Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00394:body:0:p60
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00394
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 261556–264396

out at the workplace
    * the nature of the hazards at the workplace
    * the size, location and nature of the workplace
    * the number and composition of the workers at the workplace.
Affected workers must also be consulted when making decisions about the adequacy of facilities for the welfare of workers.

Deciding what facilities are required
To decide what facilities are required at any particular construction workplace, a person conducting a business or undertaking must consider:
    * the nature of the work being carried out. For example, if workers are required to change into protective clothing to use hazardous chemicals, it may be reasonably practicable to provide change rooms
    * the size, location and nature of the workplace. For example:
       * where there are existing suitable facilities available (e.g. a factory shut-down), arrange with the owner to use these facilities
       * where the construction work will be carried out in a remote or isolated area that is not connected to essential services, portable toilets, drinking water and washing facilities should be provided
    * the number and composition of the workers at the workplace. For example:
       * facilities need to be accessible during the hours that shift workers are working
       * where there are both male and female workers, separate toilet, washing and shower facilities may be required.
Other factors that should be considered:
    * Toilets, washing and shower facilities must not be used for any other purposes, for example storing of dangerous goods. Closets and urinals should be washed and kept in a clean, hygienic condition.
    * Adequate washing facilities that are suitably drained, and wash basins/troughs should be supplied with hot and cold running water.
    * Personal cleaning products such as soap and towels or air dryers should be supplied.

Number of toilets
For workplaces within buildings, the National Construction Code of Australia sets out the ratio of toilets to the number of workers, and the specifications for toilets. Generally, separate toilets should be provided in workplaces where there are both male and female workers. However, one unisex toilet may be provided in workplaces with both male and female workers where:
    * the total number of people who normally work at the workplace is 10 or less
    * there are two or less workers of one gender.
For example, a construction workplace with two male and eight female workers or with one female and three male workers could have a unisex toilet because there are 10 or fewer workers in total and two or fewer workers of one gender.
Any female toilet, including unisex facilities, should have adequate means for disposing of sanitary items.
For all other construction workplaces, separate toilets should be provided using the following ratios: