Review of toilet provision
On 31 October 2020, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick launched a review of toilet provision for women and men.
The government says evidence shows increasing numbers of publicly accessible toilets are being converted into ‘gender neutral’ facilities, causing problems for women and the elderly. The review will also consider signage, which it suggests should be clearer and use sex-specific language.
The government points out that women often face queues for toilets or don’t have access to appropriate facilities. Over recent years there has also been a trend towards ‘gender neutral’ toilets, which is against legislation where public authorities have a duty to provide safe spaces for women in lavatories in buildings.
The technical review, led by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, will consider the ratio of female toilets versus the number for men, given the need for women to use cubicles, and will address the misconception that removing sex-specific toilets is a requirement of equality legislation. It will also take into account the need to ensure there is fair provision of accessible and unisex toilets for people with disabilities and families with children.
Robert Jenrick said: “I have launched a review to ….make sure that women can expect a sense of dignity, security and safety when using facilities. We want to maintain safeguards that protect women and the proper provision of separate toilets, which has long been a regulatory requirement, should be retained and improved.”
The review will gather views from interested parties as well as calling on the technical knowledge of industry experts. When it is concluded, as well as providing clearer guidance, the government will consider updating the building regulations or building standards to specify the number of toilets provided for each sex.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Accessibility in the built environment.
- Approved Document G.
- Approved Document H.
- Approved Document M.
- Bathroom definition.
- Changing places.
- Equality Act.
- Inclusive design.
- Lifetime Homes Design Guide (EP 100).
- Lifetime homes.
- People with disabilities.
- Installed level access shower.
- Sanitaryware.
- Sanitary accommodation.
- Water closet.
- Wet room.
Featured articles and news
Heat pump announcements, what homeowners need to know
An 'ultimate guide to heat pumps' from a heating company.
Construction contract awards reach £7.1bn in February
Their highest level in seven months.
The journey to sustainability in heritage
Research is the key to better understanding.
Heritage approaches to adaptation, mitigation and loss.
Bridging the gap between policy, finance and installation.
Development on brownfield land
Definition, background, policy and the latest consultation.
With the Design Framework for Building Services.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, measures and the roles involved.
ECA joins HSE campaign to support mental health
Working Minds’ five simple steps based on risk assessment.
Mental health in the construction industry
Mental health issues in brief with related articles.
Transitional arrangements, Building Control and the BSR.
For pre-October buildings with substantial progress by April.
How to write an inspection and test plan
ITPs for quality control and assurance particular elements.
Why quality counts in domestic ventilation systems
From products, to systems to the installation.
Empowering the Future with CIOB Academy
Lifelong learning, upscaling, and reskilling for the built environment.
Winners of the 2024 ASBP Awards
Project, Product and Initiative according to the 6 pillars.