Water Coolers and Hydration Stations - Insights and Tips for Optimal Workplace Refreshment

In today's fast-paced work environments, it is crucial to prioritise employee well-being and productivity, as you have a duty of care for your workforce. One aspect of well-being, which is often overlooked is proper hydration. Dehydration can negatively impact cognitive function, energy levels, and overall performance. To address this, many workplaces are implementing water coolers or bottle filling stations to encourage employees to stay hydrated throughout the day. During this article, we will explore insights and provide tips for optimal workplace refreshment through the effective use of water coolers and bottle filling stations.

Hydration and Workplace Productivity

The Importance of Hydration

Adequate hydration is vital for optimal physical and mental performance. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, decreased focus, and reduced cognitive abilities. By maintaining proper hydration levels, employees will enhance their productivity as well as overall well-being.

Role of Bottle Filling Stations

Water coolers and bottle filling stations offer a convenient and accessible way for employees to remain well hydrated by refilling their water bottles or cups. These stations provide clean fresh filtered water, ensuring a steady means of hydration throughout the working day.

Health Benefits

Regular hydration not only boosts productivity but also has numerous health benefits. It helps regulate body temperature, aids digestion, promotes cardiovascular health, and supports kidney function. By providing bottle filling stations, employers demonstrate their duty of care, and commitment to employee health and well-being.

Tips for Optimising Workplace Refreshment

Location and Accessibility

Locate water coolers and bottle filling stations strategically throughout the workplace, ensuring they are easily accessible to all employees. Consider high-traffic areas like break and staff rooms, near workstations, or in communal areas such as the staff kitchen or canteen. This accessibility encourages employees to take regular hydration breaks without disrupting their workflow.

Promote Awareness

Educate employees about the importance of hydration and its positive effects on productivity. Share information through email newsletters, bulletin boards, or workplace wellness programmes. Encourage employees to make use of water coolers and bottle filling stations and provide tips for incorporating regular hydration into their daily routine.

Water Quality

Ensure the water provided in water coolers and bottle filling stations is clean and of high quality. Regularly clean and maintain the filtration system so that no bugs and germs are passed around your staff. Employees are more likely to use water coolers and bottle filling stations if they trust the quality of the water and the cleanliness of the dispenser.

Variety and Customisation

Consider offering different types of water at the hydration stations to cater to individual preferences. For example, provide options such as chilled water, sparkling water, or infused water with fruits or herbs. These varieties are a little different from the norm and encourage employees to hydrate regularly.

Personalisation

Encourage employees to bring their own water bottles and personalise them with their names or other identifiable markings. This practice not only reduces plastic waste but also promotes ownership and encourages individuals to take responsibility for their hydration needs. Consider providing reusable water bottles as a welcome gift for new employees or as part of a wellness initiative.

Reminders and Breaks

Incorporate reminders into the workplace routine to prompt employees to take hydration breaks. This can be done through software notifications, regular announcements, or setting specific break times. Encourage employees to step away from their desks to stretch their legs and hydrate, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Regular Maintenance

Bottle filling stations require regular maintenance to ensure they function optimally. Assign a responsible person or team to monitor the stations. This includes checking filters, cleaning dispensers, and promptly addressing any issues or repairs. Regular maintenance guarantees a seamless and reliable hydration experience for employees.

Water coolers and bottle filling stations play a significant role in promoting employee well-being and productivity in the workplace. By implementing these insights and tips, employers can create an environment that prioritises hydration and encourages employees to adopt healthy hydration habits. Remember, optimal workplace refreshment starts with accessibility (particularly in areas where there is little access to a water supply), awareness, and a commitment to maintaining clean and reliable water coolers and bottle filling stations. Prioritising employee hydration is a small investment that yields significant benefits for both employees and organisations alike.

But we haven’t yet addressed the elephant in the room – what becomes of the die-hard coffee drinkers? After all, coffee seems to be the office drink of choice…

Can coffee keep you hydrated?

Coffee is mildly diuretic, meaning it can increase urine production and potentially lead to a slightly higher fluid loss. In the past, it was believed that consuming coffee could cause dehydration due to its diuretic effects. However, recent studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption does not significantly dehydrate the body.

