Portable Washrooms on Ontario Construction Sites: What Employers Need to Know
Providing adequate washroom facilities on construction sites isn’t just about convenience—it’s the law. In Ontario, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and Construction Projects Regulation (O. Reg. 213/91) set out clear requirements for employers. Failure to comply can result in fines, work stoppages, or reputational damage.
At Monarch Safety Group, we help construction companies like yours understand and meet these obligations, ensuring worker health, dignity, and compliance.
Key notes
- Worker-to-Toilet Ratio: The number of toilets required depends on the number of workers and the type of toilet. For water-flush toilets, typically 1 toilet per 15 workers is required; for other types like chemical toilets, 1 per 10 workers is standard.
- Female Facilities: On sites with five or more toilets, at least one toilet must be designated for female workers, including sanitary disposal and proper signage.
- Cleanliness and Accessibility: Toilets must be readily accessible, kept sanitary, and accompanied by wash-up facilities (soap, running water or sanitizer, and hand-drying options). Facilities should ideally be within 90 meters of the work area.
Legal Requirements for Washrooms on Construction Sites
Under Ontario’s regulations, every construction project must provide accessible, sanitary, and adequate washroom facilities for workers. Key requirements include:
- Number of Facilities:
- At least one washroom for every 10 workers.
- Separate facilities required for men and women if both are employed on site.
- Type of Facilities:
- Flush toilets and running water are required where reasonably possible.
- If not practical, portable washrooms (chemical toilets) may be used, but they must be properly maintained.
- Maintenance:
- Washrooms must be kept clean, well-lit, and supplied with toilet paper.
- Handwashing facilities with clean water, soap, and towels (or hand sanitizer if water isn’t available) are mandatory.
| Number of Workers | Water Flush Toilets (1 per 15 workers) | Other Toilets (1 per 10 workers) |
|---|---|---|
| 1–10 | 1 | 1 |
| 11–20 | 2 | 2 |
| 21–30 | 3 | 3 |
| 31–40 | 4 | 4 |
| 41–45 | 5 | 5 |
| 46–60 | 6 | 6 |
| 61–75 | 7 | 7 |
| 76–90 | 8 | 8 |
| 91–105 | 9 | 9 |
| 106+ | 10 + 1 per additional 15 workers | 10 + 1 per additional 15 workers |
Note: For sites with 5 or more toilets, at least one must be designated for female workers only, where reasonably possible.
Why Washrooms Matter for Safety and Productivity
- Worker Health: Unsanitary conditions increase the risk of illness and infection.
- Morale & Retention: Providing clean facilities shows respect for your workforce.
- Legal Compliance: Inspections often check washroom facilities first—non-compliance can shut a project down.
- Reputation: Clients and partners expect professional site standards, including proper worker amenities.
Best Practices for Employers
- Place portable washrooms close to active work areas, but away from hazards.
- Schedule regular servicing (at least once a week, or more often for busy sites).
- Ensure washrooms are accessible in all weather conditions.
- Keep extra supplies (toilet paper, sanitizer, soap) stocked at all times.
- Communicate clearly to workers about washroom locations and maintenance schedules.
How Monarch Safety Group Can Help
We assist contractors and project managers across Ontario with:
- Developing site-specific safety plans that include washroom compliance.
- Conducting site inspections to verify OHSA requirements are being met.
- Training supervisors and crews on worker health & safety rights.
- Supporting COR® and ISO 45001 compliance, which includes worker facilities.
Final Word
Washrooms on construction sites aren’t a “nice-to-have”—they’re a legal requirement and a core part of worker health and safety. With proper planning and maintenance, you can protect your team, your reputation, and your project’s bottom line.
If you need help developing or reviewing your site-specific health and safety program, contact Monarch Safety Group today. We’ll ensure your projects meet Ontario standards—and keep your workforce safe, healthy, and productive.