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OSHA 1926.51: Does a weekend security guard count toward our total headcount?

Hector V.asked 1 viewConstruction & Job SitesOsha 1926 51Long term rentalService frequencySecurity guard

Yes, a weekend security guard counts toward your total headcount for OSHA 1926.51 compliance. The OSHA construction sanitation standard applies to all employees on the worksite, including non-construction personnel like security guards. You must provide a portable toilet for that guard.

OSHA's rule is clear: it covers 'employees,' not just active construction workers. If your guard is on site for a full shift, they need access to a toilet. For one guard, that means at least one standard portable toilet or an ADA-compliant unit if you're clustering units elsewhere on site.

Placement and service: put the unit where the guard can reach it safely, on level ground near their post. Since it's one person for two days, you might get away with a midweek service instead of weekly, but check with your rental company, they'll know if the holding tank and deodorizer can last. Blocked access on service day means a missed trip and a bill.

Long-term sites: if you're renting for months, add the unit to your contract. It's cheaper than a violation. Vandalism happens on weekends, a deluxe unit with a lock might help.

Anyone run into this with night watchmen or weekend inspectors? How'd you handle it?

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Marcus B.Chicago, IL

Yes, a weekend security guard counts toward your total headcount for OSHA 1926.51 compliance. The OSHA construction sanitation standard applies to all employees on the worksite, including non-construction personnel like security guards. You must provide a portable toilet for that guard.

OSHA's rule is clear: it covers 'employees,' not just active construction workers. If your guard is on site for a full shift, they need access to a toilet. For one guard, that means at least one standard portable toilet or an ADA-compliant unit if you're clustering units elsewhere on site.

Placement and service: put the unit where the guard can reach it safely, on level ground near their post. Since it's one person for two days, you might get away with a midweek service instead of weekly, but check with your rental company, they'll know if the holding tank and deodorizer can last. Blocked access on service day means a missed trip and a bill.

Long-term sites: if you're renting for months, add the unit to your contract. It's cheaper than a violation. Vandalism happens on weekends, a deluxe unit with a lock might help.

Anyone run into this with night watchmen or weekend inspectors? How'd you handle it?

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