Post by michael hicklin CMIOSH, fCMgr

Work place welfare facilities Regulation 20(2)(b) of the Workplace Regulations 1992 explicitly states that sanitary conveniences and the rooms containing them must be kept in a "clean and orderly condition." Failing to do so is a direct breach of UK health and safety law.What "Clean" Means Under HSE GuidanceTo comply with the HSE Workplace Toilets Code of Practice, employers must ensure the following standard of upkeep:Routine Cleaning: A regular, structured cleaning schedule must be active. High-contact areas like toilet seats, flush handles, taps, and door handles must be disinfected frequently.Easy-to-Clean Surfaces: Walls and floors should ideally be tiled or lined with waterproof materials to make proper sanitisation possible.Waste Management: Sanitary bins must be emptied discreetly on a strict schedule. General trash cannot be left to accumulate.Odour and Blockage Control: Any leaks, persistent bad smells, or plumbing blockages must be handled immediately through prompt reactive maintenance.Essential RestockingA toilet is not legally "suitable" if it lacks core supplies. Employers must keep the area continuously stocked with:Toilet paperSoap or alternative washing agentsHygienic hand-drying options (e.g., paper towels or a functioning hot-air dryer)If your employer is failing to maintain basic hygiene levels, workers have the right to raise the issue internally or, if ignored, report the facility conditions directly to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).