Potable Water

"Potable" refers to water that is safe to drink. Employers are responsible for ensuring that potable water is distributed properly throughout the temporary work site. OSHA details potable water requirements in 29 CFR 1910.142(c), titled Water Supply. 29 CFR 1910.142(c)(1) through c(4) include the following information regarding water supply and distribution:

• Employers must provide workers with an "adequate and convenient water supply" that is "approved by the appropriate health authority" for drinking, cooking, bathing, and laundry. OSHA defines adequate as "capable of delivering 35 gallons per person per day to the campsite at a peak rate of 2 1/2 times the average hourly demand."
• The water distribution lines must be able to supply water "at normal operating pressures to all fixtures for simultaneous operation."
• If water is not piped directly to the shelters, then water outlets must be placed throughout the camp so that that no shelter is more than 100 feet from a yard hydrant.
• Employers must provide one or more drinking fountains for each 100 occupants or fraction thereof when water under pressure is available.
• Common drinking cups are not allowed.

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