Portable Toilet Hire: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Arranging portable toilet hire can sometimes seem like a very straightforward part of setting up a construction site, but there are several factors that can definitely be overlooked. Workers on site, servicing arrangements and accessibility are all details that need to be right, as they are essential for maintaining suitable welfare standards.
At Davlav, we understand how important reliable portable toilets are to the daily running of a site. Whilst every project has different requirements, there are common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary problems.
So, what should you be looking out for?
1. Underestimating How Many Toilets Are Needed
First, a common mistake when arranging portable toilet hire is failing to account for the number of people who will be using the facilities.
The number of toilets required ultimately depends on several factors, such as workforce size, working hours, and how frequently the units are serviced. A smaller workforce will have different requirements than a busier site with more people working.
Underestimating demand can lead to overcrowded facilities and potential difficulties maintaining suitable hygiene standards.
Before arranging your hire, it is recommended that you establish how many people are expected on site and also consider how usage might vary throughout the working week.
2. Overlooking Access for Servicing
Regular servicing is an important part of portable toilet hire, but it’s certainly something that can be overlooked when deciding where the units are to be positioned.
We provide weekly servicing to help maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of our portable toilets throughout the hire period. This includes waste removal, cleaning and replenishing essential supplies.
If servicing vehicles cannot safely access the units, routine maintenance can become more difficult. Whether it’s restricted entrances, machinery that’s in the way, or even changing site layouts, there are always potential obstacles that do need avoiding.
When planning your construction site welfare, consider access for both workers and servicing teams. A suitable location should allow the toilets to remain accessible throughout the hire period, not just when they’re first delivered.
3. Failing to Plan for Workforce Changes
With construction projects, workforce changes can sometimes occur. As work progresses, additional contractors may arrive, or some may leave, and the number of people on site can fluctuate considerably.
An important consideration with portable toilet hire is recognising that the requirements established at the beginning of the project may not always remain suitable throughout.
For example, a site that initially accommodates a small groundwork team may later require additional toilet facilities as construction activity increases.
Reviewing workforce numbers regularly allows site managers to identify when additional portable toilets may be required, or when the number of units can be reduced as activity on site slows down.
4. Choosing an Unsuitable Location
Where toilets are positioned can be just as important as how many are provided.
Units should be easily accessible to workers, positioned on suitable ground and located away from any site hazards.
Placing toilets too far from working areas can also create problems, especially on larger construction projects. No one would want to travel significant distances just to use the toilet.
When organising portable toilet hire, it is worth considering how the site will develop over time. A clear area during earlier stages of the construction may later be needed for machinery, materials, or additional working space.
Thinking ahead can help prevent unnecessary relocations and maintain access to essential construction site welfare throughout.
5. Leaving Arrangements Until the Last Minute
Organising portable toilet hire is something that should be considered well before construction work begins. Leaving arrangements until the last minute can create difficulties with delivery schedules, site access, and ensuring the correct number of units is available.
For site managers, planning ahead means there is time to confirm the number of portable toilets required, arrange delivery and establish suitable locations for the units. It also allows any access restrictions to be addressed before equipment arrives on site.
Getting Portable Toilet Hire Right
Good construction site welfare does however mean more than just having toilets available. It involves understanding how the site operates, anticipating changes and ensuring the facilities remain suitable throughout the project.
At Davlav, we provide a range of portable toilets to meet the requirements of construction sites of different sizes, supported by regular servicing and maintenance.
If you’re planning an upcoming project or reviewing your existing arrangements, contact our team to discuss your requirements and find out how we can help.