Water Coolers
Water coolers are often used to provide safe, cool drinking water. 
However, water coolers are not a fit-and-forget item and a robust process is required to ensure risk management and safe practices are employed.
This process should address the following questions
Is the water cooler placed in a way that minimises the risk of cross-contamination?
Is there a daily cleaning roster for the device, and have staff been briefed regarding their responsibilities?
Is there an ongoing servicing contract reflecting the daily use of the water cooler in line with the size of the facility and the services offered?
Guidelines For Safe Use
It is the responsibility of the facility manager to ensure the following
Single-use disposable cups are provided
Water should never be consumed directly from the cooler without the use of a disposable cup
Water coolers are fitted with a cup filler and not a drinking nozzle
Drip trays (if present) are emptied regularly throughout the day and kept clean
Integral wastewater collectors (if present) must be emptied, cleaned and disinfected in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
Cleaning and emptying of the drip tray water cooler are included in a routine cleaning schedule