To Drink Or Not To Drink - Potable Vs Non-Potable Water

There’s nothing quite like a cold glass of water to quench your thirst - provided it comes from the right source.

We’re talking potable versus non-potable water.

Potable water means that the water has been treated for human consumption - non-potable water means it has not been treated and is unsafe for you to drink or cook in.

Griffith City Council supplies waters to properties across Griffith and surrounding areas - both potable and non-potable.

Property owners, particularly new owners and tenants need to be fully informed about whether non-potable water supplies are present on their property.

Council’s Water and Wastewater Manager Durgananda Chaudhary said non-potable water was untreated, raw water sourced from the Main Canal and it was essential that residents understand its limitations.

“This water should not be consumed or used for cooking, washing food, ice making, teeth cleaning, or bathing.

“It is strictly for uses such as toilet flushing, garden irrigation, laundry and domestic animals.”

The areas that receive non-potable water include:

• Griffith (non-potable supply for parks, gardens, and business customers); and

• Yenda (raw water non-potable supply).

As non-potable water hasn’t been disinfected, it poses a risk if consumed by humans.

People with both potable and non-potable water supplies on their properties should clearly mark non-drinking taps and make sure that visitors are made aware of them.

Non-potable water supplies have purple paint markings on them to make it easy to identify.

Real estate agents and landlords must notify new tenants or buyers about the presence of non-potable water.

Accommodation or function centres should also make sure their guests are aware of any taps that are not for drinking.

Businesses with taps connected to non-potable supplies should ensure they are clearly labelled, indicating “water not suitable for drinking”.

• Topics:

• Water
• Health & Wellbeing