21: The Importance of Clean and Functioning Washrooms at Worksites

Transmit Safety: Occupational Health And Safety on All Frequencies

In today’s episode of Transmit Safety, Aimee highlights the importance of clean and functioning washrooms at worksites for worker health and morale.

Going to the washroom is something we all do, every single day. Therefore, having access to clean and functioning washrooms on-site might seem like a no-brainer. This is very often not the case. I have lost count of the number of sites I have been to where there either was no access to a washroom or the washroom was nasty.
I have heard stories firsthand of women who don’t go to the bathroom all day or of designated corners of worksites that men use as a toilet because there is no on-site access to a washroom. This is not only demeaning but it also leads to a whole host of health concerns.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Inclusivity in washrooms
• The impact of washrooms on worker morale
• Clean and functioning washrooms relate directly to worker health
• Washroom design should be included in the pre-job planning phase and budget of a project
• 3 of the most important features of a washroom - accessibility, hygiene, and privacy
• The need for education and needs assessments around washrooms

The Transmit Safety Podcast is here to help health and safety practitioners achieve a holistic approach to workplace health and safety so they can become impactful leaders and put the value of safety into action.

Resources and links

Today's episode was sponsored by Transmit Safety, a consulting business where I help streamline and simplify health and safety management systems through education, program development, audits, and coaching.
If you'd like to join the next cycle of Upgrade and Optimize, my group coaching program, go to: transmitsafety.com/program
Want to receive weekly content that will help you become the Health & Safety leader you want to be and stay up to date with me and Sir Reginald? Plug into the Transmit Safety Newsletter here.

Quotes from this episode
“How can we create a welcoming and accepting workplace environment to all of our workers and then not provide adequate washroom facilities?”
“When workers have access to clean and well-maintained washrooms on site, it sends a message that their basic needs are being taken care of seriously, and that their well-being is a priority for the company.”
If workers don't have access to clean and functioning washrooms, they may be more likely to develop health issues, dehydration, urinary tract infections, or maybe depending on the time period that they have been without adequate washrooms leads to more serious conditions like kidney stones. These health issues can be uncomfortable, painful, and can increase their amount of sick days.”

Connect with Aimee Arsenault
Aimee Arsenault is a CRSP and CHSC. She is the founder of Transmit Safety, a business that helps you simplify and streamline health & safety management systems.
Linkedin: Aimee Arsenault
Instagram: @transmit.safety
Twitter: @transmitsafety
Website: transmitsafety.com