BS 6465-4

BS 6465-4:2010
BSI Standards Publication
Sanitary installations
Part 4: Code of practice for the provision
of public toilets
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BS 6465-4:2010 BRITISH STANDARD
Publishing and copyright information

The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.
© BSI 2010
ISBN 978 0 580 61902 1
ICS 91.140.70
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The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard:
Committee reference B/209
Draft for comment 10/30177388 DC
Publication history
First published November 2010
Amendments issued since publication
Date Text affected

BRITISH STANDARD BS 6465-4:2010
Contents
Foreword iii
Introduction 1
Section 1: General 2
1 Scope 2
2 Normative references 2
3 Terms and definitions 3
Section 2: Public toilet strategy 6
4 Strategy contents 6
5 Liaison and exchange of information 7
6 Survey of existing toilet provision 8
7 Identifying user groups and user needs 9
8 Public toilet spatial strategy 10
9 Types of toilet provision 14
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10 Equality and meeting the needs of different user groups 16
11 Determining numerical levels of public toilet provision 20
Section 3: Siting of toilets 25
12 Principles of siting of public toilets at the local area level 25
13 Relationship to public transport, parking and footpaths 26
14 Principles of site analysis 27
15 Access to and circulation around the building 28
16 Signage and information 28
Section 4: Design of toilet blocks 30
17 External design 30
18 Security 30
19 Internal design 31
Section 5: Management of toilet blocks 46
20 Management and staffing 46
21 Cleaning 47
22 Maintenance 48
Annexes
Annex A (informative) Examples of signs for public toilets and
associated facilities 49
Bibliography 54
List of figures
Figure 1 – Activity spaces and circulation space where cubicles face
washbasins 33
Figure 2 – Example of a normal rectangular cubicle layout 35
Figure 3 – Example of a cubicle layout with a luggage zone 36
Figure A.1 – Direction arrow 49
Figure A.2 – Ladies’ toilet 49
Figure A.3 – Gentlemen’s toilet 50
Figure A.4 – Unisex toilet 50
Figure A.5 – Accessible toilet facilities 51
Figure A.6 – Ladies’ and accessible toilet facilities 51
Figure A.7 – Gentlemen’s and accessible toilet facilities 52
Figure A.8 – Baby changing facilities 52
Figure A.9 – Showers 53
Figure A.10 – Changing Places toilet facilities 53

© BSI 2010 • i
List of tables
Table 1 – Types of public toilet provision 14
Table 2 – Advantages and disadvantages of locating public toilets in
the vicinity of other buildings 26
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Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover,
pages i to iv, pages 1 to 56, an inside back cover and a back cover.
ii • © BSI 2010

Foreword
Publishing information
This part of BS 6465 is published by BSI and came into effect on
30 November 2010. It was prepared by Panel B/209/-/2, Draft
BS 6465‑4, under the authority of Technical Committee B/209,
General building codes.
Relationship with other publications

BS 6465 is published in four parts as follows:
• Part 1: Code of practice for the design of sanitary facilities and
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scales of provision of sanitary and associated appliances;

• Part 2: Code of practice for space requirements for sanitary
appliances;
• Part 3: Code of practice for the selection, installation and
maintenance of sanitary and associated appliances;
• Part 4: Code of practice for the provision of public toilets.
Part 1 gives recommendations for the design of sanitary facilities and
for the scale of provision of sanitary and associated appliances in
buildings, and for portable toilets.
Part 2 gives recommendations on the space requirements around
all sanitary appliances to ensure convenience in use and to facilitate
maintenance and cleaning.
Part 3 gives recommendations on the selection, installation and
maintenance of various types of sanitary and associated appliances.
Use of this document

As a code of practice, this part of BS 6465 takes the form of guidance and
recommendations. It should not be quoted as if it were a specification
and particular care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance
are not misleading.
Any user claiming compliance with this part of BS 6465 is expected
to be able to justify any course of action that deviates from its
recommendations.
Presentational conventions
The provisions in this standard are presented in roman (i.e. upright)
type. Its recommendations are expressed in sentences in which the
principal auxiliary verb is “should”.
Commentary, explanation and general informative material is presented
in smaller italic type, and does not constitute a normative element.
Contractual and legal considerations

This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.

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Introduction
Research and feedback from community groups has shown that public
toilet provision is essential in creating accessible and sustainable cities,
and meeting the needs of commuters, tourists, visitors, and residents.
To meet these needs, and those of people in towns, villages and rural
areas, it is essential that there are adequate numbers of public toilets
and that they are in the correct locations, accessible, well designed
and suitable for user needs.
From the environmental viewpoint, public toilets are often the missing
link in creating sustainable cities, as people are more likely to leave
their cars at home and travel on public transport, on foot, or by bicycle
if they know that public toilets are readily available within walking
distance of their destination.
From the social point of view, public toilet provision benefits all
sectors of society, men and women, disabled people, older people,
families and children.
From the economic point of view, public toilet provision, rather then
being a burden on resources, can encourage people to visit a location,
stay longer and spend more money in the area.
This part of BS 6465 provides recommendations and guidance
intended for those responsible for the surveying, assessing, planning,
commissioning, designing, managing and use of public toilets. The
recommendations and guidance in this standard are intended to cover
public toilet provision for the full range of users and in all locations
including towns and cities, rural areas and villages and in relation to
main transport routes and termini.
The recommendations in this part of BS 6465 are applicable to new
public toilet installations. They are also applicable to the upgrading
of existing public toilets. However, it is accepted that it might not
be possible to upgrade existing toilets to be in accordance with all
the recommendations in this standard, for example for physical or
economic reasons. It is important to note that it is not intended that
any public toilet be closed just because it is not entirely in accordance
with this standard, as any public toilet provision is considered to be
better than none.
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Section 1: General
1 Scope
This part of BS 6465 gives recommendations on the location, numbers,
siting, design and management of public toilets. It is applicable to the
provision of new facilities and to the retention and refurbishment of
existing facilities.
This standard is applicable to the following types of public toilet facilities:
a) municipal public on-street toilets;
b) off-street publicly available toilets (e.g. in shopping malls);
c) automatic public conveniences (APCs);
d) street urinals;
e) facilities for disabled people, from the point of view of scale of
provision and location;
f) baby changing and ancillary toilet facilities.
This part of BS 6465 is not applicable to the following:
1) toilet facilities in buildings open to the public such as theatres,
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libraries, hospitals and hotels, (see BS 6465-1 for these), unless the
toilets in these buildings are made available to the general public
as off-street publicly available toilets as part of an overall public
toilet availability strategy;
2) sanitary provision on vehicles, such as aeroplanes, trains and
coaches (although it is applicable to public toilets in transport
termini and interchanges);
3) detailed space requirements in public toilet facilities (see BS 6465-2);
4) the selection and installation of appliances and fittings (see
BS 6465-3).
This part of BS 6465 does not give detailed recommendations for the
layout of, and fixtures and fittings in, accessible toilet facilities. This
standard does give recommendations for the provision of accessible
toilets and Changing Places toilet facilities from the point of view
of scale of provision and location. For detailed layout it is essential
for the user to consult BS 8300. References to BS 8300 are given for
particular items where these are covered in the present standard with
respect to public toilets in particular, however this is not a substitute
for following the provisions of BS 8300 with respect to accessible
toilets and Changing Places toilet facilities.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the
application of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 6465-1, Sanitary installations – Part 1: Code of practice for the
design of sanitary facilities and scales of provision of sanitary and
associated appliances
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BS 6465-2, Sanitary installations – Part 2: Code of practice for space

requirements for sanitary appliances
BS 6465-3:2006, Sanitary installations – Part 3: Code of practice for
the selection, installation and maintenance of sanitary and associated
appliances
BS 7958, Closed circuit television (CCTV) – Management and
operation – Code of practice
BS 8300, Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs
of disabled people – Code of practice
BS EN 1036-1, Glass in building – Mirrors from silver-coated float glass
for internal use – Part 1: Definitions, requirements and test methods
BS EN 1036-2, Glass in building – Mirrors from silver-coated float
glass for internal use – Part 2: Evaluation of product conformity;
product standard
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this part of BS 6465 the following terms and
definitions apply.
3.1 24-hour toilet
toilet facilities that are available at any time of day
3.2 accessible toilet
toilet designed for wheelchair users, or for ambulant disabled users
NOTE Ambulant disabled users include people who are blind or partially
sighted and people with invisible disabilities such as arthritis, colostomies
and incontinence.
3.3 activity space

area needed, in addition to the appliance space (see 3.4), for the user
to carry out the activity normally associated with the appliance and to
enable the provider to undertake cleaning and maintenance
3.4 appliance space
area required for a sanitary appliance and, where applicable, any
associated pipework and fittings
3.5 Authority
provider responsible for the public toilet strategy and provision of
public toilets in an area
NOTE This will normally be the Local Authority, but may be another
provider.
3.6 automatic public convenience

APC
stand alone public toilet with WC and washbasin that cleans
automatically after use
NOTE These are sometimes known as “automatic public toilets” (APTs).
3.7 Changing Places toilet

toilet designed for use by people with severe disabilities who require
the help of up to two assistants
NOTE The space is fitted with a changing bench and fixed tracked hoist
system so that assistants can fit the user’s slings to the hoist and move the
person to the various items in the facility.
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3.8 circulation space

area free of obstructions required for the user to gain access to an
appliance without interference to users of other appliances
3.9 community toilet
toilet facilities in business premises made available to non-customers
through an agreement between a Local Authority and the business
owners
3.10 customer toilet
toilet on private property provided solely for the use of customers
visiting the property
3.11 family toilet
toilet containing a WC, washbasin and baby changing facilities, that
can be used by parents with young children and babies
3.12 portable toilet
movable structure containing sanitary appliances, either temporarily
connected to drainage and/or water supply systems, or with
self‑contained supply and waste collection systems
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3.13 public toilet

toilet for use by the public in a public area which can be on or
off‑street, and which is usually provided and maintained by a Local
Authority or other corporate body
3.14 publicly available toilet
off-street toilet on private property to which the general public (other
than customers) may have access ( e.g. in a shopping mall)
3.15 sanitary appliance
fixed appliance, normally connected to a water supply and to a drain,
used for the provision of water, or for cleaning, or for wastewater
disposal
NOTE Sanitary appliances include WCs, urinals and washbasins. They also
include appliances that are not connected to a water supply or a drain, for
example waterless urinals.
3.16 self-contained toilet

ventilated toilet compartment which contains one WC and washbasin
3.17 squat toilet
WC pan set into the floor which can be used as a urinal or which the
user squats down to use
3.18 street urinal
structure containing urinals provided in a public place
3.19 sunpipe
pipe lined with light reflecting material which is used to transmit
daylight from the outside of a building to the inside
3.20 toilet
room in which a WC or WCs are installed and which is used solely for
excretory purposes and associated washing
3.21 unisex toilet
toilet that can be used by either sex
3.22 urinal
sanitary appliance used by men for the reception and disposal of urine
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3.23 washbasin
basin for washing hands
3.24 waterless urinal
urinal that is not connected to a water supply
3.25 WC (water closet)
pan receptacle for faecal matter, urine and toilet paper plus any
associated flushing device, plumbing and fittings
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Section 2: Public toilet strategy

COMMENTARY ON SECTION 2
It is very important that public toilet provision is seen as a strategic,
high‑level urban spatial policy, as part of the normal work of city planning
departments, and as a key component alongside other economic, social
and urban design considerations. It is important that those administering
public toilet provision have effective communication with strategy policy
departments, and are well acquainted with user needs and with higher
level government policy. Although public toilet provision is declining,
demand from the general public remains high, and government policy has
endorsed their importance.
NOTE See Improving access to better quality toilets – A strategic guide
CLG, 2008 [1].
4 Strategy contents
A public toilet strategy should include the following.
a) Identification of the Authority in charge of the strategy.
This will be needed where two or more Authorities might overlap
in an area.
b) Identification of the department within the Authority in charge
of the strategy.
It should be determined which department within the Authority is
in charge of the strategy, and which other departments and outside
agencies need to be involved in determining and implementing the
strategy (see Clause 5).
c) Consultation with relevant parties.
Consultation should be carried out before determining the
strategy (see Clause 5).
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d) A survey of existing facilities.
A survey of current provision should be undertaken. The current
toilet situation in the area should be recorded on maps, and survey
data retained for future reference and updating (see Clause 6).
e) A survey of users and their needs.
See Clause 7.
f) A spatial strategy.
A strategy should be drawn up to show where toilets are needed,
and the number and level of facilities required (see Clause 8).
g) Identification of deficiencies.
Following surveys of users and existing facilities, it should be
determined where toilet provision is non-existent, or inadequate,
in terms of numbers, range or quality of facilities.
h) Determination of types of facilities to be provided.
There are different types of toilets and methods of provision
(see Clause 9).
i) Identification of priorities for upgrading.
The Authority should then determine priorities for upgrading
provision as necessary (see 8.6). A policy and timescale for
upgrading should be produced.
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j) A financial planning and charging policy.

