Sanitation

Scope

OSHA’s sanitation requirements apply to all employers providing permanent places of employment. Note: Mobile crews and normally unattended work locations do not have to comply with the Toilet Facilities or Washing Facilities requirements, if employees working at these locations have transportation immediately available to nearby toilet facilities which meet the other requirements of this standard.

Regulatory citations

• 29 CFR 1910.141 — Sanitation

Key definitions

• Number of employees: Unless otherwise specified, the maximum number of employees present at any one time on a regular shift.
• Personal service room: A room used for activities not directly connected with the production or service function performed by the establishment. Such activities include, but are not limited to, first-aid, medical services, dressing, showering, toilet use, washing, and eating.
• Potable water: Water that meets the standards for drinking purposes of the State or local authority having jurisdiction, or water that meets the quality standards prescribed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141).
• Toilet facility: A fixture maintained within a toilet room for the purpose of defecation or urination, or both.
• Toilet room: A room maintained within or on the premises of any place of employment, containing toilet facilities for use by employees.
• Toxic material: A material in concentration or amount which exceeds the applicable limit established by a standard, such as 1910.1000 and 1910.1001 or, in the absence of an applicable standard, which is of such toxicity so as to constitute a recognized hazard that is causing or is likely to cause death or serious physical harm.
• Water closet: A toilet facility maintained within a toilet room for the purpose of both defecation and urination and which is flushed with water.
• Wet process: Any process or operation in a workroom which normally results in surfaces upon which employees may walk or stand becoming wet.

Summary of requirements

• Provide body soap or other appropriate cleansing agents convenient to the showers.
• Prohibit food or beverages from being stored or consumed in a toilet room or in any area exposed to a toxic material.
• Ensure the number, size, and location of food waste receptacles encourages their use and not result in overfilling.
• Keep all places of employment clean to the extent that the nature of the work allows.
• Keep restrooms and washrooms clean and sanitary.
• Provide potable water for drinking, washing and cooking. In addition, ensure that all outlets for water that are not suitable for drinking be clearly identified.