Hygienic drinking water fountains for public spaces
Climate change poses new challenges for local authorities: rising temperatures, more frequent heat waves and a growing number of heat-related health problems are placing a strain on public health services. In response, the German government passed a groundbreaking bill in August 2023 that enshrines the provision of tap water through drinking water fountains in public places as part of municipal services.
The Federal Ministry for the Environment is calling for the nationwide expansion of public drinking water access to prevent dehydration and protect public health. This is where our drinking water fountains come in – as a reliable, hygienic and sustainable solution for modern urban development.
The installation of drinking water fountains makes an important contribution to climate adaptation and public health care. They reduce the consumption of disposable plastic bottles, lower CO2 emissions by eliminating transport routes and offer citizens free access to high-quality drinking water – particularly important in times of rising temperatures and increasing heat waves.
Why are more drinking water dispenser needed?
Design your city to be progressive and environmentally conscious.
Cities and municipalities face the challenge of finding sustainable and innovative solutions to meet the demands of modern society. BEULCO drinking water fountains offer an excellent opportunity to achieve these goals. By installing these fountains, local authorities can not only improve public health and promote environmental protection, but also strengthen inclusion and positive perception. In addition, the robust and durable fountains offer long-term cost savings.
- Improved public health: Without access to clean drinking water, the risk of dehydration and other health problems increases.
- Environmental protection: The opportunity to reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles and thus make an important contribution to environmental protection.
- Inclusion: The opportunity to make public spaces barrier-free and inclusive is being seized.
- Positive perception: Towns and communities that invest in sustainable and innovative solutions are perceived as progressive and environmentally conscious.
- Long-term cost savings: The robust and durable construction of BEULCO fountains reduces maintenance and replacement costs in the long term.
The way to the public drinking water dispenser
Focus on hygiene – from planning to operation
When constructing a public drinking water fountain, hygiene is paramount. It is a consistent factor throughout the planning, construction and operation phases – as the basis for a safe and sustainable drinking water supply. Only through clearly structured processes and compliance with all legal requirements can a drinking water fountain be operated reliably and hygienically in the long term.
This also includes identifying potential risks at an early stage and taking appropriate measures to minimise them. Close coordination between all parties involved is crucial to ensure a smooth and standard-compliant process.
Building a drinking water fountain doesn't have to be complicated. With the right partners, the project can be implemented efficiently and in compliance with legal requirements.
1. Decision & priorities:
Hygiene, safety, costs and design form the basis of any planning.
2. Early involvement:
Water suppliers, planning offices and specialist companies provide support in selecting a location and technical implementation.
3. Application to the health authority:
Required at least 4 weeks before commissioning.
4. Construction & implementation:
Installation in accordance with technical and hygiene standards.
5. Monitoring & operation:
Regular sampling and maintenance ensure long-term water quality.
Important requirements
Compliance with drinking water regulations and monitoring by the health authority.
We recommend compliance with the requirements of DVGW Merkblatt W 274.
Use of materials suitable for drinking water only.
Protection from external influences and barrier-free use.
Regular self-checks and documentation.
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Laws and regulations
Which laws and regulations apply to public drinking water dispenser?
EU Drinking Water Directive: This directive obliges Member States to provide citizens with access to high-quality drinking water in public spaces. The directive has been transposed into German law and forms the basis for the provision of drinking water fountains. The law came into force on 12 January 2023 [1]. For more information, see our blog post.
Water Resources Act (WHG): The Water Resources Act was amended to comply with the requirements of the EU Drinking Water Directive. It stipulates that the provision of tap water through drinking water fountains in public places is a public service. The Act came into force on 12 January 2023 [2]. Details can also be found in our blog post.
DVGW Code W 274: This code from the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water (DVGW) contains technical requirements and recommendations for the planning, construction and operation of public drinking water fountains. It ensures that the fountains are operated safely and hygienically.
Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV): The Drinking Water Ordinance regulates the quality of drinking water in Germany. It contains specifications for monitoring and ensuring drinking water quality, which also apply to public drinking water fountains. The revised Drinking Water Ordinance came into force on 24 June 2023 [3].
Infection Protection Act (IfSG): Amendments to the Infection Protection Act support the implementation of the EU Drinking Water Directive, particularly with regard to risk assessment and risk management in catchment areas of abstraction points for drinking water production. The Act came into force on 12 January 2023 [4].
Do you require assistance?
We are available for a non-binding consultation.
FAQs about drinking water dispensers in public spaces
Do you have any questions? We have the answers.
BEULCO drinking water dispensers offer a sustainable solution for improving public health and environmental protection. They are robust, durable and vandal-proof, enabling long-term cost savings. They also promote inclusion through their barrier-free design and contribute to a positive perception of cities and communities.
By providing clean drinking water in public places, the fountains help to reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles, which makes an important contribution to environmental protection.
Yes, the fountains are made of durable materials and are highly stable, which protects them from vandalism and mechanical and weather-related influences.
All materials that come into contact with drinking water are suitable for drinking water in accordance with UBA specifications, which guarantees the cleanliness and safety of the water.
The touch protection around the outlet tap increases hygiene protection directly at the water outlet. If the outlet is dirty, this can be seen and removed.
The installation must comply with the specifications of DVGW Merkblatt W 274 in order to ensure safe and hygienic drinking water extraction. This includes the use of materials suitable for drinking water and compliance with UBA specifications.
The fountains can be installed in various public places such as market squares, shopping streets, event venues, parks, sports fields and hiking trails.
The installation must comply with the requirements of DVGW Merkblatt W 274, which summarises all relevant standards and specifications for the construction of drinking water dispensers.
Thanks to their robust construction, the wells are durable and require minimal maintenance. Regular inspections and cleaning contribute to long-term functionality.
Cities and municipalities benefit from improved public health, promotion of environmental protection, creation of accessible and inclusive public spaces, and long-term cost savings.