Financial planning and charging policies are outside the scope
of this standard, except in as far as they involve access and
accommodation requirements (see 19.2.3 and 19.4.2).
NOTE The Public Health Act 1936 [2] prohibited Local Authorities
from charging for the use of urinals. This restriction was removed
by Section 22 of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (Amendment)
Regulations 2007 [3], and Local Authorities can now charge for both
WC and urinal use.
k) A management policy.
Toilets will need attendance, cleaning and maintenance (see
Section 5).
l) User information.
Overall public toilet provision in the whole Authority area should
be included in one place on the Authority’s website for use by the
public. This should include a map showing where public toilets
(and other toilets available for use by the public) are situated, the
facilities available, and nearby parking if necessary. This information
should also be held in council offices, tourist information centres,
etc. Ideally paper copies should also be available for the public.
Local area signboards and paper maps may also be produced,
showing toilet provision (and possibly other facilities) in more
detail. This is particularly suitable for busy areas, and those areas
frequented by visitors.
Brief information about toilet availability should be given on
road signs on major roads coming into towns and cities or areas
of population or of special interest to visitors.
m) Regular review and updating of the strategy.
The strategy should be reviewed at least annually to record progress.
Overall strategies should be reviewed and updated at least at five
yearly intervals to take account of new developments, population
changes, toilet closures, etc.
5 Liaison and exchange of information

5.1 The scale of provision of public toilets, and their location, should
always be determined in consultation with the local planning authority,
toilet user groups, local businesses and developers, and police, and with
transport providers in the area in question.
5.2 In order to do this, a database should be established giving details
of all transport operators, health and disability groups, businesses
and national interest groups that have a role to play in public toilet
provision.
5.3 Liaison should also be established with other governmental and
Local Authority departments whose work has a bearing on toilet
provision and relevant policies of these bodies should be identified,
in particular town and country planning, public health, licensing,
transportation planning, police and social services.
5.4 Strong links should also be established between all public and
private sector providers of public toilets in the area in question,
including retail, car parking, sport and leisure organizations.
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5.5 Throughout the development of the toilet strategy for the area in
question, and as an ongoing process in respect of toilet management,
all these organizations and groups should be kept informed of
progress, public participation should be encouraged, and significant
toilet provision proposals should be put out to consultation in the
same way as any other major spatial planning policy.
5.6 It can also be of value to consult manufacturers on product
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availability and technological developments.
5.7 Current toilet provision maps (with upgrading priorities shown
as necessary) should be available to all departments of the Authority
for reference.
6 Survey of existing toilet provision

6.1 In order to maximize the effectiveness of toilet provision (for good
toilet provision can be wasted in a poor location), and to develop a
toilet strategy and hierarchy of provision, the Authority should first
undertake a survey to ascertain what is already available in terms of
current levels of provision. This should include their appropriateness to
user needs, footfall and transport routes.
6.2 The following information should be recorded.
a) Number of existing facilities, including:
1) toilet blocks;
2) sanitary appliances for men (WCs and urinals), and sanitary
appliances for women (WCs), in each block;
3) accessible toilets;
4) adult and child changing facilities (including Changing Places
toilets);
5) baby changing facilities;
6) street urinals;
7) APCs;
8) squat toilets.
b) Accessibility, including:
1) opening hours, both daily and seasonal;
2) location, including distance from users, visibility, signage and
environmental factors that might affect use, such as toilets
in particularly vulnerable locations in terms of crime and
vandalism;
3) physical factors, including steps, underground toilets, pushchair
access, circulation space and cubicle size;
NOTE 1 People are taller and heavier than they were in the
past, and the adequacy of cubicle sizes, also the heights and
strengths of fixtures and fittings, should be considered as
necessary.
4) availability of nearby parking, including facilities for disabled
people and for bicycles.
c) Features, both positive and negative, which can influence use,
e.g. vandalism, disrepair, privacy, safety, cleanliness, and facilities
for securing dogs and bicycles.
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d) Facilities, including rooms for attendants, cleaning facilities, and

other sanitary and associated appliances in the toilet block including
washbasins, sanitary disposal units, mirrors and coat hooks.
e) Users, including the numbers of men, women, children, babies
and disabled people, likely to use the facilities.
f) Usage and length of queues, including any daily, weekly or seasonal
changes in numbers of users (especially important in tourist areas).
NOTE 2 CCTV and electronic people counters can be helpful in
determining numbers using the facility, but might not reflect demand.
NOTE 3 The views of users are also of importance (see Clause 7).
6.3 In areas where toilets have been closed, if possible data should
also be gathered on previous levels of provision, where public toilets
were previously located and when they were closed. It should be
determined whether the closures were because of lack of funding,
lack of demand, or social problems (e.g. vandalism, drug use or other
antisocial behaviour) and whether the previous pattern might provide
a good starting point for restoring public toilet provision to areas
where it is still needed.
6.4 Data on all toilet providers should be collected, especially in areas
where the Authority is not the main public toilet provider, so that
there is clear information on who is providing toilets for use by the
public, and where.
6.5 A map should be produced showing the distribution and location
of all public toilets across the administrative area in question, with
a key showing the different sorts of public toilet available. If a map
already exists, this should be checked and updated if necessary.
6.6 Liaison should be established with Local Authorities in adjacent
areas to facilitate seamless provision of public toilets across
administrative boundaries.
6.7 If an Authority has a centralised GIS (geographic information
system) the data collected on public toilet location, distribution and
types of facilities should be uploaded onto this system so that all
departments can access this information.
7 Identifying user groups and user needs

COMMENTARY ON CLAUSE 7
Toilet users and toilet providers can have very different perspectives on
public toilet provision. Therefore it is very important to identify all the
different user groups so that their views can be taken into account. This is
particularly important at the local level.
NOTE On average within the UK population, around 18% are disabled
people, 40% do not have driving licences, 10% are members of an ethnic
minority community, nearly 40% are over the retirement age and 52%
are female. These figures will vary according to location, for example
seaside towns might have much higher proportions of older people, and
some urban areas, for example London, have much higher levels of ethnic
minority communities.
7.1 Qualitative data should also be collected on types of users and
their particular needs. A database of user groups representing
different users should be compiled so that they can be engaged in
public participation and consultation on toilet provision policies (see
Clause 5). Different user types to be taken into account should include
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women and men, members of ethnic minority communities, religious

groups, disabled people, older people, and those responsible for
babies and young children.
7.2 The user types should include both people resident in the area in
question, and people coming into the area from elsewhere such as
tourists, visitors, commuters and other workers.
NOTE 1 The number of non-resident users varies according to location.
For example, in central London non-resident groups comprise the majority
of public toilet users.
NOTE 2 Other workers include people who are mobile workers, for
example traffic wardens, police officers, delivery staff and bus drivers.
These people particularly need toilet facilities in the areas where they are
working, which might include suburban areas (see 8.2).
7.3 It is extremely important that women’s as well as men’s toilet
needs, experiences and requirements are taken into account fully
(see 10.1).
NOTE Examples of how to mainstream gender considerations into policy
making are given in the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Gender
mainstreaming toolkit [4] and Planning advice note PAN 7 [5].
7.4 Users should be asked for their opinions on the number and
positioning of toilets, facilities within the toilets and cleaning,
maintenance and security issues.
7.5 All complaints, comments and suggestions received from the
general public regarding public toilet provision in the area in question
should be logged and collated, and key issues that are frequently
raised should be highlighted and fed into the policy making process.
NOTE It is important that this is done even-handedly without
prejudgements being made and that no issue raised is discounted.
7.6 Determining the numbers of people using existing toilets will
be helpful in determining required provision. See 11.2.2 for further
information.
8 Public toilet spatial strategy
8.1 General
8.1.1 Having undertaken the survey of the existing overall toilet
situation (see Clause 5 and Clause 6), the Authority should then
develop a strategy for public toilet provision in their area in accordance
with the hierarchy of centres and key locations as given in this clause,
so that provision is appropriate, but not excessive, and suitable for the
area in question.
8.1.2 The importance of the spatial strategy is to ensure that there are
adequate toilet facilities throughout the whole area, rather than just
at a few major locations. However, the scale of provision will need to
be greatest in the busiest areas, and recommendations for the three
levels of the toilet hierarchy given in 8.3.2, 8.3.3 and 8.3.4 should be
followed, as applicable.
8.1.3 In order to develop an effective toilet strategy with adequate
provision, distribution and coverage at all levels and localities within
the area in question, Authorities should firstly identify those areas
where toilet provision is needed.
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8.2 Identification of areas needing public toilet provision

8.2.1 The provision of public toilets should be determined according
to local need. An assessment of need should be made of areas such as:
a) city and town centres;
b) public transport interchanges and termini;
c) car parks and park and ride facilities;
d) tourist attractions and resort areas;
e) parks, allotments, cemeteries;
f) sports grounds;
g) shopping centres and market places;
h) suburban areas and villages, where toilet facilities might be
needed by mobile workers;
i) beaches;
j) cycle paths;
k) rural footpaths;
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l) occasionally used areas, e.g. fairgrounds.
8.2.2 This list is not exhaustive, and toilet need should be considered
anywhere people are likely to congregate. Toilet provision should
also be considered for people in transit, e.g. on trunk roads, and busy
thoroughfares in towns and cities. Where toilets are intended for use
by motorists, nearby parking facilities should be available.
8.2.3 Even in less busy places, people should be able to access public
toilets where other toilet facilities will not be available to them.
Although priority should be given to providing toilets in the areas
listed in 8.6, an assessment should also be made of need for public
toilets in less busy areas. Examples of different areas are shown
in 8.3.2, 8.3.3 and 8.3.4, but the scale of provision should be judged
on usage rather than location, for example, some parks will come into
the medium use category and some into the low use category.
NOTE Railway stations and central area car parks, for example, are
likely to be the main gateways to a city for large numbers of commuters,
tourists, shoppers and other visitors and so a high level of public toilet
provision is needed. However, local area toilets can be important to
significant numbers of residents. For example, many older people might
take a bus to their local shopping centre and need a toilet there, even
though they might not have travelled very far, because of the infrequency
of bus services and because of the urinary problems that can be associated
with old age.
8.3 Hierarchy of toilet locations
8.3.1 General
Once the areas needing toilets have been identified, a hierarchy based
on usage should be determined. Usage, and hence facilities provided,
should be based on numbers, type of users, pattern of use, etc.
8.3.2 Heavy use areas

8.3.2.1 Examples of heavy use areas are city centres, major transport
termini and major tourist areas.

© BSI 2010 • 11
8.3.2.2 Large centres should have the highest level of toilet provision,
with attendants if possible, and the widest range of facilities, including
facilities such as accessible toilets and baby changing areas, and
possibly shower facilities. A Changing Places toilet for severely disabled
people should also be included. (See BS 8300 for additional suggested
locations.)
8.3.2.3 The Authority should take into account off-street toilets that are
provided in association with retail premises such as shopping malls, and
community toilets. However, it should be checked whether the opening
and closing times of these toilets are appropriate to local demand and
activity patterns, and ensured that alternative on-street provision is
available at other times. There should always be toilets available that
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people can access without having to enter private premises.

8.3.2.4 In city centres, fully operational 24-hour toilet facilities should
be available to provide for the day-time shoppers, night-time drinkers,
shift workers, commuters, etc. going through the centre at all times.
Where it is not feasible to keep all main facilities open for 24 hours,
these can be supplemented by APCs if necessary, but adequate facilities
at reasonable distances apart should always be available.
8.3.2.5 In town and city centres and tourist areas, toilets should be
within a short walking distance, and should ideally be at 300 m centres
in the busiest areas, and at 500 m centres generally in town centres.
8.3.3 Medium use areas

8.3.3.1 Examples of medium use areas are small town centres,
suburban shopping centres, busy public transport termini, major car
parks, large public parks, beaches, sports grounds and leisure areas.
8.3.3.2 District centres and specific areas of activity should have a
level of toilet provision appropriate to the size and likely usage of the
areas. This might necessitate 24-hour toilets. Accessible toilet facilities
and baby changing facilities should be available.
8.3.3.3 Spacing should depend on intensity of use.
8.3.4 Low use areas

8.3.4.1 Examples of low use areas are local shopping centres with
neighbourhood and passing-through catchment, and more dispersed
and remote locations, including villages and hamlets, locations
served by rural transport networks, allotments, out of town office
developments and industrial and retail parks.
8.3.4.2 The needs of small local centres should be served on a more
modest scale. Public toilets should also be available to serve the
dispersed residential suburban areas that surround local centres,
some of which have substantial populations. Where there are no
identifiable centres in large residential areas, toilets should be made
available near major road junctions or by busy bus stops.
8.3.4.3 At more remote locations, for example villages, wayside
lay‑bys and beauty spots, at least minimum facilities should be
provided, such as an APC (if services are available). These should be
suitable for disabled people and contain a baby changing facility.
12 • © BSI 2010

8.3.4.4 It is recommended that at least one toilet facility should be

provided in every settlement with a population over 5 000.
8.3.4.5 However, toilet providers should make sure, through their initial
survey and investigations (see Clause 6 and Clause 7) that they do not
underestimate the necessary provision, because there might be days, or
times, at which use is greatly intensified, for example when a weekly
market takes place.
8.3.4.6 Only in locations where there is very occasional use, or there is a
“one off”, infrequent, or sudden rise in toilet demand should portable
toilets be used e.g. fairgrounds and festivals.
8.3.4.7 Public toilets should be made available in parks, playing fields,
allotments and similar areas where private facilities do not exist. In
some cases these can be combined with changing rooms, visitor centres,
cafe and car park facilities.
8.3.4.8 Public toilets should be provided at out-of-town and
decentralized employment locations. At least one toilet should be
provided on the main road approach to out-of-town business parks,
possibly with a short term lay by.
8.4 Toilets for motorists

