Free Download
Workplace Hydration Guide
The complete guide to office hydration — water coolers, boiling taps, filtration systems, and how to keep your team refreshed, focused, and productive all day.
What's inside: Hydration & productivity stats · Water cooler types explained · Boiling tap guide · Filtration options · Compliance & water safety · Cost comparison
Why Workplace Hydration Matters
Dehydration of just 1–2% of body weight causes measurable declines in concentration, reaction time, and mood. For a desk-based workforce, this translates directly into reduced output and increased errors. Providing easy access to quality water is one of the simplest, highest-ROI investments an employer can make.
- Staff who are well-hydrated are up to 14% more productive
- Headaches — a leading cause of lost focus — are frequently caused by mild dehydration
- Employers have a legal duty to provide adequate drinking water under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
Your Hydration Options Explained
Mains-Fed Water Coolers
Connected directly to your water supply. No bottles to change, no running out. Chilled and ambient water on demand. Best for offices of 10+ people. Requires a plumbing connection.
Bottled Water Coolers
No plumbing required — ideal for locations where mains connection isn't possible. Bottles delivered on a schedule. Higher ongoing cost and logistics to manage, but flexible placement.
Boiling Water Taps
Instant boiling, chilled, and sparkling water from a single tap. Replaces the kettle entirely and dramatically reduces the time staff spend waiting for water to boil. Premium option, excellent for meeting rooms and kitchen areas.
Water Filtration Systems
Improves the taste and quality of mains water by removing chlorine, limescale, and impurities. Often integrated into coolers and boiling taps. Essential in hard water areas (most of England).
How Much Water Does Your Office Need?
The NHS recommends 6–8 glasses (1.5–2 litres) of water per person per day. For planning purposes, use 2 litres per person per day as your baseline, then add for hot drinks, cooking, and cleaning.
- 10 staff — 20 litres/day minimum
- 50 staff — 100 litres/day minimum
- 100+ staff — Multiple units or a high-capacity mains-fed system
Compliance: What the Law Requires
Under UK workplace regulations, employers must provide:
- An adequate supply of wholesome drinking water
- Water that is readily accessible
- Suitable cups or drinking vessels (unless the supply is a drinking fountain)
Mains-fed coolers with regular servicing and filter changes are the most reliable way to meet these requirements.
Cost Comparison
| Solution | Est. Monthly Cost (20 staff) |
|---|---|
| Bottled water delivery | £80–£150 |
| Bottled water cooler (rental + bottles) | £60–£120 |
| Mains-fed water cooler (rental + servicing) | £25–£60 |
| Boiling water tap (rental + filter) | £40–£80 |
Find the right hydration solution for your office
Our team will assess your office and recommend the most cost-effective setup — with installation and ongoing servicing included.
Get a Free Recommendation →