My mom uses a walker and our only bathroom is getting gutted for 5 weeks. Is a standard porta potty going to work for her?

Question

We're redoing our one bathroom starting next month and the contractor says plan on about five weeks with no toilet in the house. That's fine for me and my husband, but my mom lives with us. She's 81, uses a walker, and needs something to hold onto when she sits and stands.

I looked inside a regular unit at a job site down the street and I honestly don't see how she gets in there with the walker, let alone turns around. There's also that step up at the door.

The driveway is flat concrete and about 20 feet from the side door, so access shouldn't be a problem. Should I just ask for an ADA unit for the whole stretch, or is there something in between? And would one unit be enough for three adults, or do we need her to have her own?

Sam O. · Answer

No, a standard portable toilet will not work for your mom. You need an ADA-compliant portable toilet. An ADA unit has a wider door, more interior space for a wheelchair or walker, grab bars, and a lower step or ramp. The 2010 ADA Standards require a 60-inch turning circle inside, which lets someone with a walker maneuver.

Ask for one ADA unit for your mom. For three adults over five weeks, one unit is enough if serviced weekly. The [OSHA construction standard](https://portapotty.forum/glossary/osha-1926-51/) requires one toilet per 20 workers, and you have fewer people. Weekly service is the norm, but in hot weather or with more users, you might need service twice a week. Tell the rental company about your mom's needs so they bring the right unit.

Place the ADA unit on your flat driveway near the side door. The driver will need truck access to that spot for delivery and weekly pumping. An ADA unit costs more than a standard one due to its size and features, but it is necessary for safety.

My mom uses a walker and our only bathroom is getting gutted for 5 weeks. Is a standard porta potty going to work for her?

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