What Must Construction Sites Consider About Wastewater and Welfare Usage?
Construction site managers have a responsibility to provide essential welfare facilities for their workforce, including access to clean drinking water, proper sanitation, and washing stations. This blog outlines what construction sites must consider about wastewater and welfare usage along with how businesses in the construction industry can manage these factors effectively.
What are the six welfare requirements?
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) outline six key welfare requirements that must be provided on construction sites for the health, safety, and welfare of construction workers. These are:
- Sanitary conveniences: Sites must provide adequate toilet facilities that are clean, well-ventilated and supplied with toilet paper. Toilets should either be connected to the mains sewage system or, if this is not possible, be regularly serviced portable toilets.
- Washing facilities: Washing stations must be located near toilets and should include running water, soap, and towels or other drying facilities. If workers are handling hazardous substances, additional washing facilities may be required for proper decontamination.
- Drinking water: Workers must have access to sufficient quantities of clean, potable drinking water. The water should be clearly labelled as drinking water and easily accessible to workers throughout the day.
- Changing rooms: If workers are required to wear special clothing or protective gear, the site must provide changing rooms. These should be separate for men and women, secure, and equipped with seating, storage for clothing, and facilities to dry wet clothing.
- Rest facilities: Workers must have access to a rest area away from the working environment. This area should be clean, have seating with backs, and be equipped with facilities to prepare and consume food and hot drinks.
- Facilities for pregnant women and nursing mothers: Suitable rest facilities must be provided for pregnant women and nursing mothers. These should be located in a quiet, private area and include a place to lie down if necessary.
What types of wastewater do construction projects produce?
Construction sites generate different forms of wastewater, all of which must be managed in accordance with specific environmental regulations to prevent harm and cross-contamination with welfare facilities. The main types of wastewater include:
- Domestic wastewater: Generated by welfare facilities such as toilets, showers, and canteens, this type of wastewater contains human waste, soap, food residue, and cleaning chemicals. Sites using portable chemical toilets must have a system for regular servicing and emptying to maintain hygiene. Domestic wastewater is subject to regulations under the Water Resources Act 1991 and the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016, which mandate the safe treatment and disposal of waste, whether through septic tanks, holding tanks, or sewer connections.
- Trade effluent: Water used in construction activities can become contaminated with substances like concrete, oils, and chemicals. This is referred to as trade effluent. Trade effluent requires separate handling due to the hazardous materials it contains. Discharge of trade effluent into public sewers is regulated under the Water Industry Act 1991, which requires businesses to obtain consent from local water authorities. Additionally, sites discharging directly into watercourses must comply with the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016, and ensure the wastewater is treated to prevent environmental pollution.
- Surface water runoff: Rainwater or water used in construction processes can carry pollutants such as sediment, oils, and other debris into local water bodies or drainage systems. Uncontrolled runoff may result in breaches of the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations 1994 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990, which govern the discharge of contaminated water. Measures such as silt traps, bunding, or interceptors must be in place to capture contaminants and prevent pollution of natural water sources.
Why is regular welfare servicing important?
Regular welfare servicing is essential for maintaining the hygiene and functionality of facilities on construction sites. Keeping toilets, washing stations, and drinking water supplies clean and operational prevents the spread of harmful bacteria and reduces the risk of infectious diseases. Properly serviced welfare facilities also contribute to the smooth running of a site by minimising disruptions caused by malfunctioning or unclean facilities.
Workers are able to take shorter, more efficient breaks when facilities are well-maintained, which can improve both productivity and morale. Additionally, regular servicing allows wastewater to be collected, transported and disposed of correctly, reducing the risk of environmental contamination and supporting the site’s compliance with environmental regulations.
Universal Tankers' approach to construction welfare and wastewater
At Universal Tankers, we recognise the operational demands construction sites face in managing welfare facilities and wastewater. With our extensive range of services, we help businesses in the construction sector fulfil their legal obligations efficiently and deliver smooth on-site operations.
- Non-potable water deliveries: Construction activities often require water for tasks such as dust suppression, tool cleaning and other non-drinking purposes. We provide a reliable supply of non-potable water directly to your site, delivered in the required volumes and tailored to the specific needs of your project.
- Potable water deliveries: Providing workers with access to clean, safe drinking water is a fundamental aspect of any construction site’s welfare setup. We deliver potable water that meets drinking standards and is accessible throughout the workday. Whether your site requires a one-time bulk delivery or regular replenishment, Universal Tanker's potable water delivery services guarantee that your team has consistent access to high-quality drinking water.
- Septic tank emptying: Our septic tank emptying services are designed to keep your sanitation systems functioning efficiently. We offer regular and on-demand servicing for portable welfare units and septic tanks, to remove and dispose of waste safely. By preventing overflows and unsanitary conditions, our services help construction managers to avoid potential fines and delays.
- Welfare servicing: Our versatile welfare servicing packages cover everything from regular cleaning and restocking of supplies to the maintenance of portable facilities. We keep all welfare units, including toilets and washing stations, in excellent working condition throughout the project. This not only supports compliance with health and safety regulations but also contributes to a better working environment for site personnel.
If you are seeking professional support in managing your construction site's water and wastewater needs, Universal Tankers is here to assist. With a proven track record in delivering reliable, tailored solutions, our team will work closely with you to develop a plan that meets your specific project requirements.
Contact Us
We offer a next-day service that covers England, Scotland, and Wales, providing prompt and efficient support wherever your site is located. Call us on 0800 180 4474 (England and Wales) or 01236 444322 (Scotland) or fill in our contact form today to get started.