8.4.1 Toilet facilities should generally be available 28 miles (or
30 minutes driving) apart on motorways, and 14 miles (or 30 minutes
driving) apart on main trunk roads. This is to enable HGV (heavy goods
vehicle) drivers in particular to take the regular breaks required by law.
Full details of the requirements for toilets and rest areas on major roads
are included in Policy for service areas and other roadside facilities on
motorways and all-purpose trunk roads in England (Department for
Transport 2008) [6].
8.4.2 Toilet facilities on main roads do not have to be exclusively for
motorists, but they should be close to the main road, well signposted,
and have parking facilities nearby. Toilets in less busy locations should
be clearly visible from the road, and be well lit, both for identification
by motorists, and for surveillance which can reduce antisocial behaviour.
Individual direct access self-contained toilets which open directly to
the footpath can also be used if necessary to reduce fear of antisocial
behaviour.
8.5 Remote locations

8.5.1 The need for public toilet provision in remote areas should not
be overlooked. These include public footpaths and cycle paths, beauty
spots and picnic areas. On walking and cycling paths, toilets should
ideally be no more than 30 minutes walk (1.5 miles) or 30 minutes
cycle ride (5 miles) apart. Where plumbing facilities are not practicable,
portable toilets or waterless toilets should be considered.
8.5.2 The recommendations in 8.4.2 on surveillance might also apply
to these areas.
© BSI 2010 • 13
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8.6 Priority of provision

8.6.1 It might not be possible to provide adequate toilets immediately
in all necessary locations. It is therefore recommended that where
people will not be using customer or publicly available toilets, priority
should be given to providing public toilets in areas where:
a) people are likely to remain for an hour or more;
b) people embark on, or disembark from, a journey lasting an hour
or more;
c) takeaway food and drink are consumed out of doors.
8.6.2 In these areas, the general public should not have to depend
on customer toilets where a purchase might be necessary to use the
facilities, e.g. licensed premises and cafes.
8.7 Future provision

The Authority should determine planning policy applicable to new
developments so that public toilet needs are always considered.
NOTE Town Planning consents can incorporate agreements made under
Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 [7] which could
include the provision of public toilets to be incorporated into a scheme by
developers.
9 Types of toilet provision

The different types of public toilet provision and the advantages and
disadvantages of each are listed in Table 1.
Table 1 Types of public toilet provision
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Type Advantages Disadvantages
Toilet blocks Most useful form of provision Most expensive to provide and
for busy areas. maintain.
These are the traditional solution.
They consist of a building, or Can incorporate attendant’s
a facility within a building, room, cleaning facilities, baby
provided to contain more than change, accessible toilets etc.
one toilet and associated facilities. Freely available to everyone; no
The men’s generally include vetting of users.
WCs, washbasins and urinals; the
women’s WCs and washbasins. Can incorporate advertising and
vending machines to generate
revenue.
Automatic public conveniences Relatively easy to site. Not suitable for areas of heavy
(APCs) use.
Economic way of providing
These are individual stand public toilets in lower use areas. Some people might be
alone toilets with hand washing frightened to use them.
Unisex, so only one toilet is
facilities, which are accessed needed. In spite of the fact that they are
by coins, and the whole automatic they need regular
compartment is washed after use. Can incorporate facilities for
servicing in the same way as
disabled people and baby
other toilet facilities.
changing.
Any malfunction is likely to put
24-hour availability.
the facility totally out of use.
14 • © BSI 2010

Table 1 Types of public toilet provision (continued)

Community toilets Allows Authority to provide Only available during opening
toilets less expensively. hours of premises.
This is a relatively recent scheme.
It involves the Authority paying No maintenance required by Might not provide facilities for
owners of local business premises Authority. all user groups (e.g. disabled
a fee to open their toilet facilities people, babies). Persons under
Might provide a wider
to the general public as well as to 18 are not generally allowed
distribution of toilets.
customers. into licensed premises.
Makes toilets available in places
(See Note 1.) Could be withdrawn at any time.
they might not otherwise be
provided. Not suitable for heavy use.
Users might be embarrassed to
ask for use, or be reluctant to
use toilets in licensed premises,
etc., for cultural reasons.
Owners can bar undesirable
users.
Need to be well signed and
publicised (see Clause 16).
Street urinals Can deal with peak time-related Only cater for men’s urination.
use. Do not provide facilities for
These are provided by Local
women. Additional toilet
Authorities. They can be Can be hidden away when not
provision will be required.
permanent, or recessed into the needed.
ground, only emerging when
needed.
Publicly available toilets Toilet provision at no cost to the Providers might resent use by
Authority. non-customers.
These are toilet facilities provided
by other providers, mainly for the Usually well maintained and Might not provide adequate
use of their customers, but which supervised. provision for additional numbers
may also be used by members of users.
of the general public. These can Might only be open for limited
include toilets in shopping malls, periods.
stations, etc.
Might not include accessible
(See Note 2 and Note 3.) toilets.
Could be withdrawn at any time.
Customer toilets Toilet provision at no cost to the Cater only for paying customers.
Authority.
These are toilet facilities Might only be open for limited
provided solely for use by Usually well maintained and periods.
customers in cafés, bars, places of supervised. Might not include accessible
entertainment, etc. Although they toilets.
are not strictly public toilets, they
do provide some provision for the Could be withdrawn at any time.
public, and can supplement other Should be considered only as
provision. a supplement that might help
(See Note 2.) extend coverage, or reduce the
numbers of sanitary appliances
needed in public toilets, not as a
substitute for public toilets.
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© BSI 2010 • 15
Table 1 Types of public toilet provision (continued)

Portable toilets Can be hired for specific periods. Hire charges.
(See Note 4.) No long term maintenance. Suitable site has to be found for
them.
Provide provision for areas that
are used only occasionally. Site has to be accessible to
vehicles for delivery and
Give additional provision for
maintenance.
occasional increased use of an
area (e.g. carnivals). Higher maintenance costs than
plumbed toilets.
Might be the only solution
for sites without water and
drainage.
NOTE 1 The publication Improving public access to toilets: Guidance on community toilet schemes and Satlav
(CLG 2008) [8] gives more information on this scheme.
NOTE 2 The Local Authorities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1972 [9] gives Local Authorities the power to
require toilets for customers in restaurants, bars and various places of assembly and entertainment.
NOTE 3 The provision of toilets in shopping malls is covered in BS 6465-1.
NOTE 4 It should be ensured that hand washing facilities are provided with portable toilets wherever a water
supply is provided.
10 Equality and meeting the needs of

different user groups
Attention is drawn to the Equality Act 2010 [10], and the regulations
made under it.
The Public Sector Equality Duty contained in this Act places statutory
duties on Local Authorities and other bodies providing services to the
public to take due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination in the
provision of services to the public.
10.1 Men and women

10.1.1 Women generally need a higher level of public toilet provision
than men. This is because women take longer to use the toilet for a
variety of biological and clothing reasons, and also have more reasons to
use the toilet including menstruation, pregnancy, and the fact that they
suffer from a higher level of urinary incontinence than men. Women
always have to use WCs, whereas men may use urinals or WCs.
10.1.2 In making a calculation of the numbers of appliances required,
one urinal should be counted as equivalent to one WC. Women generally
require twice as many appliances as men to achieve equal waiting time.
Women have often been underprovided with toilets in the past, and it
should not be assumed that existing facilities for women are necessarily
adequate in terms of numbers.
10.1.3 Every male toilet should have at least one WC, and at least one
WC per 4 urinals or part thereof.
NOTE Some men suffer from paruresis (inability to urinate in a public place),
and prefer to use WCs for urination, as do some men for religious reasons.
For these reasons the ratio of WCs to urinals might need to be increased.
16 • © BSI 2010

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10.1.4 When collecting data on the profile of toilet users in the

area in question (see Clause 7) the Authority should give particular
attention to the male:female ratio. For example, in a typical shopping
centre 60% to 80% of the shoppers are female, and toilet provision
in retail centres (and therefore in city centres) should embody this
difference. Likewise, there might be a greater need for men’s toilets
in some areas, e.g. outside football grounds. See Clause 11 for
calculation methods.
10.1.5 In some areas the gender ratio is likely to vary greatly on
different occasions. In such areas a larger number of smaller toilet
blocks should be provided so that the male/female designation can be
changed as required.
10.2 Children and babies

10.2.1 Adequate baby changing facilities should be provided in all
public toilets. These are particularly important at locations frequented
by families, for example seaside and tourist venues.
10.2.2 Both men and women, including disabled parents, should
have access to baby changing facilities, and unisex facilities should be
considered. Details of accessible baby changing facilities are included
in BS 8300. These require a room which is a minimum of 2 m × 2 m.
10.2.3 Some possible baby changing options are as follows, listed in
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order of preference.
a) A family toilet. This is the preferred option for baby changing.
Parents or carers might be reluctant to use the WC themselves
if this means that they must leave a child and pushchair outside.
A family toilet cubicle will allow a parent or carer, young child
and baby all to use the same facility. It should contain a screened
WC, washbasin and baby changing unit. The inclusion of an
additional, smaller, WC for children could be considered if
sufficient space is available. The cubicle and door should be large
enough to accommodate a double pushchair. The door should be
a minimum of 850 mm wide.
b) A separate baby changing room. This should contain one or more
baby changing units and a washbasin. The room and door should
be large enough to accommodate a double pushchair. The door
should be a minimum of 850 mm wide.
c) An enlarged toilet cubicle 1 200 mm wide. If it is not possible
to incorporate baby changing facilities in another area, such
a cubicle [see 10.3.2d)] can incorporate a baby changing unit.
This cubicle can also be used by people who need more space
and by people with luggage (see 10.4). However, in existing
toilets it might only be possible to provide an enlarged cubicle
by combining two existing cubicles. In such a case it should be
determined whether the loss of a cubicle or the absence of an
enlarged cubicle would be preferable.
d) A baby changing unit in the circulation area. This option would
be applicable to smaller or existing toilets where there is
sufficient space and the changing unit when in use would not
block access or circulation routes.
NOTE Details of fittings needed in baby changing facilities are given
in 19.11.

© BSI 2010 • 17
10.2.4 Baby changing units should not normally be placed in accessible

toilets (apart from stand alone toilets). However, in existing toilet blocks
they may be placed in accessible toilets, but only if there is absolutely
no other alternative, as this might result in unacceptable waiting times.
10.2.5 Where there is likely to be only occasional use, one baby
changing unit may be provided. Where there is likely to be regular use,
two or more units might be required to limit waiting times. Provision
should be assessed on the basis of local demand (see Clause 6 and
Clause 7) and increased if required.
10.2.6 The provision of small WCs for children under 5 years old may
be considered, particularly in areas where there are a lot of young
children, such as playgrounds. These can be either in family toilets or in
main toilet areas. However, parents will generally accompany a young
child in a public toilet and assist them if necessary, therefore small WCs
should not be provided unless there are also an adequate number of
full sized WCs which can be used by older children and adults as well.
NOTE Guidance on children’s WC pans is given in BS 6465-3:2006, 8.2.3.
10.2.7 The Authority might wish to consider the need for breast
feeding areas for women. If provided, these should be separated from
the main toilet area and from the baby changing facilities.
10.3 Disabled people

NOTE Full details on the design of accessible toilets are given in BS 8300.
10.3.1 With the increased mobility of disabled people and the
growing number of older people, public toilet blocks should contain
accessible provision.
10.3.2 New public toilet accommodation should include the following
provisions.
a) If only one toilet cubicle is provided, it should be a unisex accessible
toilet cubicle. (This will allow a disabled person to be assisted by a
member of the opposite sex.)
b) In toilet blocks, at least one unisex accessible toilet cubicle should
be provided at each location where sanitary facilities are provided.
c) In addition to item b) at least one toilet cubicle should be
provided in separate-sex toilet accommodation for use by
ambulant disabled people.
d) Where there are four or more WC cubicles in separate-sex toilet
accommodation, one of these should be an enlarged cubicle
(1 200 mm wide) for use by people who need extra space, (e.g.
pregnant women, older people, people with luggage or shopping,
people with children) in addition to any provision under item c)
(see also 10.4).
NOTE 1 There is no standard pictogram for indicating enlarged
cubicles, so a sign saying “Larger toilet” or similar, should be
displayed on the door (see Clause 16).
e) In heavy use areas, (see 8.3.2) an additional Changing Places toilet
should be provided.
NOTE 2 Further details of the minimum requirements for new accessible
toilets can be found in the Building Regulations Approved Document M [11]
for England and Wales. Attention is also drawn to Scottish Building
Standards Technical Handbook Non-domestic (Section 3.12 Sanitary
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18 • © BSI 2010

facilities) [12] and the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) Technical

Booklet R. [13].
NOTE 3 Requirements for accessible toilets at railway stations are
included in Accessible train station design for disabled people: A code of
practice Department for Transport 2010 [14].
NOTE 4 An accessible toilet may be included as part of a facility provided
under the Shopmobility scheme.
NOTE 5 Provision of accessible toilets may be modified if the toilet site is
wholly or partially inaccessible to disabled people, e.g. some mountain or
moorland sites.
10.3.3 Wheelchair users take longer to use the WC than non-disabled
people. Hence, in some busy areas more than one wheelchair accessible
toilet will be needed. The number of wheelchair accessible toilets
required should be assessed on the basis of local needs (see Clause 6 and
Clause 7).
10.3.4 Ideally, all toilet cubicles should contain handrails for the
assistance of the increasing number of older users. However, if handrails
are provided, it should be ensured that they do not impinge on the
activity space or the circle of clearance within the cubicle, which should
still be in accordance with 19.8.1.
10.3.5 Existing toilets should not be closed just because they do not
include facilities for disabled people; however, the Equality Act 2010 [10]
requires that “reasonable adjustments” be carried out to make facilities
accessible for disabled people. A recent Parliamentary Select Committee
on public toilet provision found that it was not reasonable to close
existing toilets because they did not have access for disabled people as
this would not improve facilities for disabled people and would only
disadvantage other users. However, providing accommodation for
disabled people should always be a priority. Where it would be difficult
to provide it in existing toilets, facilities for disabled people should be
provided close by if possible.
NOTE Attention is drawn to Select Committee Report The provision of
Public Toilets, HCH 636 2007-8 [15], and Government Response to the
Communities and Local Government Committee Report on the provision
of public toilets Cm 7530 2009 [16].
10.3.6 Incontinence is classed as a disability, and is often called a
hidden disability because people are reluctant to admit to it. It is
particularly relevant because of the increasing numbers of older
people in the population who are more prone to this disability.
It makes the provision and distribution of public toilets of prime
importance in ensuring that older people in particular are able to
travel and participate in community life.
NOTE Attention is drawn to the report Lifetime homes, lifetime
neighbourhoods: A national strategy for housing in an aging society,
Communities and Local Government, 2008 [17].
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10.4 People with luggage, shopping etc.

