AboutMike Brown CSP Retired Expertise I specialize in the professional management of occupational safety and health as well as workers` compensation to reduce losses and improve production and address related issues through a comprehensive approach by senior management using proven principals.I worked for over twenty (20) years in the management of occupational safety, health and workers` compensation and safety training (Retired from employment in 1996 due to a stroke, which prevented the extensive travel required).
Question My work recently enacted an instore policy prohibiting its associates from drinking bottled water while at their work stations. They told us that we can go to the public drinkinfg fountains or use one of our two 15 min breaks for the day if we wish to drink bottled water, but we have to be in the break room. Is there any law protecting associates from policies like these.
Answer Subject: Drinking Water
Question: My work recently enacted an instore policy prohibiting its associates from drinking bottled water while at their work stations. They told us that we can go to the public drinking fountains or use one of our two 15 min breaks for the day if we wish to drink bottled water, but we have to be in the break room. Is there any law protecting associates from policies like these.
Answer: In short no, rules and regulations require that drinking water must be available. They normally do not go into specifics (some situations do have specific requirements, i.e. construction, etc.). If there is water available then the rules and regulations are met. To expect to be allowed to have bottled water at your station is a matter that must be worked out between the employees and management. Your question did not list the reasons management has taken this stance. (Water spilled into certain electronic equipment is not cool and can be expensive. Some sanitations concerns could be present.) Without hearing both sides of the story, this is the only response I can give.
Michael Brown, CSP Retired
