a health risk. The health and safety laws provide the basics employees need: clean toilet facilities, hand washing facilities and a safe clean place to eat lunch. The provision of free drinking water is also on at the list, and as it should be. But, what kind of drinking water should employees provide?

The Minimum Drinking Water Provision That Must Be Provided

  • Be available
  • Be clean
  • Be free from any form of contamination
  • Be easily accessible & unlimited

In addition, employers must provide hygienic cups for water – washable drinking glasses, cups or disposable cups are part of the requirement that they must provide.

So, give your employees water that they’ll enjoy drinking, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of a hydrated, fully-functional workforce.

For more information, on how Thirsty Work can help you to provide your employees fresh clean drinking water, get in contact with us.