Safety Matters - Rail, Tram and Bus Union of NSW

Toilet requirements in different types of workplaces
For workplaces within buildings, the Building Code of Australia outlines the
ratio of toilets to employees, and the specifications for toilets. In most cases,
employers are expected to provide their own toilet facilities for employees,
rather that relying on access to external public toilets.
Separate toilets should be provided for male and female employees, and should
be clearly signposted. However, in some small businesses with only a few
employees (e.g. less than 10) a unisex facility may be provided, as long as the
privacy of male and female employees can be assured. In such situations, one
toilet, one washbasin and a means of disposing of sanitary items is required.
Toilets must be accessible, preferably located inside a building, or as close as
possible to the workplace, to control any risk to employees’ safety. They should
be installed to prevent any odours escaping.
In multiple storey buildings, toilets should be located on at least every second
storey. Where shops are located in a shopping complex, the owner of the
complex should provide sufficient toilets to satisfy the needs of all the shops.
Larger employers within shopping complexes, such as department stores and
supermarkets would reasonably be expected to provide their own toilets to
facilitate quick access for employees. Further guidance is provided in the
Building Code of Australia.
Maintenance of amenities
Amenities must be maintained on a regular basis. This will involve ensuring
that amenities are cleaned and any necessary repairs are carried out promptly.
Regular maintenance should also include regular checks to ensure amenities are
up to standard. These checks can be undertaken as part of OHS consultation
arrangements.
Safety Matters A Guide for Workplace OHS Representatives
SECTION FOUR
RAIL
TRAM AND BUS
25
OHS Factsheets
U N
I O N