In relevant transport facilities and other areas where people are likely
to be carrying luggage, step-free access and extra space in the toilet will
be required. Space requirements for cubicles suitable for people with
luggage are given in BS 6465-2. In areas where people are occasionally
carrying luggage, or where the toilet cubicles were not designed to
those space standards, an enlarged cubicle 1 200 mm wide may be

© BSI 2010 • 19
provided [see 10.3.2d)]. This can be combined with baby changing if

necessary (see 10.2). The provision of lockers should be considered.
NOTE Requirements for appliance space, activity space and circulation
space are given in BS 6465-2.
10.5 Facilities for other user groups
10.5.1 Squat toilets

Members of ethnic minority communities in Britain will generally be
using standard toilet facilities in their homes, workplaces and hotels,
and might not require squat toilets, but areas with large ethnic
minority communities or large numbers of overseas visitors should
be surveyed to see if such facilities are required. If squat toilets are
provided, they should be in addition to, rather than replacements for,
standard WCs and urinals.
10.5.2 Showers
These may be provided in some public toilets. They are recommended
at beaches. Where public toilets are used by cyclists and travellers, the
need for showers and lockers should be considered. If showers are
provided, there should be at least one accessible shower (see BS 8300
for details).
10.6 Innovative products

When considering innovative approaches to toilet provision, issues of
gender equality, accessibility, social inclusion and sustainability should
always be taken into account. For example, provision of retractable
urinals could be expected to reduce street fouling by men, but might
leave women and other user groups without toilet facilities, and these
will need to be provided. Any innovative products should be tested on
a small scale initially, to ensure that maintenance requirements and
user satisfaction are acceptable.
11 Determining numerical levels of public

toilet provision
11.1 General
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Sufficient numbers of toilets and/or urinals should be provided:

• to meet the requirements of the locality;
• to meet the requirements of the expected gender ratio.
Therefore the Authority should determine:
• the likely population;
• the length of stay;
• the arrival rate;
• the gender ratio;
• peak times, including daily, weekly and seasonal variations;
and decide on the number of units required.
20 • © BSI 2010

11.2 Determining numbers of appliances
11.2.1 General
11.2.1.1 Determining the number of toilets needed will depend upon
the number of people in the area, the length of their stay, their arrival
rate, and the proximity of other toilets in the area. People should
be able to access the toilet fairly quickly, and except in exceptional
circumstances a queuing time of longer than two minutes should be
considered unacceptable.
11.2.1.2 It is difficult to determine the number of facilities required
without having data on current usage. The methods given in 11.2.2
and 11.2.3 for determining numbers to be provided, may be used.
11.2.2 Local knowledge

11.2.2.1 The survey information (see Clause 6) can be expected to
give some indication of usage of existing toilet provision, and where
this is adequate or inadequate. When data are available these can
be used when similar new toilet facilities are being provided. For
this reason the data collected on existing facilities should be as
complete as possible and should be retained for future use. Using the
measurement criteria outlined below when carrying out the survey
can help. Other toilet providers might have already surveyed toilet
usage in their location, and might be willing to share this information.
11.2.2.2 More complete information and greater accuracy of numbers
is likely to be obtained where electronic people counters have been
used. These can accurately determine numbers over a long period,
taking into account daily, weekly and seasonal variations, which
should be measured.
11.2.2.3 The British Toilet Association recommends that “a Local
Authority should provide no fewer than one cubicle per 550 women
and girls and one cubicle or one urinal per 1 100 men and boys
dwelling in the area”. Any large number of people visiting the area
regularly would have to be added to these population numbers. These
figures might not apply to every situation, but they can be used as a
guideline when assessing whether overall toilet provision is likely to
be adequate or not.
11.2.3 Calculation
11.2.3.1 General
11.2.3.1.1 An alternative is to use measurement techniques and
calculate likely numbers. This requires an “area” to be determined. If
the area is large, it might be that more than one toilet block will be
needed, as pedestrians in particular need to be within a short walking
distance of a toilet, and they might be needed at 300 m centres in
busy areas. When calculating the numbers, some deductions can be
made for customer toilets and publicly available toilets, depending on
the likelihood of their being open and generally accessible for use.
11.2.3.1.2 If washbasins are included within the toilet cubicle, an
additional 30 seconds should be added when calculating WC usage time.
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© BSI 2010 • 21
11.2.3.1.3 The following equation may be used:

U × A×T
N=
P
where
N is the number of WCs or urinals needed;
U is the number of potential users (number of persons in the
area);
A is the arrival rate, i.e. the percentage (as a decimal fraction)
of the number of potential users (U ) likely to use the
facilities in a given period (P );
T is the time a person takes to use the facilities (in minutes);
P is the period of time used for measurement (in minutes).
11.2.3.2 Number of potential users

The number of potential users in an area will vary, and the number
should be measured at a normal peak time, e.g. on a Saturday
afternoon in a shopping centre. As well as the number of potential
users, the gender of users will also need to be determined. If possible,
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the numbers of older people, disabled people, and young children in

the area should be determined so that numbers of accessible toilets
and baby changing facilities required can be more accurately assessed
(see also 10.2.5 and 10.3.3).
11.2.3.3 Arrival rate

11.2.3.3.1 Where P is 15 minutes (the length of time most commonly
used for the calculation), and where people have a limited time to use
the facilities or have arrived from a journey of an hour or more, the
arrival rate, A, could be 80% of the number of persons in the area.
Where use is spread evenly over long time periods e.g. in local parks,
the arrival rate, A, could be about 5% of the number of persons in the
area. This needs to be measured in each case. Most arrival rates can be
expected to be somewhere between these two figures.
11.2.3.3.2 The arrival rate at a public toilet will be different for short
stay locations to that for medium and long term stay locations. It
should be noted that female arrival rates can be up to 30% higher
than male arrival rates, and male and female arrival rates should be
measured separately wherever possible.
11.2.3.3.3 The following is an indication of likely arrival rates.
a) Short term stay.
These are places where there is a stay of less than an hour.
This is the most variable. For example, if people have arrived from
a long journey, or are breaking a journey, or have a long journey
ahead, the arrival rate will be very high. If it is a local shopping
centre, and people are a short walk from home, the arrival rate
could be very low.
Typical locations are scenic areas, local shopping centres and
bus stations.
22 • © BSI 2010

b) Medium term stay.

These are places where people will spend one to two hours. The
average arrival rate is normally 5% to 10% of the number of
persons in the area.
Typical locations are town centres, tourist sites and large
transport interchanges.
c) Long term stay.
These are areas where people will stay longer than two hours.
The average arrival rate is 10% to 15% of the number of persons
in the area.
Typical locations are large shopping centres, beaches and sports
grounds.
11.2.3.3.4 The arrival rates above may be used where no other data
exists, but they cannot replace the accuracy of actual measurement at
a location.
11.2.3.4 Time a person takes to use the facilities

NOTE These times do not refer to disabled people or people using baby
change facilities who often take much longer to use the facilities. Provision
of separate facilities (see 10.2.4 and 10.3.3) means that this is less likely to
be a problem.
11.2.3.4.1 The average time that a woman spends in a toilet cubicle
is 90 seconds.
11.2.3.4.2 The average time a man spends in a toilet cubicle is
210 seconds, and the average time a man spends at a urinal is
35 seconds. As most male toilet use will be for urination, the overall
average time for a man to use the facilities can be taken as 45 seconds.
11.2.3.4.3 Therefore, for the purposes of the calculation, the average
time a person takes to use the facilities should be taken as 1.5 minutes
for a woman and 0.75 minutes for a man.
11.2.3.4.4 These figures are for WC and urinal use only, and do
not include time spent at washbasins. Therefore, if washbasins are
included within toilet cubicles, an additional 0.5 minutes should be
added to the occupancy time.
11.2.3.5 Period of time used for measurement

11.2.3.5.1 The period of time used for measurement is important.
This is the period of time over which the number of people using the
facilities is measured. The busiest 15 minutes is normally used, and
the arrival rates given in 11.2.3.3 assume a 15 minute time period.
However, where the “surge” effect takes place a shorter time period
might be necessary. A surge is a large number of people wanting to
use the facilities in a very short space of time – typically arriving all at
the same time. This can be from an unloading coach, people leaving
a football ground or nightclub, etc. To avoid long queues and an
unacceptable waiting time, a shorter time period may be used.
11.2.3.5.2 Where use is intermittent throughout a long period of time,
a longer period may be used. This might occur in a park, for example.
© BSI 2010 • 23
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EXAMPLE
An example of the equation given in 11.2.3.1.3 in use is where
500 women (i.e. 500 potential female users in the area) and
600 men (i.e. 600 potential male users in the area) are leaving a late
night entertainment venue. It is assessed that 10% of the women
(i.e. 0.1 of 500 women, which is 50 women) and 10% of the men
(i.e. 0.1 of 600 men, which is 60 men) will wish to use the toilets in a
15 minute period.
The calculation for the women would be:
500 × 0.1 × 1.5
N= =5
15
i.e. 5 WCs would be needed.
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The calculation for the men would be:

600 × 0.1 × 0.75
N= =3
15
i.e. 3 appliances would be needed, including at least 1 WC.
24 • © BSI 2010

Section 3: Siting of toilets

This section gives detailed recommendations on where to put public toilets
at the district/local level, and where to site them within a particular locality.
12 Principles of siting of public toilets at the

local area level
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12.1 General
12.1.1 Local Authorities should ensure that public toilets can easily be
found by users. Toilets should be sited on frequently used routes, for
the benefit of pedestrians, cyclists, public transport passengers and car
users. Public toilets should be sited in open well lit areas where they
are visible and accessible to users.
12.1.2 Toilet providers should ensure that recycling bins, refuse bins or
skips are not sited alongside public toilets.
NOTE Where this recommendation is ignored, access and visibility might
be restricted and unhygienic conditions created. In addition, there might be
an implication that the toilets are “rubbish” too and encourage vandalism.
12.1.3 Cultural and religious considerations might need be taken into
account in deciding where to site public toilets. Public toilets, and
especially open street urinals, should not be sited where they could
cause offence, congestion or a nuisance to pedestrians. For example,
they should not be sited directly alongside bus-stops, in front of, or
close to, building entrances or on narrow footpaths or pavements.
12.1.4 Separate facilities for men and for women should be provided in
preference to unisex facilities, wherever possible. The exception is that
at least one unisex accessible toilet needs to be provided (see 10.3.2).
NOTE Many men and women seek privacy, and many women and
children feel safer when using single sex facilities.
12.1.5 For toilets in parks and playing fields, consideration should
be given to locating them close to an adjacent road where there
might be easier access for maintenance, greater use by passers-by and
increased surveillance which can offer greater personal safety.
12.2 Siting to combat crime and antisocial behaviour

12.2.1 Public toilets should be located close to footpaths and roads.
In built up locations, toilet entrances should face onto the main street
and should be visible from the road.
NOTE Increased foot flow past the toilets is likely to reduce loitering and
increase overall surveillance.
12.2.2 Public toilets can benefit from being located alongside other
public buildings to provide increased surveillance, so the Local Authority
should weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of locating public
toilets in the vicinity of other buildings. Lists of the advantages and
disadvantages are given in Table 2.

