Both potable and non-potable water is used at workplaces for different processes. Non-potable water is water which should not be drunk. This includes effluent, greywater, water in lakes, rivers and dams, rainwater and ground water.
Non-potable water may contain biological or chemical hazards, such as bacteria, viruses, worms, and metal residues. But it can still be used if treated and approved by the ACT Department of Health.
Most non-potable water is used in locations where the public cannot contact the water. It is used for landscaping, concrete batching, dust suppression, vehicular wash down at construction sites, and drip-irrigation of non-food crops.
If non-potable water is used, appropriate signage is required stating the fact. Workers and supervisors need to ensure potentially hazardous water is used safely and handled, stored and transported correctly.