The updated WorkSafe guidance covers essential topics, including what all-gender toilet facilities are and when they should be provided in the workplace. It also includes updated practical case studies for businesses and links to additional resources.
An all-gender toilet facility if a toilet that does not have gendered signage and can be used by anyone. They should contain a sanitary disposal unit and be ambulant accessible wherever possible. An ambulant accessible toilet is one which is fully accessible by people with disability or access needs.
All employees need access to clean and hygienic toilet facilities at work – different employees may have different needs when it comes to access to facilities at work, whether because of gender identity, access needs, faith or religion.
The Workplace facilities and the working environment compliance code sets out what WorkSafe considers to be the minimum number of toilets, urinals and washbasins provided for employees in a workplace, so far as is reasonably practicable. For example, a single all-gender toilet may be provided for all employees in a workplace with 10 or less employees – if only one toilet is provided, it needs to be a fully accessible facility.
Employers have a duty under s.35 of the OHS Act to consult with HSRs and employees about workplace facilities – employers should consider creative ways, such as anonymous surveys, to conduct this consultation as some employees may not be comfortable discussing their needs.
Read more: All-gender toilet facilities in the workplace | WorkSafe Victoria