How many toilets should there be in your UK workplace?
The number of toilets required in a UK workplace depends on the number of employees and the ratio of male to female employees. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides the following guidance:
Number of employees |
Number of toilets |
Washbasins |
1-5 |
1 |
1 |
6-25 |
2 |
2 |
26-50 |
3 |
3 |
51-75 |
4 |
4 |
76-100 |
5 |
5 |
For workplaces with more than 100 employees, the HSE recommends that an additional toilet be provided for every 50 employees.
Separate toilet facilities should be provided for men and women, if possible. However, if this is not possible, mixed-use toilets can be provided, as long as each toilet is in a separate room with a lockable door.
In addition to toilets, workplaces must also provide washbasins with hot and cold running water, soap, and paper towels or hand dryers.
The HSE also recommends that workplaces provide additional toilet facilities for disabled employees and visitors.
It is important to note that these are just the minimum requirements. Employers may need to provide more toilets depending on the specific needs of their workplace. For example, if a workplace has a high turnover of employees, or if employees are likely to be working long hours, more toilets may be needed.
Employers should also consider the following factors when deciding how many toilets to provide:
- The size of the workplace
- The layout of the workplace
- The type of work employees do
- The level of risk in the workplace
- The number of employees who are disabled
- The number of visitors the workplace receives
If you are unsure how many toilets you need in your workplace, you should contact the HSE for advice.
Shop for UK toilet signs at The Sign Shed.