Cal/OSHA Jobsite Toilet Rules: How Many You Need
California jobsites follow Cal/OSHA Title 8 §1526, which is stricter than the federal OSHA table in one key way: it counts each sex separately. Here is what that means for your crew.
What is the Cal/OSHA jobsite toilet ratio?
Cal/OSHA §1526 requires at least 1 toilet facility for every 20 employees, or fraction of 20, of each sex. Up to half of the required facilities may be urinals. Under temporary field conditions, at least 1 toilet must be available.
Source: Title 8 §1526.
What if I have fewer than 5 workers?
Sites with fewer than 5 employees can use 1 single-user toilet designated for all-gender use. A standard porta potty with a door latch meets that. Most home remodels, roof jobs and small solar installs fall here, so one unit with weekly service covers the crew.
Worked examples
| Crew | Math | Minimum toilets |
|---|---|---|
| 4 workers | Under 5, all-gender | 1 |
| 18 men | 18 ÷ 20 rounds up | 1 |
| 30 men, 6 women | Men 2 + women 1 | 3 |
| 55 men | 55 ÷ 20 rounds up | 3 |
What about cleaning and paper?
Cal/OSHA requires jobsite toilets to be kept clean, in good working order and stocked with toilet paper. Our weekly service covers this for most crews. Crews of 10 or more in summer heat may need a second weekly visit.
How does federal OSHA compare?
Federal OSHA 29 CFR 1926.51 Table D-1 counts the whole crew: 20 or fewer workers need 1 toilet; 20 or more need 1 seat and 1 urinal per 40. California's rule applies in California and is the one inspectors here use.
29 CFR 1926.51. Not legal advice; ask your safety officer.