What OSHA actually says
OSHA's construction sanitation table is based on employee count, not a universal one-unit-per-10-worker rule. Table D-1 in 29 CFR 1926.51(c)(1) specifies:
| Employees | Minimum facilities in Table D-1 |
|---|---|
| 20 or fewer | One toilet facility |
| 20 or more | One toilet seat and one urinal per 40 workers |
| 200 or more | One toilet seat and one urinal per 50 workers |
These labels follow the regulation, including its overlapping 20-person boundary. The table describes facilities, not simply a count of portable shells; check the fixture configuration. OSHA also requires at least one toilet under temporary field conditions and describes an exception for mobile crews with ready transportation to nearby facilities.
Minimum facilities versus a workable rental plan
A planning allowance such as one portable unit per 10 workers may support a proposed service schedule. It is not the ratio written in Table D-1. Long shifts, peak attendance and time between cleaning visits affect how many units remain usable.
Ask your project safety lead to confirm the compliance calculation. Then give dispatch the headcount on the busiest shift, workdays, expected overtime and access for servicing. A site that doubles its crew for a concrete pour needs a plan for that peak, not just its average staffing.
Washing and accessibility are separate decisions
Section 1926.51(f) covers washing facilities and lavatories, including sanitary condition and supplies. Do not assume sanitizer alone resolves every washing requirement. Review the work activities and available facilities with your safety lead.
Accessibility needs, unit placement and routes to facilities should also be checked for the specific project. Tell dispatch about workers or visitors needing accessible facilities and provide the required unit specifications before booking.
Information to send with a restroom request
- Peak on-site headcount and shift length, including other crews sharing the units.
- Start date, expected duration and weekend work.
- A site plan or placement photo, with an accessible service route.
- Existing permanent facilities, any restrictions on their use and required accessible units.
- Washing facilities needed and whether water or other site connections are available.
- Requested cleaning frequency and a contact who can report changed demand.
Keep the plan current
Confirm the servicing schedule and what is included in the written quote. Keep the access route clear. If use rises or facilities become unsuitable between visits, contact dispatch to review additional units or service. A rental quote is not a compliance sign-off.
For rental options, see portable restroom service. For the broader delivery plan, use the jobsite service planning checklist.