© BSI 2010 • 25
Table 2 Advantages and disadvantages of locating public toilets in the

vicinity of other buildings
Advantages Disadvantages
Good security through surveillance Might attract toilet users who will
from other buildings not benefit the local businesses
Likely to be close to existing Toilet users could add to any
services congestion
Can provide useful facilities for Could duplicate facilities for users
users of nearby buildings of nearby buildings
Might draw users to also patronise If and when closed, could lead to
businesses in the vicinity fouling of adjacent buildings by
desperate users
12.2.3 The option of locating public toilets within public buildings

such as libraries, town halls, or even police stations should be
evaluated as an alternative to “stand-alone” toilets.
12.2.4 Siting 24-hour public toilets close to other 24-hour facilities,
such as police stations, hospitals, all night supermarkets and petrol
stations, could provide facilities in a location where they will be
needed, and could also provide the necessary surveillance to deter
antisocial behaviour.
13 Relationship to public transport, parking

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and footpaths
All public toilet users, who include pedestrians, cyclists, public transport
users and car drivers, need to be able to access the public toilets. Car
drivers, for example need a parking space within a reasonable distance of
the toilets if they are to be able to use them.
13.1 Liaison with highways and road safety representatives is an
essential part of the design process.
NOTE Traffic calming schemes and “red route” no-stopping designations
can restrict people’s access to roadside public toilets.
13.2 In most urban situations, existing car parking facilities may be
utilised for users of public toilets. However, where it is appropriate
to provide dedicated parking facilities for public toilets, a short-term
parking bay, which also is suitable for use by disabled motorists,
should be provided (see BS 8300).
13.3 Where cyclists are likely to use the toilets, a bicycle rack may
be provided on an outside wall of the toilet block. The rack should
provide one space for every two cubicles in the toilet block, but
should not create an obstruction to other toilet users or passers-by.
13.4 If existing toilet block entrances and circulation areas are not
large enough to provide easy access for pushchairs and mobility
scooters, then alternative covered, lockable parking places outside the
toilet block should be considered.
13.5 Access to toilets should be as unimpeded as possible. The
following design features should be avoided on approaches: high
kerbs, abrupt changes in level, excessive pavement obstacles such as
bollards and other street furniture.
26 • © BSI 2010

13.6 Where facilities for disabled people are located within the main
toilet block, the entrance and approaches should be suitable for
wheelchair users (see BS 8300).
13.7 Good footpath links should be provided between toilets and
frequently used local destinations such as car parks, bus stops,
pedestrian crossings and tourist coach pickup points.
13.8 Ideally toilets should not be located where access requires people
to cross heavily trafficked streets. If this is unavoidable, a suitable
crossing point should be provided.
14 Principles of site analysis

After it has been decided where the toilets should be located and how
they are to be linked to the surrounding area, a detailed site analysis
needs to be undertaken including both natural and man made features of
the proposed site(s).
14.1 The slope of the site needs to be noted, not only with regard
to drainage constraints, but also with regard to accessibility (see
Clause 15).
14.2 A flood risk assessment of the site should be carried out.
14.3 Where possible, windy locations should be avoided to prevent
doors being blown open or shut and to limit the accumulation of
wind borne debris.
NOTE The orientation of the building and passage-ways is important
otherwise these can act as wind-tunnels. However, controlled air movement
and natural ventilation might be improved by careful siting in relation to
the predominant wind direction.
14.4 Attention should be given to seasonal temperature variations.
While open sunlit locations increase the natural lighting and
attractiveness of the building sites, they might need to be avoided
where there is too much direct sunlight as this can cause overheating
and lead to hygiene problems and unwanted odours. Sheltered sites,
particularly in a hollow or depression might also need to be avoided,
as such sites can have lower winter temperatures which can result in
frozen pipes.
14.5 Careful investigation should be made of the availability and
capacity of services on the site, such as water supply and the sewerage
system or wastewater treatment plants. The availability of fibre-optic
and broadband connections should also be investigated before APCs
which need to communicate to a base are installed.
14.6 A survey of the site should be undertaken, when appropriate, to
ascertain the soil type, the load-bearing capacity of the site, and the
likelihood of subsidence and any existing services in the ground.
NOTE This is particularly important in mining areas and on reclaimed land.
14.7 A local search might need to be undertaken to ascertain details of
outstanding planning applications, tree preservation orders, boundary
clarification and any legal easements, restrictive covenants etc.
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© BSI 2010 • 27
15 Access to and circulation around the

building
Whilst it is important to deter crime through the siting (see 12.2) and
design of public toilets, a balance needs to be struck. Public toilets should
be designed to be accessible, not as fortresses aimed at discouraging
people from using them. Frequent use by the general public is one of the
best ways of deterring antisocial behaviour.
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NOTE For detailed recommendations on access to and circulation around
the building for disabled people see BS 8300.
15.1 Where external boundaries need to be provided, open railings, low
planting or walls may be used but they should not reduce surveillance.
If existing gates, fences, walls and other townscape features are to
be incorporated in the design, care should be taken that access is not
impeded. Well placed shrubs and ground cover plants can keep people
on footpaths and help to deter vandalism. Dense plant cover can
discourage weeds and dogs.
15.2 Space outside the toilet block should also offer a safe, open waiting
area for people, whilst other members of their party use the toilet.
15.3 Provision may be made for dogs to be temporarily tethered while
the owners use the toilet.
15.4 Toilets should ideally be located at ground level. Where possible,
toilets should not be located on steep slopes, or rendered inaccessible by
steps, steep ramps or high thresholds. Where the use of ramps or steps is
unavoidable, they should be in accordance with BS 8300.
NOTE It is not just people using wheelchairs who need easy access, but
also those with pushchairs, luggage or shopping, small children, older
people, ambulant disabled people, blind and partially sighted people and
those with temporary mobility problems.
15.5 Lifts should only be installed as a last resort as they are expensive
to maintain, can be difficult to use and are vulnerable to vandalism.
15.6 In areas where CCTV surveillance is provided, consideration
should be given to including the monitoring of toilet entrances. This
can be an effective deterrent to antisocial behaviour. CCTV coverage
should be in accordance with BS 7958.
16 Signage and information

NOTE See Clause 4 item l) for recommendations on public toilet
information. It is essential that this information is kept up to date (see
also 6.5).
16.1 Good street signage should be provided, pointing the way to the
toilets and indicating how far away the nearest toilet is, and in which
direction. The signs should indicate the availability of both toilets for
non-disabled people and toilets for disabled people.
NOTE Signs which indicate only the latter can be confusing.
16.2 Where community toilets are provided, there should be clear
signage in the immediate area to indicate how the scheme works and
where the toilets are located.
16.3 Where applicable, information on availability of baby changing,
Changing Places facilities and other facilities should be also be shown
on the direction signs. The availability of these facilities, together with
28 • © BSI 2010

the availability of accessible toilets, should also be indicated on signs

by the entrance to the toilets. Where necessary, the type of facility
should also be indicated by a sign on the cubicle door.
NOTE Suitable signs are given in BS 8501 and are reproduced in Annex A
for the convenience of users of this standard.
16.4 All signage should be of an appropriate size to ensure that it
can be easily read by would-be users. Adequate contrast between
the symbol and its background is essential and the symbol should
be given a sufficiently large surrounding area to ensure readability.
Guidance on the use of colour and contrast is given in the Sign design
guide [18].
16.5 Accessible toilets are not only for wheelchair users, but this is
not always recognized by members of the public. A notice should be
displayed adjacent to the cubicle indicating the range of likely users
of these facilities who might have hidden disabilities including, for
example, older people, blind and partially sighted people, people
with artificial limbs, people with colostomies, people with arthritis
and people who have incontinence problems.
16.6 Signs giving the opening and closing times should be clearly
displayed outside the toilets with directions to the nearest 24-hour
toilet that is available to users if the toilet in question is closed.
16.7 In locations where people may gather whose first language is
not English, toilet signage might also need to be provided in other
languages as appropriate; for example, French, German and Japanese
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in tourist areas, and perhaps appropriate additional languages in
areas with large ethnic minority communities.
16.8 Careful thought should be given to signage for blind and
partially sighted people. Whilst some local authorities now provide
Braille signs these can be difficult to locate if placed high up on a wall
with no sensory or tactile trail provided to guide users to the facilities
in the first place.
NOTE See BS 8300 for further guidance.

© BSI 2010 • 29
Section 4: Design of toilet blocks

This section is concerned with the design of the exterior and the interior
of the toilet block with respect to user needs, in terms of ergonomic
and social factors. It is particularly concerned with how the different
components within the toilet cubicles should inter-relate spatially to make
the toilets easier to use. It does not give detailed recommendations on the
design of sanitary facilities that are already covered in BS 6465-1, -2 and -3.
Attention is drawn the Building Regulations[19][20][21] and in particular
to Approved Documents M, and G and H, of the Building Regulations
of England and Wales [11][22][23]. Attention is also drawn to Scottish
Building Standards Technical Handbook Non-domestic (Section 3.12
Sanitary facilities) [12] and the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland)
Technical Booklets R [13], P [24] and N [25].
17 External design
17.1 The block should be constructed of robust materials. Low
maintenance and graffiti resistant materials should be considered. The
design should not include features that would assist people to scale
walls or climb onto the roof.
17.2 Natural light should be used to light the interior wherever
possible. The design should ensure that cubicles as well as the main
circulation areas are adequately lit.
17.3 Use of high level windows or rooflights is preferable as this
provides privacy, and can help to reduce vandalism and improve
security. Sunpipes can also be used to provide natural light.
17.4 Non-opening windows or restrictors on openable windows can
be used to prevent illegal entry. However, natural ventilation should
also be incorporated wherever possible.
17.5 Translucent or obscured glass should be used for privacy where
necessary. Suitably robust glazing should used where there is a risk of
vandalism or illegal entry. A classification of security glazing is given in
BS EN 356.
17.6 Good lighting should be provided outside the toilet entrance.
18 Security
18.1 Ideally, all toilets should be open and available to all users at all
times. However, this might not always be possible.
18.2 In areas where there is concern that people will loiter in the
toilet circulation area, direct access self-contained toilets which open
directly to the pavement might be preferable.
18.3 In the case of APCs and direct access toilets, provision of a one
way spy hole in the door should be considered to enable the user to
see if there is anyone outside.
18.4 Accessible toilets can present greater potential for misuse
owing to their size. However, except where there is actual evidence
of repeated vandalism or misuse, accessible toilets should not be
kept locked. Where these toilets have to be locked at some point
30 • © BSI 2010

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for security, there should be a sign giving directions on obtaining

access. The use of the RADAR (Royal Association for Disability and
Rehabilitation) National Key Scheme (NKS) could allow independent
access for disabled people to these toilets. However, not all disabled
people have RADAR keys and this should be considered as a last resort.
All attendants at such facilities should be provided with a RADAR key.
18.5 Changing Places toilets are normally situated in areas where
there is supervision. If these toilets are kept locked for security reasons,
there should be clear instructions outside on where to obtain the key,
which should be close by. Where an electronic building management
system is in place, an entry phone at the door, and possibly also CCTV,
should be considered. These should be linked to the control room.
Remote locking would allow the control room to allow entry without
an attendant being close by.
19 Internal design
19.1 General
19.1.1 The number and type of appliances and fittings required, i.e.
WCs, urinals, washbasins, showers, and facilities provided for baby
changing, disabled people etc. (see Clause 10), and for attendants,
cleaners, and maintenance personnel, should be determined. Drainage
positions, water supply requirements and waste storage facilities also
need consideration.
19.1.2 All toilet designs should aim to minimize the need for
maintenance and cleaning.
19.1.3 The design should avoid long dark corridors, blind ends, and
spaces to hide within the toilet block. Everything should be light,
well-lit and open and the whole interior of the building should be
as visible as possible to reduce the incidence of, and also the fear of,
antisocial behaviour. This is also important to enable users to view the
availability of cubicles.
19.1.4 The general design recommendations given in BS 6465-1
should be used. The recommendations given in 19.2 to 19.16 relate to
the special requirements of public toilets.
19.2 Entrances to the toilet block

19.2.1 Entrances to the toilet block should be a minimum of 850 mm
clear width to facilitate entry of people with assistance dogs, wheelchairs
and pushchairs. In larger toilets, the entrance should be a minimum of
1 600 mm clear width to ensure people entering and leaving can do so
without congestion. Alternatively, a separate entrance and exit could be
provided.
19.2.2 Where possible, users should not have to open doors to enter
the toilet area. Doorless designs are preferred, but noise, privacy and
prevention of smells also need to be taken into account. The toilet
cubicles and urinals should be screened from the view of people outside
the toilet area.
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© BSI 2010 • 31
19.2.3 If payment is required, the method of collecting this should be

determined. Turnstiles are not allowed in public toilets managed by
Local Authorities, but mechanical gates may be used provided that these
give unimpeded access to all users following payment.
NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the Public Lavatories Turnstiles Act 1963 [26].
NOTE 2 The Public Health Act 1936 [2] prohibited Local Authorities from
charging for the use of urinals. This restriction was removed by Section 22
of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (Amendment) Regulations 2007 [3], and
Local Authorities can now charge for both WC and urinal use.
19.2.4 There has to be suitable access to the facilities for disabled people,
and people with assistance dogs, children, luggage and shopping, etc.
Further guidance is included in BS 8300.
19.2.5 If payment is required, consideration should be given to installing
a machine that will change money for the relevant coins or tokens.
19.3 Circulation space

19.3.1 General space requirements for use of fittings are given in
BS 6465-2. However, adequate circulation space and waiting space is
needed in public toilets, particularly those which are busy.
19.3.2 Space for waste disposal bins, vending machines, hand
drying facilities, and any other fixtures and fittings will need to be
considered at an early design stage to ensure there is adequate
appliance and user space for them, and also that they do not block
circulation areas.
19.3.3 Where possible, layout of the different components relative
to each other and to the circulation space and the entrance(s) and
exit(s) should be designed so that toilets, washbasins and hand
drying facilities are provided in a logical sequence. In particular, it
is important that hand drying facilities are close to the washbasins
and also close to the exits to prevent congestion and not impede
movement of users through the toilet block.
19.3.4 An activity space of 700 mm should be provided in front of
each washbasin, 600 mm in front of each cubicle and 500 mm in front
of each urinal. These should not impinge on the general circulation
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space, and the activity spaces should not overlap.
19.3.5 An additional circulation space of 600 mm minimum should be
provided as well as the activity spaces. For example, WC cubicles in a
corridor would require 1 200 mm in front of the cubicles. If appliances
face each other, e.g. cubicles face washbasins, a 600 mm activity space
would be required in front of the cubicles and a 700 mm activity space
in front of the washbasins, plus one 600 mm circulation space, giving a
total space of 1 900 mm (see Figure 1). The circulation space of 600 mm
is suitable for runs of up to 6 appliances, and should be increased to
900 mm or greater for longer runs. Where a short run of cubicles (up
to 4) face washbasins, the 600 mm activity space may be omitted to
save space. If accessible toilets are included within the main toilet area,
see BS 8300 for relevant circulation space requirements.
19.3.6 Where pushchairs are likely to be brought into the main
toilet area, there should be space to park them without blocking the
circulation space.
32 • © BSI 2010

Figure 1 Activity spaces and circulation space where cubicles face washbasins
Dimensions in millimetres
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Key
Activity space
Circulation space
NOTE 1 This drawing is not to scale.

NOTE 2 Where a short run of cubicles (up to 4) face washbasins, the 600 mm activity space may be omitted
to save space.

© BSI 2010 • 33
19.4 Facilities for attendant

19.4.1 If there is an attendant, he or she should have access to a
space with a seat, coat hook, secure storage for personal belongings,
drinking water and facilities to make hot drinks.
19.4.2 If the attendant is handling money, secure cash handling
facilities need to be considered.
NOTE Attention is drawn to the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations [27].
19.5 Cleaner’s sink and cleaner’s store

19.5.1 A low level cleaner’s sink with bucket grid should be provided.
Ideally this should be sited separately from the toilet facilities.
19.5.2 When cleaning equipment is kept on site, a lockable ventilated
storage area should be provided.
19.5.3 Lockable storage should be provided where necessary for
towels, toilet rolls, soap, cleaning supplies and other consumables.
19.6 Facilities for dealing with waste

Provision of space for storing waste should be considered. Apart from
general waste, e.g. dust, litter and consumables, there will be sanitary
waste (see 19.8.3), and in certain areas needle disposal might need
consideration.
NOTE Sanitary waste includes used tampons, sanitary towels, incontinence
pads and disposable nappies.
19.7 Service corridors

Where possible, service corridors should be provided behind fitments
for access to, and maintenance of, sanitary appliances, fittings and
associated pipework, and the emptying of sanitary waste bins. These
corridors should be wide enough to allow easy access for maintenance
and repair and waste removal and should be accessed via a lockable
entrance.
19.8 Cubicles
NOTE This clause does not cover cubicles suitable for disabled people.
Full details of sizing and of the sanitary appliances, fixtures and fittings,
including their heights, required in these cubicles can be found in BS 8300.
19.8.1 Size
19.8.1.1 Most problems with cubicle design originate from the cubicle
being too small. The necessary size of the cubicle will depend on the
size of the appliances, fixtures and fittings.
19.8.1.2 It is essential that there is a circle of clearance within the
cubicle not less than 450 mm in diameter as recommended in BS 6465-2
to enable the user to enter the cubicle, turn round and close the door.
In a normal rectangular cubicle this should allow a minimum distance
of 250 mm between the front edge of the toilet pan and the path of
the door swing (see Figure 2). No items either on the floor or attached
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34 • © BSI 2010

to the wall (for example toilet paper dispensers) should encroach

on the circle of clearance and the space above it. It is unlikely that
a normal rectangular cubicle narrower than 800 mm wide and less
than 1 700 mm long will be satisfactory. (The length may be reduced
by approximately 200 mm if the cistern is outside the cubicle). If the
cubicle is shorter than this it will probably need to be wider. However,
other shapes and sizes of cubicles should not be ruled out, as long as
the critical dimensions of the circle of clearance and the activity space
can be included in the layout.
19.8.1.3 Women’s toilet cubicles where a floor standing sanitary
disposal bin is to be provided should have a clear space of
210 mm × 540 mm to one side of the pan. This might mean a wider
cubicle is necessary.
19.8.1.4 An example of a general cubicle layout is shown in Figure 2.
More diagrams giving spatial requirements for appliances are
included in BS 6465-2.
Figure 2 Example of a normal rectangular cubicle layout
Key
Circle of clearance. Minimum 450 mm diameter
Activity space
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Disposal bin space

Toilet paper dispenser (can be in any reasonable position outside the circle of clearance)
NOTE This drawing is not to scale.

© BSI 2010 • 35
19.8.1.5 Cubicles in public toilets need to be larger than domestic

toilets as they might contain a sanitary disposal bin, a large toilet
paper dispenser, and hooks for outdoor clothing, and might also need
to accommodate the user’s shopping or baggage. These factors need
to be taken into account when determining the cubicle size. Where
people are likely to be carrying luggage, larger cubicles as shown
in BS 6465-2 should be provided (see Figure 3 for an example). See
also 10.3.2d) for recommendations regarding provision of a larger
cubicle for use by people who need extra space, (e.g. pregnant
women, older people, people with luggage or shopping and people
with children).
Figure 3 Example of a cubicle layout with a luggage zone
Key
Luggage zone

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Circle of clearance. Minimum 450 mm diameter
Activity space

Disposal bin space

Toilet paper dispenser (can be in any reasonable position outside the circle of clearance)
NOTE 1 This drawing is not to scale.

NOTE 2 The 150 mm dimension indicated in the drawing is the maximum distance by which the luggage
zone may overlap the activity space. It is essential that the luggage zone does not impinge upon the circle
of clearance.
NOTE 3 Other configurations which include a luggage zone are shown in BS 6465-2.
36 • © BSI 2010

19.8.2 Cubicle walls and doors

19.8.2.1 Cubicle wall and door design should incorporate the use of
robust materials and fitments. Finishes should be considered that allow
ease of maintenance to remove graffiti.
19.8.2.2 Gaps above and beneath walls and doors are not recommended
for privacy reasons. However, there might be a need for a gap to be
incorporated in some instances to aid ventilation or cleaning. The height
of a cubicle wall or door should be not less than 1 900 mm, and any gaps
beneath walls and doors should not exceed 150 mm.
19.8.2.3 Doors should ideally be hung to fall open, so that vacancies are
clearly visible. Doors should be designed to be openable from outside in
an emergency, and should be removable if necessary. Outward opening
doors should only be used if there is adequate circulation space for
people to pass without being hit by an opening door.
19.8.2.4 Toilet doors should incorporate locks and catches that are
easily operable by people with limited manual dexterity. Locks should
incorporate clearly visible colour coded signage identifying whether
a cubicle is occupied (red = engaged, green = vacant). The coloured
area should be large enough to be clearly visible. It is also helpful if the
words “Engaged”/“Vacant” are also shown for people who are red/
green colour blind.
19.8.3 Sanitary disposal facilities

19.8.3.1 There should be a sanitary disposal facility in every woman’s
toilet cubicle. In new facilities, integral recessed ducted systems are
preferred as they give protection against vandalism and allow more
circulation space within the cubicle. If ducted provision is incorporated,
sufficient space for emptying the unit and carrying out maintenance is
required.
19.8.3.2 If a sanitary disposal bin is used, the cubicle should be large
enough to accommodate the bin without restricting access (see 19.8.1.3
for space needed). In no case should the bin touch or overhang the
toilet seat.
19.8.3.3 A notice may be placed adjacent to, or on, the sanitary bin
defining its use, to encourage visitors to use the bins and not to
attempt to flush away sanitary waste, which could cause blockages.
19.8.3.4 Larger bins for sanitary waste should be provided in accessible
toilets and in baby changing areas.
19.8.4 Toilet paper dispensers

19.8.4.1 Toilet paper dispensers should be positioned within easy reach
of the seated person and should ideally be able to be operated using
one hand only.
19.8.4.2 Toilet paper dispensers should be enclosed to prevent theft and
contamination of paper in areas where this is likely to be a problem.
19.8.4.3 Toilet roll paper might be easier for the user to access than flat
sheets which can jam in the dispenser or cause a litter problem.
19.8.4.4 The main cost of toilet paper is the labour needed to refill the
dispensers, therefore large dispensers should be considered. However,
large dispensers can restrict the space inside a cubicle and their size
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© BSI 2010 • 37
should be taken into account when choosing or positioning them, to

ensure they do not adversely affect the user’s ability to use the toilet.
19.8.5 Support rails

Support rails are incorporated in accessible toilets, and recommendations
for these are covered in BS 8300. If support rails are installed in other
toilets, it should be ensured that they do not restrict the circle of
clearance or user activity space. See 19.8.1.
19.8.6 WC flushing devices

NOTE For the positioning, location and type of WC flushing mechanisms
(cisterns and flushing valves) refer to BS 6465-3.
19.8.6.1 Flushing devices should be clearly visible and accessible to
users. Fittings should be vandal resistant, and should be minimal touch
for ergonomic and hygiene reasons.
19.8.6.2 Where siphon flush WCs are installed, the flush should be
operated manually by a suitable lever. In an accessible toilet, and
elsewhere where the WC flush might be operated by disabled people,
a spatula type lever should be used, and positioned on the open or
transfer side of the pan for ease of access.
19.8.6.3 Where valve flush WCs are installed, the manual operation
buttons should be unambiguously marked and located so that they
are readily visible and easily operated.
NOTE Where dual flush options are used the Water Supply (Water Fittings)
Regulations 1999 [28] apply. These regulations require a discernible method
of actuating and clear permanently marked operating instructions.
19.8.6.4 Where exposed cisterns are installed, the manual operation
buttons should be mounted on the top of the cistern. Where
concealed cisterns are installed, the manual operation buttons should
be installed at a height of between 800 mm to 1 000 mm above the
floor, in a position such that they are not obscured by an open WC
seat lid and are readily visible to the user when standing in front of
the pan. The buttons should be easily operable by people with limited
manual dexterity and when pressed should not create any finger traps
or difficult to clean areas.
NOTE For a button to be easily operable by people with limited manual
dexterity it should be able to be operated by the user using a closed fist
and with less than 30 N force.
19.8.6.5 Alternatively, if automatic flushing is used, it should be
operated by sensor activation (e.g. infra-red or ultrasonic), with the
sensor located at a height of between 800 mm to 1 000 mm above the
floor. In an accessible toilet, and elsewhere where the WC flush might
be operated by disabled people, the sensors or flush buttons should be
positioned on the open or transfer side of the pan for ease of access.
Infra-red and ultrasonic flushing devices have the advantage that they
are non-touch and there are no accessible moving parts within the
toilet cubicle. However, they rely on the continuity of the electrical
supply and might therefore not be suitable for unattended facilities.
19.8.6.6 Where pressure flushing valves are installed it is recommended
that manual operation is not normally used, as the valves could easily
be jammed open and waste large volumes of water. Remote electronic
controlled flushing should be utilized where practicable and the sensor
location should be as for other automatic flushing equipment.
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38 • © BSI 2010

19.8.7 Shelves and hooks

19.8.7.1 Every toilet cubicle should be fitted with a hook, firmly
attached, at a height of approximately 1 500 mm above the floor to
hold outer clothing and bags. The hook should be securely fixed to
reduce the potential for vandalism.
19.8.7.2 Shelving is not recommended within toilet cubicles as it can
be subject to vandalism and misuse. However, accessible toilets should
be provided with shelving in accordance with BS 8300.
19.9 Urinals
19.9.1 Bowl urinals should be spaced a minimum of 700 mm apart.
If privacy screens between urinals are used the urinals should be a
minimum of 800 mm apart. If a trough urinal is used a 700 mm run per
user should be provided. Consideration should be given to screening
urinals from the hand washing area.
19.9.2 Where bowl urinals are used, at least one urinal should be
situated at a lower level suitable for use by men of smaller stature and
by boys.
19.9.3 Waterless urinals are acceptable and can contribute to reducing
water consumption. The type of waterless urinal should be considered
carefully, especially where permanent maintenance staff are not based
on site. See BS 6465-3 for further details.
19.10 Hand washing and drying
19.10.1 Hand washing

19.10.1.1 It is recommended that one washbasin is provided for every
two WCs and one washbasin for every five urinals.
19.10.1.2 Washbasins should be placed at a minimum of 700 mm
centres in accordance with BS 6465-2. Selection and installation of
washbasins should be in accordance with BS 6465-3.
19.10.1.3 Where there are more than two washbasins, at least one
washbasin and a soap dispenser should be situated at a lower level
(720 mm to 750 mm above the floor) for use by children and people of
short stature.
19.10.1.4 Wherever possible, hot water should be provided as well as
cold water. Hot water should be provided in baby changing facilities
and in accessible toilets.
19.10.1.5 Hot and cold taps should be clearly colour coded. Hot water
should be supplied via a temperature control device to avoid the
potential for scalding. (See also BS 6465-3 and BS 8300.)
19.10.1.6 Users should be able to wash their hands with minimal
contact with fittings, therefore lever taps or automatic electronic taps
should be installed where possible.
NOTE If automatic electronic taps are installed it is important to ensure
that the flow of water delivered is adequate for hand washing.
19.10.1.7 Self-closing taps are recommended with either an aerated
or spray flow, set at the correct pressure, to help reduce water
consumption.
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© BSI 2010 • 39
19.10.1.8 If drinking water is provided the supply and associated

drinking water outlet should be marked as such.
19.10.1.9 Soap should be provided in a dispenser. Ideally there should
be a dispenser for each washbasin, but at least one dispenser for every
two basins. These should be placed a sufficient distance above the
washbasin or counter for the user to be able to get their hand under
the dispenser and should be either automatic or easy to operate. Soap
dispensers should be positioned such that any excess soap does not
drip onto the floor.
19.10.1.10 Where space permits, in women’s toilets a separate vanity
area with shelves and mirrors should be provided so that access to the
washbasins is not restricted by people doing their hair and make-up.
This will also reduce loose hairs getting into washbasins, with the
associated maintenance costs.
19.10.2 Hand drying

