What is Non-Potable Water?

Non-potable water is water that is not fit for human consumption. Essentially, it is water that has not been purified or treated according to human drinking standards. Sources of non-potable water include creeks, rainwater, lakes, air-conditioning condensate, and more. All of these water sources contain specific contaminants that can make it unfit for human consumption.

The term, “non-potable water” takes after the French word, “potable” that originates from the Latin word, potare meaning ‘to drink’. In simple terms, non-potable water, means water you cannot drink.

There are many things that you can use non-potable water for. In the workplace, non-potable water is often used for things like cooling machinery, flushing toilets, washing clothes or other materials, cleaning floors, and more. It is also commonly used for irrigation of fields and other related activities.

While not suitable for drinking, non-potable water can be used for a range of purposes:

• Watering plants
• Industrial coolants
• Flushing toilets
• Irrigation and more

It is also important to note that not all non-potable water is the same. Some non-potable water is quite clean and can be used for many things, while other non-potable water could be dirty or even toxic. The term is only used to designate whether humans can safely drink it or not.

In some situations, potable water will be recaptured so that it can be reused as non-potable water. For example, water that is used in a shower or washing hands can be captured and used in certain other areas. Looking for ways to capture and reuse water of any type can be a great way to help minimize waste in the facility while also benefiting the environment. With many places suffering from droughts around the world, it is often essential to make the best use of water possible. That starts with knowing the difference between potable and non-potable water.

What Is An Approved Source Of Potable Water?

An approved source of potable water means water that has been purified and deemed safe for human consumption. This includes the bottled water you drink, the public water system, or a private well that is regularly monitored to ensure it complies with safe drinking standards.

Additional Non-Potable Water facts:

• Non-potable water is water that is not suitable for drinking, cooking, or personal bathing due to its microbial, chemical, or physical properties. It may contain bacteria, viruses, toxins, or other contaminants that can pose health risks. Source: https://www.liquidimageco.com/what-is-non-potable-water/
• Non-potable water can be used for many purposes that do not require human contact or ingestion, such as irrigation, landscaping, cooling, construction, industrial processes, and toilet flushing. Source: https://www.sunrisespecialty.com/non-potable-water
• Non-potable water can also be recycled or reclaimed from wastewater treatment plants or process water streams for specific uses. Depending on the level of treatment, recycled water can be either potable or non-potable. Source: https://www.covac.co.uk/blog/the-difference-between-potable-and-non-potable-water
• Non-potable water can also come from natural sources, such as stormwater, rainwater, snow, or hail. Stormwater can cause water pollution, erosion, sedimentation, and flooding if not properly managed. Source: https://www.sunrisespecialty.com/non-potable-water
• Non-potable water should be clearly labeled and separated from potable water sources to prevent accidental or intentional misuse. Non-potable water should also be tested regularly for quality and safety. Source: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/hazards/hazardous-exposures/non-potable-water
• Non-potable water can pose hazards to workers who are exposed to it, such as skin irritation, eye infection, respiratory problems, or gastrointestinal illness. Workers should use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and hygiene practices when handling non-potable water. Source: Safety and Health Safety Shares