How do I Provide Drinking Water on Construction Job Sites?

The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a government agency that regulates the health and safety requirements for all licensed businesses, requires that construction sites provide adequate, clean drinking water and safe working conditions for all employees. Job sites are often hot and dusty, and workers are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Heat stroke is a very serious health hazard on construction jobs, and employers are responsible for the health and safety of the workers they employ.

Instructions

• 1

  Purchase several large, heavy-duty reusable plastic water containers. The containers should have a tight-fitting lid and a pour spout. These containers are available at hardware stores and home-improvement centers, and they cost $25 to $40 each. Fill with clean water and ice, and be sure to provide disposable paper or Styrofoam cups. OSHA regulations require single-use cups, and no ladles or dipping utensils.

• 2

  Fill an ice chest or cooler with individual bottles of purified water. Purchase the water by the case and refill as necessary. Replenish ice and water throughout the day as the ice begins to melt.

• 3

  Bring several large jugs of purified water. The jugs can be refilled at a water station for convenience. They can be kept cold in a small refrigerator or ice chest, or they can be frozen and allowed to thaw.

• 4

  Map out drinking fountains for employee use. Let all new employees know the location of drinking fountains on the job site.