19.10.2.1 A variety of hand drying methods are suitable for use in
public toilets.
NOTE A table giving more detail on the advantages and disadvantages
of various hand drying methods is given in BS 6465-3:2006, Table 6.
19.10.2.2 Air dryers use electricity, which might rule them out for
some locations. They do not create any waste. The air intake filters
need to be cleaned regularly.
19.10.2.3 Paper towel dispensers generally do not require electricity;
however storage space is required, re-stocking is needed, and the
disposal of waste towels will be necessary. Bins need to be large
enough so that they do not overflow. The use of paper towels for
hand drying is more suitable in toilet areas where the facility is
regularly serviced.
19.10.2.4 Linen roller towels do not create any waste, or use
electricity. They do require regular maintenance and need a reliable
laundry service. They should not be used in areas that might be
subject to vandalism.
19.10.2.5 Paper towel dispensers should be fitted at a height of
approximately 950 mm above the floor. Air dryers should be fitted at
the height recommended by the manufacturer.
19.10.2.6 One towel dispenser should be provided per four washbasins
or one warm air dryer per three washbasins.
19.11 Baby changing

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19.11.1 Baby changing facilities should be an integral part of all public

toilet block design. (See 10.2 for general recommendations.)
19.11.2 A baby changing surface 900 mm in depth should be provided,
but if this is impractical in retrofitted toilets a fold-down baby changing
unit with security straps or safety barriers should be provided.
19.11.3 Where possible changing surfaces or units should be mounted
750 mm above the floor or a height-adjustable unit should be
provided. Further guidance on accessible baby changing facilities is
given in BS 8300.
19.11.4 A wall mounted toddler seat with restraints may be placed
near the changing surface or unit if space permits.
40 • © BSI 2010

19.11.5 A clearly labelled nappy disposal bin with lid should be

provided.
19.11.6 Nappy dispensing machines should be considered in public
toilets where high usage is expected.
19.12 Other design issues
19.12.1 Materials and surfaces

19.12.1.1 Exposed surfaces inside the toilet block need to be robust,
hygienic and easy to clean, however they should also be resistant to
graffiti and vandalism. Reflective surfaces should not be used where
these could compromise privacy.
19.12.1.2 Toilet areas should be designed to allow for easy cleaning
and maintenance and should, where practical, avoid gaps and crevices
which can have an adverse affect on hygiene and also provide places
where people can dispose of, or hide, items.
19.12.1.3 Sharp edges and corners should be avoided to reduce the
risk of people injuring themselves.
19.12.2 Walls
19.12.2.1 Wall should be constructed of impact resistant materials
and should be capable of supporting any grab rails or fittings that
might be attached to them. Wall finishes should be impervious. Walls
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should be tiled or stippled to discourage graffiti. However, bacteria
and mould can be harboured on irregular textured surfaces so longer
term maintenance of the finishes should be considered as part of the
design process.
NOTE White and pale/pastel colours provide better light and a cleaner
appearance but can also encourage graffiti.
19.12.2.2 To meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people
there should be a colour contrast between doors and walls, and grab
rails. BS 8300 gives further details.
19.12.3 Floors
19.12.3.1 Floors should be slip resistant to reduce the chances of
people slipping and falling. Continuous waterproof flooring should be
used in preference to material with joins and the flooring should be
continued up the walls to provide a waterproof skirting.
19.12.3.2 Where there is a risk of water collecting on the floor this
could be reduced by sloping the floor to a drain. A gradient of 1:80 is
recommended. Drainage outlets should be compatible with the floor
finish and should incorporate a flooring membrane clamping device
where necessary.
19.12.3.3 Wherever possible, all facilities within the toilet should be
at the same level with no steps, thresholds or slopes.
NOTE Attention is drawn to the requirements for all stairs and ramps
in the Building Regulations [19][20][21] and Approved Document M to
the Building Regulations for England and Wales [11]. Attention is also
drawn to Scottish Building Standards Technical Handbook Non-domestic
(Section 3.12 Sanitary facilities) [12] and the Building Regulations
(Northern Ireland) Technical Booklet R [13].

© BSI 2010 • 41
19.12.4 Ceilings
Demountable ceilings should be avoided to prevent misuse, for
example hiding drugs or stolen goods. High ceilings can help to
reduce vandalism to ceiling finishes.
19.12.5 Fittings
19.12.5.1 General
19.12.5.1.1 All hardware, fixtures and fittings should be easily
accessible for repair and maintenance.
19.12.5.1.2 All sanitary appliances should be in accordance with
BS 6465-3.
19.12.5.1.3 Consideration should be given to using aluminium,
stainless steel or pre‑fabricated polymer materials instead of
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traditional porcelain for WC pans, urinals and washbasins, as these

can be more resistant to vandalism.
19.12.5.1.4 Where vandalism could be a problem, use of sanitary
fittings specially designed to be resistant to deliberate damage should
be considered.
19.12.5.1.5 Wall hung WC pans should be used in preference to
pedestal WC pans to aid long term maintenance and cleaning.
19.12.5.1.6 Notices giving a contact name, contact point or telephone
number in the event of complaints or problems are recommended.
These should be clearly displayed. The notices can also be used for
recording the cleaning regime.
19.12.5.2 Mirrors
Mirrors should conform to BS EN 1036-1 and -2, and should be shatter
resistant. Mirrors should not be placed where they could compromise
privacy. Mirrors should be flush fitted to avoid gaps where items could
be left.
19.12.5.3 Dispensers
Dispensers for female sanitary protection, nappies and condoms
should be provided where possible.
NOTE 1 Consideration should be given to providing such dispensers in
accessible toilets.
NOTE 2 Dispensers for other items e.g. toothbrushes, tights and aspirin,
may be considered.
19.12.5.4 Drinking water

Where drinking water provision is made, this should be clearly labelled
and located away from other sanitary appliances.
19.13 Plumbing
NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the Building Regulations Approved
Documents G and H [22][23] for England and Wales, and the Water Supply
(Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 [28] which specify requirements for
water supply and drainage systems. Attention is also drawn to Scottish
42 • © BSI 2010

Building Standards Technical Handbook Non-domestic (Section 3.12

Sanitary facilities) [12] and the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland)
Technical Booklets P [24] and N [25].
NOTE 2 Requirements for the design of water supply systems are given
in BS 6700 and BS EN 806.
19.13.1 Cold water storage tanks should be well insulated to ensure
that the water temperature is kept well below 20 °C to avoid the risk
of Legionella bacteria.
19.13.2 Frost protection measures are recommended for use with
all water services piping distribution and storage in unheated public
toilets to prevent freezing.
19.13.3 All water pipes (hot and cold) should be insulated and long
pipe runs should be avoided.
19.13.4 Where mains pressure or flow rate are insufficient to allow
the sanitary facilities to function, cold water storage might need
to be considered. If cold water storage is used, depending on the
available pressure head from the storage cistern (i.e. height above
water outlets) a pump might also be necessary to achieve the required
pressures for system operation.
19.13.5 WC refill times are critical where the facilities are busy or
water pressure is low. System design should take this into account.
NOTE Flow regulators on taps and other outlets, plus low flush cisterns,
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can reduce water consumption. Flow regulators can also help balance
pressures.
19.13.6 The method of energy supply used for the heating of hot
water for use within the public toilet should be considered carefully.
Options such as solar powered water heaters, gas fired water heaters
and electric point of use or storage type heaters can all be considered.
If solar water heating is being considered, orientation of the roof,
vulnerability to vandalism and appropriateness in the context of
historic buildings and conservation areas should be taken into account.
19.13.7 Any stored water heating system needs appropriate time
controls to take account of the normal opening hours, days and
seasons.
19.13.8 Factory insulated hot water storage cylinders should be used.
19.13.9 Hot water from any source (whether point of use or stored)
should, ideally, be automatically blended at the tap to 43 °C, which is
a suitable temperature for hand washing.
NOTE Where hot water is provided in toilets for disabled people a
blended supply is a requirement of the Building Regulations [19][20][21].
19.13.10 Where water supply from the tap is hotter than 43 °C, a
warning notice should be displayed to indicate that there is a risk of
scalding.
19.13.11 Sediment traps might be required, particularly for toilet blocks
on sandy beaches where visitors wash out swimming costumes etc.
19.13.12 Pipework and cisterns should be enclosed in ducts where
possible to reduce the risk of vandalism. Access panels and ducts should
be made as vandal resistant as possible while still permitting access for
maintenance and repair work.

© BSI 2010 • 43
19.14 Lighting
19.14.1 Natural light should be incorporated wherever possible in all
areas, including cubicles. (See Clause 17 for guidance on designing for
daylight.)
19.14.2 The design should ensure that cubicles are adequately lit.
19.14.3 Where electric lighting is provided, movement activated
lighting, or automatic lighting that comes on at dusk, should be
considered. Alternatively, where there is an attendant, manual light
switches under the attendant’s control may be used. Light pulls and
light switches that need to be operated by the user should be avoided
where possible for hygiene reasons.
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19.14.4 Provision of electric lighting should be in accordance with the

CIBSE Code for lighting [29]. Particular attention should be paid to
the positioning of lights over toilet cubicles to ensure they are not in
shadow.
19.14.5 Light sensitive PIR (passive infra-red) detectors can be used to
allow artificial lighting to supplement natural light where needed.
19.14.6 Energy efficient lamps should be used to help to minimize the
use of electricity. Halogen and spot lamps are not recommended as
they use more electricity and cost more to run.
19.14.7 Light bulbs should not be accessible to toilet users. This can be
achieved by the use of high level lighting or secure covers.
19.14.8 Consideration should be given to the need for access to
change light bulbs.
19.14.9 Photovoltaic panels may be considered to supplement the
electricity supply for lighting, particularly in remote locations.
19.14.10 Ultraviolet light is sometimes used to deter drug users.
However, this is not effective and should not be used as it reduces
visibility for all toilet users, especially visually impaired people.
19.15 Ventilation
19.15.1 Natural ventilation should be used wherever possible.
19.15.2 Natural ventilation can be achieved by the positioning of
entrance and exit doors, air vents in walls and windows, and openable
windows. (See Clause 17 for guidance on window design.) If natural
ventilation is used, there should be the facility to increase ventilation
in summer months to prevent overheating and smells.
19.15.3 If mechanical ventilation is used it should be activated by a
passive infra-red (PIR) movement detection system so that extract fans
are not running continuously. However, it is recommended that they
incorporate minimum run timers to ensure adequate air change rates
are achieved.
NOTE For minimum air change rates refer to the Building Regulations
[19][20][21].
19.15.4 Good ventilation is essential to help to prevent condensation.
19.15.5 Air fresheners should not be used as a substitute for proper
ventilation and cleaning.
44 • © BSI 2010

19.16 Heating
19.16.1 Measures should be taken to prevent pipes freezing.
19.16.2 Where practicable, the ambient temperature of the toilets
should be maintained at a minimum of 10 °C to reduce condensation.
Higher temperatures are preferred by users but could be unsustainable
and might encourage loitering.
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© BSI 2010 • 45
Section 5: Management of toilet blocks
20 Management and staffing

Public toilets are major investments, so it is important that they are
watched over and cared for. A toilet attendant can provide on-the-spot
security and management which can save money that would otherwise be
spent repairing the effects of vandalism. They can also initiate or complete
prompt maintenance or repairs and provide reassurance to users that
assistance is readily available if needed.
20.1 Attendants and toilet cleaning staff may be the responsibility
of the Authority responsible for providing the toilets or a specialist
toilet provider (contractor) that completes cleaning (and possibly
maintenance) of the toilets. The standards described apply equally to
all staff engaged in the cleaning and maintenance of public toilets.
Service level agreements (SLAs) will provide the basis by which
contractors provide service and against which they are measured.
20.2 Toilet facilities with more than 12 cubicles should ideally have
an attendant.
20.3 Wherever possible, and budgets are available, toilet attendants
and cleaners should be employed who are of the same sex as the
users of the facility for which they are responsible. Where this is not
possible, a sign should be displayed at the entrance to the toilets
advising users that an opposite sex attendant might be present
within the toilets. Staff should be advised to announce that they
are intending to enter an opposite sex toilet to perform their duties
before entering, to alert occupiers and to give them time to leave if
they wish.
20.4 Higher standards of cleaning are achieved by having clear
cleaning specifications and properly trained staff. Attention should
be given to the training of toilet attendants and cleaners through, for
example, the BICS (British Institute of Cleaning Science) NVQ courses.
20.5 It is essential that training includes the special care needed when
cleaners remove any sharps and other potentially contaminated items,
e.g. soiled nappies, incontinence pads. Personal protective equipment
(PPE) should be provided as required, including pickers and protective
gloves.
20.6 It is essential that there are policies and procedures laid down
on dealing with emergencies, for example major leaks, fires, people
having accidents or being taken ill or people pulling the alarm cord.
Staff should be trained in how to respond in case of such emergencies.
20.7 Consideration should be given to making each attendant and
cleaner responsible for a particular toilet or set of toilets as they
are then more likely to take a pride in their work than if they share
responsibility for many toilets.
20.8 Attendants and cleaners should be included in toilet management
and liaison meetings so that they understand why certain things are
required. For example, it should be explained to them that if they
shorten the length of the emergency pull cord in the toilet for disabled
people by tying it up to make cleaning easier, then if someone falls
down on the floor they won’t be able to reach it.
46 • © BSI 2010

