Porta Potty Forum
Log inAsk a question

Homeowners moved in early and said my crew can use their powder room. Can I send the job site porta potty back?

Brad L.asked 1 viewConstruction & Job SitesConstruction sitesOsha 1926 51Standard unitHome and long termPickup

Custom home we've been on since spring is down to trim, paint and punch list. The owners' lease ran out so they moved in last weekend, a month ahead of final. Nice people. The wife told my guys they're welcome to use the downstairs powder room so we can get the standard unit off her front lawn before the family photos at Thanksgiving.

It's four of us most days, sometimes a painter or two on top. My worry is twofold. Does a bathroom inside a house we're still working on actually count as a toilet for the crew under OSHA 1926.51, or does it have to be a separate facility? And if she changes her mind two weeks from now after the drywall guy tracks mud across her new floors, I'm stuck. Anyone done this? Get it in writing, or just keep the unit till we're out?

1 answer

Sorted by votes
0
Ray M.Dallas, TX

No, you cannot send the portable toilet back. The home's powder room does not meet OSHA 1926.51 requirements for a construction site toilet. OSHA requires the toilet facility to be separate and designated for the crew. A homeowner's bathroom is not a controlled or dedicated facility, and OSHA inspectors will not count it. For four to six workers, you still need at least one portable toilet on site.

Keep the unit until the job is done. Homeowners often change their minds, especially after a mess. If you remove the toilet and she later revokes access, you violate OSHA rules and risk fines. You also lose work time while waiting for a redelivery. The rental cost for an extra month is less than an OSHA penalty or a crew standing around. Place the unit discreetly, but do not remove it.

Your answer

Log in or create a free account to answer this question.

Related questions