A new study shows that workers are forced to use buckets, buckets, bags and bottles due to the lack of toilet facilities.
The TUC released a report to coincide with World Toilet Day (19 November) that revealed nearly three-fifths of workers (57.8%), do not have access to lavatories whenever they need them.
The survey found that respondents cited a lack in breaks, limited access to toilets during their shifts, and being disciplined by supervisors for taking a break for a bathroom. Teachers of children could not leave them unattended also cited this reason.
Only 45% of respondents said that access to toilets while at work is always unavailable, and 25% who have access say they are often in poor condition, unclear, or unfit for use.
The TUC says that the absence of toilets is not only concerning because it deprives employees of dignity but also puts their health at risk by increasing the chances of urinary infections, incontinence, and kidney disease for those who “hold it in”.
It calls on employers to improve employee access to facilities. They should insist that they allow longer breaks when needed and partner with local authorities and business to improve accessibility for mobile workers.
The union wants to include toilet needs in risk assessments for health and safety and to make reasonable adjustments so that disabled workers can meet their toilet needs as part of their legal obligations under the Equality Act.
Kate Bell, assistant general secretary of the TUC, said: “We deserve dignity at work. Carrying a bucket, or bottle, around as a toilet is not a dignified act for anyone. Holding out when you have to go can cause health problems.
She emphasized that access to toilets can be important for certain people, such as pregnant women or those who have health conditions which may require frequent and fast access.
Bell said: “It’s not something people like to talk about. So employers should think of ways they can meet the needs of staff who have specific toilet requirements with dignity and privacy.”
Unite, a union, has also warned that the lack of toilets is becoming a major industrial issue and bus companies, in particular, need to act.
The union says that the issue has been at the center of several recent disputes, and is now causing anger and resentment in bus drivers. Thompsons employment lawyers are working with the union to determine their legal rights.
Unite says it will continue its campaign in 2011 and “will take all legal and industrial avenues available to combat the problem that is prevalent in the sector”.
Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham stated: “The right of workers to use decent toilets at work is a basic human right.” It is hard to believe that workers in the 21st Century are denied access decent toilets. There should be no doubt in the minds of employers. It is unacceptable to deny workers access to toilets. Unite is prepared to fight any employer who refuses to meet this basic need with all the force of the union.