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20.9 Attendants and cleaners should have a chance to give their

views on a new toilet design before it is approved, as they can tell
if it will be easy to clean and whether there will be other, otherwise
unforeseen, problems.
20.10 Toilet providers should consider participating in award schemes
for the facilities and for attendants. This will provide the opportunity
for the facilities and the attendants to be recognized and rewarded
for their high standards of public toilet provision.
20.11 Public toilets require a higher level of quality measurement and
overall management than historically provided, due to the low level
of priority normally allocated to this essential public service.
20.12 There should be a telephone number, an e-mail address and/or
a website, and a postal address displayed so that users can report any
problems, particularly where there is no attendant.
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21 Cleaning
The importance of a high standard of cleanliness cannot be overstated
and is the best way to prevent misuse and minimize the infection risks
that un-hygienic facilities present.
21.1 Cleaning equipment and consumable products should be stored
in a designated lockable space which is well organized to avoid
clutter. (See 19.5.) It is important that cleaning equipment, such as
mops and buckets, and maintenance equipment is not left lying
around where toilet users could fall over it. All chemicals should be
safely and securely stored when not in use.
21.2 In high usage, attended toilets the toilets should be cleaned
every hour, and in low usage locations four times daily by mobile
cleaners. It is recognized that this requirement will be impractical
in some remote locations, and in these instances facilities should be
checked and cleaned at least once or twice a day where possible.
21.3 Monitoring of cleaning activities through daily or weekly
inspections is considered good practice to help maintain high
standards. Inspections by senior provider management should take
place once per week in high usage locations and once a month in
low usage locations, to ensure that proper standards of hygiene
[and service level agreements (SLAs)] are being adhered to by local
operatives.
21.4 When toilet paper is topped up (which needs to be done
regularly) the highest levels of cleanliness should be observed when
putting toilet paper into dispensers as this paper touches intimate
parts of the user’s body.
21.5 Sanitary protection bins should be emptied regularly, by the
cleaning staff or contracted washroom service providers. Sanitary
waste, used incontinence pads and nappies should be placed in the
appropriate colour coded disposal bags prior to removal to a certified
Waste Transfer Station.
21.6 All cleaning materials should be compatible with the sewerage
system and sewage treatment system in place.
21.7 It is essential that a good cleaning regime is established for all
urinals, whether waterless or not.

© BSI 2010 • 47
22 Maintenance
Clean and well maintained toilets are less likely to be abused than toilets
that are neglected. Overall costs of toilet provision will also be reduced
by effective management of reactive and proactive maintenance whilst
ensuring continuity of provision to users.
22.1 All maintenance equipment allocated for use in the toilet should
be locked up in the dedicated area provided for it. (See 19.5.)
22.2 Prompt reactive maintenance is essential for all toilets. Any
broken or defective fixtures and fittings should be repaired or
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replaced to ensure usability and the safe use of the facilities.
22.3 Dripping taps and overflowing cisterns should be repaired as
quickly as possible to avoid wastage of water and potential slipping
hazards caused by wet floors.
NOTE Remote monitoring and automatic leak detection devices are
available.
22.4 There should be a preventative maintenance schedule, e.g. to
ensure that in hard water areas (where water softeners are not fitted),
taps and appliances can be de-scaled regularly, lights are working
effectively, and surfaces can be cleaned to hygienic levels.
22.5 Graffiti removal from various surfaces can be a tedious and
frustrating process. The best solutions lie in effective prevention,
together with the use of building materials and finishes which resist
the application of graffiti, as well as removal of graffiti at the earliest
opportunity.
22.6 Regular checks should be made for illicit spy holes, viewing
equipment, and other holes made for the purposes of illegal activities,
which should be dealt with promptly.
22.7 Use of CCTV monitoring equipment adjacent to toilets helps
members of the public feel more secure when approaching and
entering the toilet building and might reduce the incidence of antisocial
behaviour, particularly when clear signage has warned of legal action
against identifiable offenders. The use of overt CCTV monitoring
within the toilet washing or cubicle access areas may also be considered
necessary, and beneficial, for the same reasons as external CCTV, in
toilets which are regularly vandalized or used for antisocial purposes.
CCTV coverage should be in accordance with BS 7958.
48 • © BSI 2010

Annex A (informative) Examples of signs for public toilets and

associated facilities
Examples of signs for public toilets and associated facilities are given
in Figure A.1 to Figure A.10.
NOTE These signs (with the exception of Figure A.10) have been copied
from BS 8501 for the convenience of users of this standard.
Figure A.1 Direction arrow
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Figure A.2 Ladies’ toilet

© BSI 2010 • 49
Figure A.3 Gentlemen’s toilet
Figure A.4 Unisex toilet
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50 • © BSI 2010

Figure A.5 Accessible toilet facilities
Figure A.6 Ladies’ and accessible toilet facilities

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© BSI 2010 • 51
Figure A.7 Gentlemen’s and accessible toilet facilities
Figure A.8 Baby changing facilities

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52 • © BSI 2010

Figure A.9 Showers
Figure A.10 Changing Places toilet facilities
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© BSI 2010 • 53
Bibliography
Standards publications
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.
BS 6700, Design, installation, testing and maintenance of services
supplying water for domestic use within buildings and their
curtilages – Specification
BS 8501, Graphical symbols and signs – Public information symbols
BS EN 356, Glass in building – Security glazing – Testing and
classification of resistance against manual attack
BS EN 806 (all parts), Specification for installations within buildings
conveying water for human consumption
Other publications
[1] COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT. Improving access to
better quality toilets – A strategic guide CLG, 2008.
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[2] GREAT BRITAIN. Public Health Act 1936. London: The Stationery
Office.
[3] GREAT BRITAIN. Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (Amendment)
Regulations 2007. London: The Stationery Office.
[4] ROYAL TOWN PLANNING INSTITUTE. Gender mainstreaming
toolkit. London: RTPI, 2003 1).
[5] ROYAL TOWN PLANNING INSTITUTE. Gender and spatial
planning: Good practice guide. Planning Advice Note, PAN 7.
London: RTPI, 2007.
[6] DEPARTMENT FOR TRANSPORT. Policy for service areas and other
roadside facilities on motorways and all-purpose trunk roads in
England. DFT Circular 01/2008 Department for Transport, 2008.
[7] GREAT BRITAIN. Town and Country Planning Act 1990. London:
The Stationery Office.
[8] COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT. Improving public
access to toilets: Guidance on community toilet schemes and
Satlav. CLG, 2008.
[9] GREAT BRITAIN. Local Authorities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act
1972. London: The Stationery Office.
[10] GREAT BRITAIN. Equality Act 2010. London: The Stationery Office.
[11] GREAT BRITAIN. The Building Regulations 2000 – Approved
Document M – Access and facilities for disabled people. 2009
edition. London: The Stationery Office.
[12] SCOTTISH BUILDING STANDARDS AGENCY. Scottish Building
Standards Technical Handbook Non-domestic. London: The
Stationery Office, 2009.
1) Available at www.rtpi.org.uk.
54 • © BSI 2010

[13] NORTHERN IRELAND DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND PERSONNEL.

The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 Technical
Booklet R – Access to and use of buildings. Belfast: The Stationery
Office, 2006.
[14] DEPARMENT FOR TRANSPORT and TRANSPORT SCOTLAND.
Accessible train station design for disabled people: A code of
practice. Version 2. London: The Stationery Office, 2010.
[15] GREAT BRITAIN. Select Committee Report. The provision of public
toilets, HCH 636 2007-8. London: The Stationery Office.
[16] GREAT BRITAIN. Command Paper Cm 7530 Government Response
to the Communities and Local Government Committee Report
on the provision of public toilets. London: The Stationery Office.
2009.
[17] COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT. Report: Lifetime
homes, lifetime neighbourhoods: A national strategy for housing
in an aging society. CLG 2008.
[18] BARKER, P., and FRASER, J. Sign design guide. A guide to inclusive
signage. Sign Design Society and JMU Access Partnership, 2000 2).
[19] GREAT BRITAIN. Building Regulations 2010 (SI No. 2010 2214).
London: The Stationery Office.
[20] SCOTLAND. Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 (SI No. 2004 406).
Edinburgh: The Stationery Office.
[21] GREAT BRITAIN. Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000
(SI No. 2000 389). Belfast: The Stationery Office.
Document G – Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency.
London: The Stationery Office, 2010.
Document H – Drainage and waste disposal. London: The
Stationery Office, 2002.
--``,`,```,`,`,`````````,```,``,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Booklet P Unvented hot water storage systems 1994 ( as amended).
Belfast: The Stationery Office.
Booklet N Drainage 1990 ( as amended). Belfast: The Stationery
Office.
[26] GREAT BRITAIN. Public Lavatories Turnstiles Act 1963. London:
HMSO.
[27] GREAT BRITIAN. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations 1992. London: The Stationery Office.
[28] GREAT BRITAIN. Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.
London: The Stationery Office.
[29] CHARTERED INSTITUTION OF BUILDING SERVICES ENGINEERS.
Code for lighting. London: CIBSE, 2009.
2) Available from the Sign Design Society, 5 Longton Grove, Sydenham,

London SE26 6QQ, UK.

© BSI 2010 • 55
Further reading
CENTRE FOR ACCESSIBLE ENVIRONMENTS. The Good Loo Design
Guide, London: CAE, 2004.
CHUANGYANG, X. Code of Practice for Management of Public Toilets.
World Toilet Forum Conference Proceedings Shanghai, 2005.
COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT. Strong and Prosperous
Communities. Local Government White Paper. London: Department of
Communities and Local Government, Cmd No.6939-1 and -2, 2006.
DEPARTMENT OF STANDARDS MALAYSIA (2006) Public Toilets Part 1:
Minimum Design Criteria. Kuala Lumpur: Department of Standards
Malaysia, 2006.
GOLDSMITH, S. Universal Design, London: Architectural Press, 2001.
GREED, C. Inclusive Urban Design: Public Toilets. Oxford: Architectural
Press, 2003.
GREED, C. and ROBERTS, M. Introducing Urban Design, Interventions
and responses. London: Longmans, 2001
HANSON, J., GREED, C. and BICHARD, J. Inclusive design of public
toilets in city centres. Vivacity: Sustainable Urban Environments –
Urban Sustainability for the Twenty-Four Hour City. London: EPSRC
(Engineering and Physical Science Research Council), 2004.
HANSON, J., BICHARD, J.-A., and GREED, C. The Accessible Toilet
Design Resource. Vivacity Research Programme. London: UCL, 2007.
HELP THE AGED. Nowhere to go – Public toilet provision in the UK.
London: Help the Aged, 2007.
KIRA, A. The Bathroom. Harmonsworth: Penguin, 1976.
JONES, P., ROBERTS, M. and MORRIS, L. Rediscovering Mixed‑use Streets:
The contribution of local high streets to sustainable communities. Bristol:
Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 2007.
MIYANISHI, Y. Comfortable Public Toilets: Design and Maintenance
Manual. Japan, Toyama: City Planning Department, 1996.
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AGENCY. A Guide to Better Public Toilet
Design and Maintenance. Singapore: National Environment Agency in
--``,`,```,`,`,`````````,```,``,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
association with Restroom Association, 2005.
ROBERTS, M. Good Practice in Managing the Evening and Late Night
Economy, A literature review from an environmental perspective.
London: ODPM, 2004.
SHIOHIKO, T. (2003) Toilets in sightseeing areas. Paper given at
World Toilet Summit, Tapei, Taiwan. Singapore: World Toilet
Organisation, 2003.
SOIFER, S. Shy Bladder Syndrome, Oakland, USA: Harbinger, 2001.
56 • © BSI 2010

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ii • © BSI 2010

Relationship with other publications

scales of provision of sanitary and associated appliances;

Use of this document

Contractual and legal considerations

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iv • © BSI 2010

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BS 6465-2, Sanitary installations – Part 2: Code of practice for space

3 Terms and definitions

3.3 activity space

3.6 automatic public convenience

3.7 Changing Places toilet

Copyright British Standards Institution

3.8 circulation space

3.13 public toilet

3.16 self-contained toilet

Copyright British Standards Institution

Section 2: Public toilet strategy

j) A financial planning and charging policy.

5 Liaison and exchange of information

Copyright British Standards Institution

6 Survey of existing toilet provision

d) Facilities, including rooms for attendants, cleaning facilities, and

7 Identifying user groups and user needs

women and men, members of ethnic minority communities, religious

8 Public toilet spatial strategy

10 • © BSI 2010

8.2 Identification of areas needing public toilet provision

8.3 Hierarchy of toilet locations

8.3.2 Heavy use areas

Copyright British Standards Institution

people can access without having to enter private premises.

8.3.3 Medium use areas

8.3.4 Low use areas

12 • © BSI 2010

8.3.4.4 It is recommended that at least one toilet facility should be

8.4 Toilets for motorists

8.5 Remote locations

Copyright British Standards Institution

8.6 Priority of provision

8.7 Future provision

9 Types of toilet provision

Table 1 Types of public toilet provision

14 • © BSI 2010

Table 1 Types of public toilet provision (continued)

Type Advantages Disadvantages

Copyright British Standards Institution

Table 1 Types of public toilet provision (continued)

Date Text affected