New flush toilet rules at B.C. construction sites start Oct. 1 [Video]

What some B.C. construction workers describe as the worst aspect of their jobs will be coming to an end next month, the province announced.

Starting Oct. 1, construction sites with 25 workers or more will be required to have flushing toilets and hand-washing facilities, ending the reign of unsavory porta-potties.

“We all know how unpleasant port-a-potties can be, but this is actually a health-and-safety issue for construction workers,” said Labour Minister Harry Bains in a news release Thursday. “We have heard clearly from the building sector that it is an important issue for workers, and it contributes to the sector’s ability to attract and retain workers, including women.”

Premier David Eby first promised to address the washroom woes in the industry last October when speaking at the BC Building Trades Council, saying it was the union coalition’s advocacy that prompted the legislation.

According to Statistics Canada, more than 245,000 British …