Instant Toilets & Showers are proud to be involved with the National Code of Practice for Portable Toilets an initiative of the Hire and Rental Association. The code of practice is designed to bring uniformity to the supply of portable toilets in a variety of situations including events and work sites. The code will also provide guidelines for the numbers of toilets to be provided along with recommending servicing intervals and procedures.
Instant Toilets & Showers welcomes the development of the code and hopes that all states will adopt the code of Practice once it is finalised.
Today we have been advised of the following from the Victorian Health Department, which is a great step towards the code being accepted by all states.
“The Department of Health advises that the Guidelines for portable toilet systems, 1989 (the guidelines) have been withdrawn.
The withdrawal of the guidelines is inline with the government’s desire to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden.
The Hire and Rental Industry Association of Australia has advised the department that it is currently drafting a code of practice to manage the use of portable toilets. The department supports the development of this code of practice.
It should be noted that the guidelines previously prohibited the use of recirculating portable toilets due to concerns around potential public health impacts. There is no scientific evidence to indicate the use of these toilets pose a risk to public health. Therefore, there are no public health grounds to prohibit the use of recirculating portable toilets. It should also be noted that recirculating portable toilets have previously been approved for use in the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada and the USA.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Code of Practice for Portable Toilets?
The National Code of Practice establishes minimum standards for the use of portable toilets across various settings, including construction sites and events. Developed by the Hire and Rental Industry Association of Australia (HRIA), it provides guidelines on the number of toilets required, servicing intervals, and maintenance procedures to ensure hygiene and safety.
Why was the National Code of Practice introduced?
The code was introduced to standardise the provision and maintenance of portable toilets, ensuring consistent hygiene and safety standards nationwide. It aims to address the necessity for mobile sanitary facilities in areas lacking permanent restroom amenities, especially during events and construction activities.
How does the National Code of Practice affect portable toilet providers?
Portable toilet providers are responsible for complying with the standards set forth in the National Code of Practice. This includes adhering to guidelines on toilet construction, servicing frequency, and maintenance to meet health and safety regulations.
What are the benefits of adhering to the National Code of Practice for consumers?
For consumers, adherence to the code ensures the provision of high-quality portable toilets that meet safety and hygiene standards. This leads to a more comfortable and secure experience for users at events and worksites.
Have all Australian states adopted the National Code of Practice for Portable Toilets?
While the code has been developed for nationwide adoption, its implementation may vary across states. For instance, the Victorian Health Department has withdrawn previous guidelines and supports the development of the HRIA’s code. It’s advisable to check with local regulatory bodies for specific state adoptions and requirements.
Managing Director at Instant Toilets & Showers
Scott Rawson is the Managing Director of Instant Products Group, a specialist group of companies that offer portable building solutions, including sea containers, transportable offices, and portable sanitation products. With more than 20 years of experience in various management positions and a finalist in the WA Business News 40 under 40 awards in 2013, Scott is a highly motivated entrepreneur that has a passion for designing products to suit the needs of individual markets. From the creation of Instant Products Group over 20 years ago, he has successfully grown the group into a multi-million dollar corporation and his success is widely recognised in Western Australia. Scott is dedicated to expanding Instant Products Group nationally and providing high-quality products to a range of sectors, including mining, engineering, property development, and government.