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Making drinking water accessible to everyone: Inclusive, sustainable design

Water is fundamental to life and well-being, and it’s imperative that everyone should have access to clean drinking water to remain hydrated, focused, and engaged—which is why a T3 DDA compliant drinking water tap is essential.

 

However, sometimes the simple act of pouring a drink can be an effort, especially for those with disabilities. People in wheelchairs or who have reduced dexterity need to be able to easily access drinking water.

Difficulties and challenges in beverage access can include filling up a heavy kettle, turning a stiff tap faucet or using an integrated tap system where the buttons are out of reach.

Kettles can be difficult to lift

At Borg & Overström we understand the importance of water and the need for easy access to hydration. The design of Borg & Overström’s T2 and T3 integrated tap systems means that those with limited reach, dexterity and mobility can still self-serve safely and easily pour themselves a glass of chilled, refreshing water or a hot cup of tea, with easy access to the buttons at the base of this DDA compliant drinking water tap.

Kettles can be difficult to lift, often straining the limbs, which is particularly challenging for individuals in wheelchairs. Many hot taps have push buttons located on top or behind the tap unit, making them inaccessible for wheelchair users due to the elevated position. 

The T2 and T3 models feature an advanced design that simplifies self-service for beverages, with accessible low, level controls.

The soft touch controls are conveniently positioned at counter height, and in located directly in front on the tap.  This DDA compliant drinking water tap design with frontal and low-level positioning both, prevents accidental hand contact with hot water and allows easy access at an accessible height. This design eliminates the need to lift or pour boiling water with a steady hand —users can simply press a button to safely dispense water directly into a glass or cup placed under the tap. This effortless operation allows users with disabilities to maintain full independence in managing their hydration needs. 

Not only are the T2 and T3 integrated drinking water taps designed for inclusivity and ease of use, but the innovative design balances functional need with a beautiful aesthetic tap, ensuring people can safely and independently self-service without any need for extra accessibility parts or design changes. 

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) defines a disabled person as someone with a significant physical or mental impairment which has a long-term effect on their ability to perform everyday tasks. Introduced in 1995, it continues to apply in Northern Ireland. In England, Scotland, and Wales, the DDA was replaced by the Equality Act 2010, which requires businesses that offer goods or services to the public to make reasonable adjustments to remove barriers for people with disabilities. In the USA, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides similar protections, ensuring wheelchair users have access to drinking fountains and other facilities. 

Borg & Overström’s T2 and T3 integrated taps have been meticulously crafted to adhere to the DDA and Equality Law

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, states that an adequate supply of wholesome drinking water shall be provided for all persons in the workplace. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) also states that ‘Employers must provide welfare facilities and a working environment that’s healthy and safe for everyone in the workplace, including those with disabilities.’ Great employers provide great water for everyone, no matter their ability or preference over water type. 

By allowing easy access to self-serve beverages, both chilled and hot, the Borg & Overström’s T2 and T3 integrated taps have been meticulously crafted to adhere to the DDA and Equality Law, ensuring they’re compliant for those with disabilities and by providing safe and filtered water for all.

This DDA compliant drinking water tap offers employers, who are responsible for providing water for everyone in the workplace, a straightforward solution by ensuring taps are accessible to wheelchair users. 


Our drinking water dispensers are available through selected partners