While coffee may have a diuretic effect, the water content in a cup of coffee can still contribute to your overall daily fluid intake. As long as you drink coffee in moderation and balance it with an adequate amount of water or other hydrating drinks, it is unlikely to have a significant dehydrating effect.

Having said that, it's important to note that excessive consumption of coffee or any other caffeinated drinks can have a more noticeable diuretic effect and may contribute to dehydration. Additionally, individuals who are more sensitive to caffeine or have certain health conditions, such as kidney problems or urinary issues, may experience a stronger diuretic effect from coffee.

In general, if you enjoy coffee and consume it in moderation, it can be part of your daily fluid intake. However, for optimal hydration, it is still recommended to primarily rely on water and other non-caffeinated beverages.

How do our bodies deal with caffeinated drinks, and will they actually make us more productive?

When we consume caffeinated drinks, such as coffee or energy drinks, several physiological responses occur in our bodies. Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, leading to various effects.

Alertness and wakefulness

Caffeine acts as an adenosine receptor antagonist, which prevents the binding of adenosine (a compound that promotes sleep and relaxation). By blocking adenosine receptors, caffeine increases neuronal activity, leading to a sense of alertness and wakefulness.

Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Caffeine stimulates the release of adrenaline, a hormone that activates our "fight or flight" response. This can result in a temporary increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

Enhanced cognitive function

Caffeine can improve cognitive function, including increased attention, focus, and reaction time. It can also reduce mental fatigue and improve mood. However, the effects may vary depending on individual tolerance, dosage, and other factors. It’s important that you get plenty of rest and don’t rely on caffeine to fuel your day!

Productivity

As a stimulant, caffeine can provide a temporary boost in energy, alertness, and focus. It can help combat fatigue and increase the ability to concentrate on tasks. However, the extent to which caffeine improves productivity varies among individuals and depends on factors like tolerance, dosage, and overall health.

It's important to note that excessive consumption of caffeinated drinks can have an adverse effect, leading to jitteriness, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and increased heart rate. Additionally, prolonged and excessive use of caffeine can lead to dependence and tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects.

To make the most of the potential productivity benefits of caffeine, it's advisable to consume it in moderation and be mindful of your individual tolerance and sensitivity. It's also important to consider other factors that contribute to productivity; a healthy lifestyle including a balanced diet, regular exercise, sufficient rest and sleep, and effective time management.

What are some different types of healthy drinks an office can keep on hand for those employees that don’t like plain water?

There are many different types of healthy drinks you can keep in the office for employees who prefer something other than plain water or coffee. We’ve put together some options:

Herbal teas

Offer a variety of herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger, or green tea. They are packed with flavour and can provide various health benefits.

Infused water

Add slices of fresh fruits like lemon, lime, orange, or berries to your water. Alternatively herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary, or sliced cucumber all add a hint of flavour without any added sugars or calories.

Coconut water

Coconut water is a refreshing and natural beverage that is low in calories and packed with electrolytes. It can be a great alternative to sugary sports drinks and has fast become a staple for those wishing to follow a plant-based diet.

Sparkling water

Many people enjoy the fizziness of carbonated drinks. You can stock up on flavoured sparkling water or invest in a sparkling water tap for a healthier alternative to soda.

Vegetable juices

Offer a selection of vegetable juices like tomato, carrot, or beetroot juice. These are nutrient-rich options that can provide a boost of vitamins and minerals. Beetroot juice in particular is known to lower blood pressure.

Cold-pressed juices

Consider providing cold-pressed juices made from fresh fruits and vegetables. They are often packed with nutrients and can be a delicious way to stay hydrated, particularly if you have a sweet tooth.

Iced herbal or fruit teas

Brew herbal or fruit teas and refrigerate them for a refreshing iced drink option. You can experiment with different flavours like hibiscus, berry, or mint.

Homemade smoothies

Set up a blender in the office kitchen and provide a variety of fruits, vegetables, and yogurt or milk alternatives. Employees can create their own nutritious smoothie combinations.

Remember to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies when selecting and offering these drinks. Providing a diverse range of options can help ensure that all employees can find something they enjoy and stay hydrated throughout the workday.