There is a draft regulatory change relating to plumbed washrooms on construction sites that is now out for public consultation.
The availability and maintenance of washroom facilities on construction sites has been a subject of much discussion. To address the issue, the Ministry of Labour asked WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors to consider amending the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (the Regulation) to require the provision of flush toilets on construction sites with 25 or more workers.
The Ministry has requested that the amended regulation be in place by May 1, 2024. The intent behind this change is to ensure that facilities on construction sites fulfill certain expectations of hygiene and sanitation in the workplace.
Draft regulatory change
The proposed amendment to Section 4.85 of the Regulation would establish a threshold (25 workers) for the requirement of plumbed facilities on a construction site. If it is not practicable to provide plumbed facilities, the employer must provide another type of washroom facility that meets the requirements set out in the Regulation. Additionally, the employer must maintain a record of the maintenance, cleaning, and sanitization of the washroom facility.
How to participate
A public hearing regarding the drafted changes will be held January 10, 2024, with the consultation period closing January 12. To participate, please visit Current Public Hearings & Consultations.
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