News & Events Washroom Facilities at Construction Sites Update | Effective October 1, 2024

The BC government has updated the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation to improve washroom facilities on construction sites with 25 or more workers, effective October 1, 2024. The full text of the regulatory changes is available on the province’s website (PDF). 

Following consultations with employers, construction-sector associations, unions, and workers conducted by WorkSafeBC, efforts will continue over the next months to ensure construction companies are well-informed and prepared to comply with the new requirements. WorkSafeBC recognizes that some employers may need additional time to procure the necessary facilities.

Below is an update on our implementation of these changes.

To help employers prepare:
WorkSafeBC has developed and posted the draft OHS Guideline G20.3.2, Washroom Facilities required at specified construction sites.

This guideline outlines practical assessments and considerations for situations where providing flush toilets may not be feasible.

The public is invited to review and comment on the guideline until November 29, 2024. For feedback, please contact regpraconsult@worksafebc.com.

New resources now available:

A webpage with information and resources relating to the new requirements is available on 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.

Coming this Fall

• Updated OHS Regulation: Effective October 1, 2024, we will revise section 20 of the OHS Regulation to reflect the approved amendments.
• Construction Site Washroom Primer: An overview will be provided outlining the standards for clean and well-maintained washroom facilities on sites with 25 or more workers.
• FAQ Resource: In anticipation of inquiries, a Frequently Asked Questions resource is being developed.

For additional information, please visit the Washroom facilities at construction sites on worksafebc.com, email stakeholder relations at worsafebc.com, or contact the Prevention Information Line at 1.888.621.7233.