Understanding 'non-potable water':
- Non-potable water is not safe for drinking but may have other purposes. Potable water, suitable for drinking, cooking, and bathing, follows the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
- Unless you're sure water is drinkable (e.g., from a drinking water supply system), treat it as non-potable.
Examples of non-potable water in the workplace:
- Rainwater from tanks for cooling towers and car washing
- Quarry water for dust suppression and landscape irrigation
- Swimming pool backwash water for toilet flushing
- Agricultural wastewater for crop irrigation
- Creek, dam, and river water
- Recycled water from sewage treatment plants for various uses, including dust suppression, car washing, or landscape and sports field irrigation
- Recycled greywater
- Groundwater
Risks of non-potable water:
- Drinking non-potable water poses health risks from micro-organisms and chemicals.
- Micro-organisms may include viruses, bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli), and gastro-intestinal parasites (e.g., Giardia, Hydatid, Cryptosporidium), causing severe gastroenteritis.
- Chemicals from industry, agriculture, waste, and natural contaminants can lead to various health issues, including skin problems, nervous system damage, developmental conditions, and cancer.
Managing the risk: For workers:
- Follow health and safety instructions, use equipment properly, and adhere to safe work policies and procedures.
- Take reasonable care for your health and safety and that of others.
- Seek clarification if anything is unclear or if you have uncertainties.
For businesses:
- Employers (PCBU) have a duty to manage workplace risks under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
- Implement the four-step risk management process and refer to the How to manage work health and safety risks code of practice 2021 for practical guidance.