Non-potable water, unfit for drinking, poses potential health risks, and it's crucial for workers to understand how to navigate these risks and safeguard themselves and others.

The term 'non-potable water' refers to water not suitable for drinking but still usable for other purposes. Potable water, meeting quality standards for drinking, cooking, and bathing, is defined by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. When uncertain about water quality, consider it non-potable unless sourced from a known drinking water supply system.

Examples of non-potable water in workplaces encompass rainwater from tanks for cooling towers and car washing, quarry water for dust suppression, swimming pool backwash water for toilet flushing, agricultural wastewater for crop irrigation, creek and river water, recycled water from sewage treatment plants, and groundwater. Recycled water, having been used at least once, may contain contaminants without proper treatment.

The risks associated with non-potable water involve health issues arising from micro-organisms and chemicals. Micro-organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, can cause severe gastroenteritis. Chemicals from various sources can lead to short or long-term health effects, such as skin disorders, organ damage, reproductive conditions, and cancer.

Managing the risk of non-potable water is a collective effort between workers and management to create a safe workplace. Workers must adhere to health and safety instructions, use equipment properly, follow policies and procedures, and seek clarification when needed. Employers, or Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), are obligated under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 to manage workplace risks. Employing the four-step risk management process outlined in WHS laws and referring to the How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice 2021 can aid businesses in meeting their safety responsibilities.