The provincial government has announced changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation relating to washroom facilities at construction sites with 25 or more workers, effective October 1, 2024.
For more information, including official wording of the changes, see “Resources” below.
This follows WorkSafeBC’s consultation with employers, construction-sector associations, unions, and workers. Over the coming months, WorkSafeBC will continue to work with construction companies to ensure they are aware of the changes and able to implement the requirements (recognizing that some employers may require time to source the required facilities).
What it means for employers
Employers at construction sites with 25 or more workers must provide flush toilets, handwashing facilities, and clean washrooms.
- The flush toilets may be plumbed or connected to a holding tank. Chemical or other types of toilets can only be provided as an alternative if the employer can demonstrate it’s not practicable to comply with the requirement to provide flush toilets.
- The handwashing facilities must be in or near the enclosed space where toilets are situated.
- Washrooms must be maintained in proper working order and cleaned and sanitized regularly. Records of maintenance and cleaning activities must be kept for at least 30 days.
At a multiple-employer workplace, the duties of an employer also apply to the prime contractor.
Worker participation
Where possible, the employer should regularly consult with their joint health and safety committee and affected workers when implementing the new requirements. Everyone using the washroom facilities has an obligation to help to ensure their ongoing cleanliness and functionality. Workers should report any deficiencies to a supervisor or the employer.
Resources
For more information, see the following: