WELLness on Tap (#37)

Sitting in a dry office all day can deplete anyone's natural water reserves. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, mild dehydration is surprisingly common in adults and can cause headaches and fatigue. 

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends that women consume approximately 2.7 liters (91 oz) and Men 3.7 liters (125 oz) of water per day. Plus, the HBR reports that dehydration can even contribute to deep vein thrombosis in the workplace.

So how do we get employees to drink more water?

WELL Standard #37 – Drinking water promotion focuses on just that. It includes three parts:

Part 1: Drinking Water Taste Properties – Outlines the maximum amount of minerals allowed in the water.

Part 2: Drinking Water Access – Requires a drinking water source within 100 feet of all regularly occupied floor space with a minimum of one per floor.

Part 3: Water Dispenser Maintenance – Outlines the regularity with which parts of the water dispenser must be cleaned.

Lukewarm water from a freshly cleaned fountain by the bathrooms doesn't always cut it for employees. Water coolers have long been the solution, supplying staff with tasty cool water and a place to chat. 

But now, an even more efficient model has arrived. Some companies help their employees meet their hydration goals while also meeting WELL standards by installing water bottle filling stations like the one made by Elkay. With a simple hookup to a water line and the internet, these dispensers reduce the number of plastic water bottles used and provide a continuous source of cool or hot filtered water. No more waiting on water deliveries for your cooler! 

They also provide real-time statistics on how much water is consumed and when filters must be changed. In today’s water-conscious world, there are plenty of ways to maximize your employees' health by promoting drinking water.

Be WELL!