Advice on water coolers and drinks machines

Public services union UNISON has produced a briefing on the health risks of water coolers and drinks machines.

UNISON says properly maintained drink machines and water coolers can be safe and are an important part of any workplace. However the union says some machines have been infected with harmful bacteria, often because the dispensers have not been cleaned regularly.

UNISON says safety reps should ensure that there is an active cleaning programme that includes disinfecting machines on a regular basis.

It says periodic testing of all drinks machines and water coolers should be arranged. If bottled water is used, it is important that the bottles are kept in a cool dark place.

UNISON warns that employers should not be allowed to use health and safety considerations to stop providing drinks at work. Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, employers have a responsibility to provide an adequate supply of drinking water.

The briefing is available at: www.unison.org.uk/safety/doc_view.asp?did=817 or by calling 020 75511709