Northern Ireland Water Service employees plan to go on strike next week over proposals to reform the agency, which workers fear may eliminate hundreds of jobs.
The move comes after members of the four unions voted for industrial action. They say attempts to engage the government in negotiations have failed.
The umbrella group for the unions said the industrial action will start with a one-day strike then work to rule.
Plans for a government company to take over from the existing Water Service could result in a loss of up to 700 jobs.
Bumper Graham, secretary to the Water Service Trade Unions, said consumers would not be affected by the strike.
"Our aim is not to in any way damage provision of services, and hopefully the public will see no adverse impact," Graham said.
"We are going to ensure emergency provisions are put in place, and the unions will guarantee there will be continuous supply during the dispute," he added.
Source: BBC News