Ontario MOL launches construction washroom blitz

TORONTO — The Ontario government has launched an inspection blitz targeting inadequate women’s washrooms on construction sites.

Of more than 1,000 visits to date, Ministry of Labour inspectors have identified more than 125 workplaces in violation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, with the most common issues being no toilet provided, lack of privacy and other sanitation issues.

Minister of Labour Monte McNaughton has released a social media message inviting construction workers to post their own stories of “bathroom horror stories on the jobsite” on social media.

“This is something no one wants to talk about but impacts all of us in our workplaces,” said McNaughton. “I stand with you, our government stands with you and we’re going to make life better and safer for you.”

In 2022 ministry inspectors visited 14,000 construction projects and issued nearly 2,000 orders to upgrade washrooms for construction workers, “who are the everyday heroes building the future of our province, but it’s not enough,” said McNaughton.

“Everyone has the right to a clean and safe bathroom. I’m calling on all construction workers. I want to hear from you.”