Flush toilets on large construction sites in B.C. will come into effect on Oct. 1, 2024. Employers must also ensure washrooms are well-maintained, clean, ventilated and provide privacy.

Changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation will make it mandatory for employers at construction sites with 25 workers or more to provide flush toilets, hand-washing facilities and clean washrooms.

WorkSafeBC will work with construction companies during the next few months to ensure they are aware of the changes and understand what is required to comply. This approach will allow time for employers to source the required facilities.

The new requirement is for toilets that can be connected to a sewer system or holding tank, and use a flow of clean water or a mixture of clean water and chemicals to flush the bowl. They also require hand-washing facilities with soap and water, or other methods of hand-cleaning.

“We all know how unpleasant porta-potties can be, but this is actually a health-and-safety issue for construction workers,” said Labour Minister Harry Bains. “We have heard clearly from the building sector that it is an important issue for workers, and it contributes to the sector’s ability to attract and retain workers, including women.”

WorkSafeBC will issue guidelines, which will allow for flexibility if flush toilets are not feasible. However, the onus will be on the employer to provide a good reason for not being able to provide the facilities.

“This regulation addresses one of the most egregious and long-standing indignities that construction workers have had to face in their daily lives,” said Brynn Bourke, executive director of the B.C. Building Trades. “The requirement for flush toilets on large construction sites means workers building B.C.’s next generation of major infrastructure will have much-improved washroom facilities, along with running water for hand-washing”