- Cema Refreshments
- Unit 5 Pintail Close
- Victoria Business Park
- Nottingham
- NG4 2SG
Is your workplace ready for the next heatwave?
May and June 2026 brought record-breaking temperatures to the UK, with hot weather arriving earlier than many businesses might expect. When temperatures climb, having cold drinking water within easy reach can make a real difference to how employees feel throughout the working day.
From making water more accessible to choosing the right workplace water cooler, here are some simple ways to help your workforce stay refreshed, comfortable and hydrated this summer.
Water supports concentration, energy levels and temperature regulation. Even mild dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, dizziness and reduced focus.
During warmer weather, employees lose more fluid through sweating. Encouraging people to drink regularly can therefore support their wellbeing, comfort and ability to concentrate throughout the working day.
Encourage employees to keep reusable water bottles at their desks and take regular breaks away from screens. Simple reminders through posters, digital signage or internal communications can also help encourage people to drink regularly.
Just as importantly, make sure fresh water is easy to find and access. Employers are more likely to drink regularly when convenient drinking points are available close to where they work or take breaks.
QUICK CHECKLIST
UK employers have a legal duty under workplace welfare regulations to provide an adequate supply of wholesome drinking water for employees.
Drinking water must be readily accessible, clearly identified and available to all staff throughout the working day. Employers should also provide enough drinking points to meet the needs of their workforce.
The water should be fresh, hygienic and regularly maintained, whether supplied through bottled coolers, plumbed-in systems or dispenser taps.
Providing convenient access to water helps businesses meet their workplace responsibilities whilst making it easier for employees to develop healthier drinking habits.
If you would like more information on drinking water at work and the responsibilities of the employer, take a look at Cema’s detailed guide on the Laws and Regulations of Drinking Water at Work.
If your existing facilities aren’t keeping up with your workforce, a dedicated water cooler can provide a simple and convenient solution. Cema’s current water cooler offer includes bottled and plumbed-in models from £6.75 + VAT per week, with maintenance included. Businesses also receive a free box of plastic water cups.
The right option will depend on the size of your workplace, the number of employees and how much drinking water your team needs throughout the day.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to workplace water. The location of your drinking points, access to plumbing and expected demand can all influence which system works best.
If you’re unsure where to start, our guide to choosing an office water cooler covers some of the main points to consider before making a decision.
Bottled water coolers provide a flexible source of chilled drinking water and are suitable for offices, reception areas, warehouses and break rooms where plumbing is not available.
Connected directly to the mains supply, plumbed-in office water coolers provide a continuous source of filtered water and are ideal for larger workplaces with higher consumption.
Water dispenser taps provide filtered drinking water and are a practical option for smaller offices and kitchens.
The water itself can also influence which system you choose. If you’re weighing up your options, Cema has taken a closer look at tap water vs bottled water and the differences between the two.
Drinking water isn’t the only refreshment option available to employees.
Hot drinks can form part of a wider workplace refreshment offering, with Cema’s hot drinks machines providing options including tea, coffee and hot chocolate. The Coffetek Vitro M5 can also dispense cold drinks.
For workplaces with high demand for tea and other hot drinks, a commercial water boiler provides instant access to hot water without employees repeatedly waiting for a kettle to boil. Find out more about the workplace benefits of commercial water boilers.
Vending machines can also provide easy access to bottled water, flavoured water and other refreshing drinks. Product selections can be tailored to workforce preferences, giving employees more choice throughout the working day.
Making fresh drinking water visible, accessible and convenient can support employee wellbeing and help workplaces prepare for periods of warmer weather.
Is it time to review what your workplace currently provides? Cema can help you choose a water solution that suits your workforce, space and requirements. Explore Cema’s water cooler range or contact the Cema team today to discuss the right option for your business.
