How business owners can improve water quality within the office
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Business owners looking to appeal to and better serve their team members and property owners looking to keep their building’s systems running smoothly for as long as possible have several common interests. They want to provide office spaces that are well insulated and warm in the winter and dry, cool and comfortable in the summer. One common interest that does not always get enough attention, however, is the water quality within office buildings.
International plumbing codes mandate commercial buildings offer at least one drinking fountain per 100 occupants. While these codes require a certain number of water fountains, certain parameters for spout height and accessibility, they do not require quality checks or standards beyond typical tap water. It should be noted that primary standards limit the levels of contaminants in drinking water, and many believe our country has the cleanest drinking water in its history. Still, there are concerns about certain contaminants like PFAS and lead in particular, and some groups, like the Natural Resources Defense Council, have called for stricter regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Whether stricter standards are adopted or not, business owners and property managers alike would be wise to make the quality in their office building as clean and clear as possible. As more businesses are asking employees to return to or stay in the office, having as clean a water source as possible is yet another way to ensure team members feel welcomed to a safe, comfortable environment that empowers them to do their best possible work.
When and How to Test
At Mr. Plumber, we recommend water testing be done annually. This may seem like a lot (especially when many people may have never even tested the water in their homes, which should also be done annually), but there are many factors that can change the quality of water over time. For example, utility companies may change out pipes, and that could affect your water.
To have a business or home water quality analysis, there are two options to take. The first would be to work with a reputable local plumbing company. They would come to your home or office to test for contaminants and impurities that may provide health risks. Typically, they are only testing for chlorine, pH, hardness and iron in the water. To test for other chemicals in the water, you will need to contact your local health department or an independent testing agency.
How to Improve Water Quality
Once water quality is analyzed, consider how to best go about improving water quality, if deemed necessary. There is not a one size fits all approach to improving water quality. Water filtration systems are a common solution. Smaller offices may be able to utilize a water softener or refiner.
The Environmental Impact
More and more people are relying on water bottles for daily drinking rather than their office’s drinking water. Bottled water sales have even surpassed soda sales. These bottles, while convenient, create an incredible amount of waste. Businesses can heavily combat plastic waste and offset the carbon footprint of both producing and transporting bottled water by offering water in-house that employees actually want to drink. It’s a win for your staff and the environment.
If you decide to test and potentially improve the water quality within your office space, don’t keep it a secret. Plan to let your colleagues know that you’re investing in the environment, their health and their comfort by making meaningful changes within their shared workspace.
Paul Hallam is the Plumbing Director for Mr. Plumber, a leading plumbing company serving Central Indiana.