Washroom facilities at construction sites update
The provincial government has announced changes to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation relating to washroom facilities at construction sites with 25 or more workers, effective October 1, 2024.
The official wording of the changes can be found on the province’s website (PDF).
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).
Below is an update on our implementation of these changes.
Guideline posted for public comment
To help employers prepare, WorkSafeBC has developed and posted the draft OHS Guideline G20.3.2, Washroom facilities required at specified construction sites. The guideline sets out how to do an assessment of what is practicable, as well as some factors to consider when determining if it is not practicable to provide flush toilets.
The guideline is available for public comment. The last day to submit comments and request revisions is November 29, 2024.
If you have questions or comments about the draft guideline, please email regpraconsult@worksafebc.com.
Webpage now available
A webpage with information and resources relating to the new requirements is available on our website at worksafebc.com/construction-washrooms.
Here you’ll find links to the guideline as well as to the official wording of the changes to the OHS Regulation. We will continue to add resources to the page throughout the fall, so check back regularly.
Resources now and forthcoming
- Updated OHS Regulation
- OHS Guideline
- Primer on key provisions
- Regulatory amendment: A primer on washroom facilities at construction sites: Outlines key requirements relating to the provision of flush toilets at construction sites where 25 or more workers will be present.
- Frequently asked questions
- Washroom facilities at construction sites: Frequently asked questions: This resource answers some of the common questions employers and workers may have about the new requirements.
For more information
Visit Washroom facilities at construction sites on worksafebc.com. If you still have questions, email stakeholderrelations@worsafebc.com, or call our Prevention Information Line at 1.888.621.7233.