Prevent Accidents and Keep your Workforce Hydrated

Feb. 25, 2013 - PRLog -- The importance of good hydration is often overlooked, yet research proves that even mild levels of dehydration can have a dramatic impact upon both physical and mental performance.

For individuals working outdoors, in industry or on building sites where access to drinking water may be limited, remaining hydrated is of even greater importance. Government Health Officials recommend the consumption of 6-8 glasses of water (1.2 litres) each day to replace normal water loss and prevent dehydration - however, for those with physical jobs who may have to endure hot temperatures, the required daily intake of water rises to at least 2.5 litres.

Drinking adequate fluids can present a problem to those working on construction sites, or where restrictive clothing or masks need to be worn, and it is often difficult and impractical to maintain a pattern of drinking regularly to avoid dehydration. The resulting reduction in alertness, concentration and speed of reaction can have serious consequences, particularly in potentially hazardous environments. This becomes even more of a serious risk factor where the operation of heavy machinery is involved, where full concentration is paramount in order to ensure the safety of workers and the general public

For these reasons, work safety organisations such as the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) state that there should be adequate supplies of water in the workplace which take the working environment and type of activity into account. It has also been suggested that workers exposed to heat stress should be encouraged to drink fluids on a regular basis, for example 250ml at 20 minute intervals, in order to replenish lost fluids before dehydration becomes a risk.

Water system supplier Eau Coolers specialise in providing workplaces across the UK with a range of products, from portable filtered water dispensers which are ideal for working site locations, to office water coolers where air conditioning may also expose workers to the risks of dehydration.

Able to cater for short or long-term contracts, Eau Coolers can provide workforces of five to five-hundred with the water supply required to meet their needs. What’s more, all of the company’s cooler products provide water chilled for refreshment, filtered to remove chemicals, and with an improved flavour and odour.

Andy Manning, Managing Director, said: “Ensuring your workforce has access to the water they need to remain hydrated is one of the most basic, yet crucial rules for an employer. Our customers can rely upon Eau Coolers for the water systems they need, as well as the products required for the maintenance of their equipment. This enhances our offering of a high level of service and aftercare to our customers, and will help to reduce the risks associated with dehydration which include low productivity and the increased potential for accidents on-site.”

For more information, visit http://www.eaucoolers.co.uk