BC Construction Site Washroom Rules: Toilets & Handwashing Explained

Under current WorkSafeBC rules, a specified construction site is one where 25 or more workers will be present at any time during the project. Those sites must have sufficient flush toilets where practicable, plus handwashing facilities and clean, maintained washrooms. Chemical or other toilets may be used when providing flush toilets is not practicable.

Acme Services provides portable toilet and washroom rentals across British Columbia service areas. Call 236-996-2122 or 778-908-5931 to discuss service availability and site details.

What counts as a specified construction site

Temporary site services work best when access, sanitation and site boundaries are planned together.

WorkSafeBC defines a specified construction site as a construction project where 25 or more workers will be present at any time during the undertaking of the project.

Flush toilets are the starting requirement

For specified construction sites, employers must ensure sufficient flush toilets are readily available. If that is not practicable, sufficient chemical or other types of toilets must be provided.

Handwashing and cleanliness are part of the rule

Construction support may involve several coordinated services depending on the project.

Each toilet must be maintained, cleaned and sanitized as needed, and a handwashing facility must be located within or close to the enclosed toilet space.

Maintenance records matter

WorkSafeBC requires records of maintenance and cleaning actions for the most recent 30 days at specified construction sites.

What about smaller or non-plumbed workplaces?

WorkSafeBC's general washroom rule says that when plumbed facilities cannot be provided because of the workplace or the work, employers must provide access to portable washroom and handwashing facilities or make other reasonable arrangements.

Official Guidance & Sources

WorkSafeBC — Washroom facilities at construction sites →

WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation — Part 20 construction washrooms →

Local Service Areas

Surrey Service Area →

Langley Township Service Area →

Fraser Valley Service Area →

Frequently Asked Questions

Do BC construction sites with 25 or more workers need flush toilets?

WorkSafeBC requires sufficient flush toilets at specified construction sites where practicable. Chemical or other toilets may be used if flush toilets are not practicable.

Are handwashing facilities required?

Yes. At specified construction sites, a handwashing facility must be within or close to the enclosed toilet area.

Do cleaning records need to be kept?

Yes. WorkSafeBC requires records covering at least the most recent 30 days for maintenance and cleaning actions at specified construction sites.

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For service planning, availability or booking, contact Acme Services with the property or site address, requested service, timing and access details.

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