When planning an event or having construction done, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is where to put the porta potty. If you place it in the wrong spot, it can create a number of problems for your guests. They can be a complete eyesore if these toilets aren’t placed properly. Here are some tips for deciding where to put the portable toilet.
What does “porta potty” mean?
A porta potty is a portable toilet that can be used in various locations, such as outdoor events or construction sites. The most common way to get a porta potty is by renting it.
Factors to consider for porta potty placement
The placement of your porta potties will directly affect the number of people willing to use them. It can be a challenge since porta potties don’t come cheap, and you want to maximize their usage. Here are some tips regarding porta potty placement at special events.
Location:
When it comes to porta potties, location is key. You want to place them in an area that is easily accessible for customers but also hidden from view. If they are placed in a visible spot, customers will be less likely to use them. Try placing them near entrances and exits so people can quickly pop in and out without having to navigate through your entire property.
You also don’t want to place them too close to food or drink areas. Nobody wants to walk past a porta potty to get their funnel cake.
Number of Porta Potties:
You also need to consider the number of porta potties you will need for your event. If you have a large event, you will likely need more than one toilet. Try to space them out evenly so that they are convenient for everyone.
Size of Porta Potties:
Not all porta potties are created equal. You need to make sure that the ones you select are appropriate for your event size. If you have a small event, choose smaller toilets that won’t take up too much space.
Placement regulations:
Before you can finalize your porta potty placement, you need to check with your local regulations. Some cities have strict laws about where portable toilets can be placed. Others may require a permit for their placement. Be sure to do your research before making any final decisions.
Exterior Placement:
When it comes to exterior placement, you want to make sure that the porta potties are out of the way. Nobody wants to see a toilet when they are trying to enjoy their day at the beach or park. Try placing them in a spot that is hidden from view and won’t ruin your landscape.
Interior Placement:
You also need to consider interior placement. If you have limited space inside your rental, you will need to place them somewhere else. Porta potties can take up a lot of room, so try to find an area that is spacious enough for them but doesn’t interfere with customer traffic flow.
Cleaning:
Porta potties need to be cleaned regularly, especially if they are being used frequently. Be sure to have a cleaning schedule in place so that they are always fresh and ready for use. It’s also a good idea to have extra supplies on hand in case of emergencies.
Tips for Placing Your Porta Potty
Porta potties are a good option for events without access to indoor plumbing. Here are some tips to make sure they are placed in the best spot:
- Consider the weather conditions. In cold and windy climates, porta potties should be placed in areas that offer some protection from the elements. In hot and sunny weather, it’s a good idea to try to provide shade for guests.
- Make sure there is adequate space around the units for people waiting in line and for delivery trucks or cleaning services. Don’t allow parking or storage near porta potties; this makes them difficult to service and can cause them to become unsanitary.
- If you have a lot of people attending your event, it’s a good idea to have more than one porta potty available. This will help avoid long lines and wait times.
- Be sure to place signs near the units that give instructions on how to use them. This is especially important if your event is open to the public.
- Stay away from grills, flames and other fire hazards.
- Avoid areas with excessive mud or dirt.
- Do not place a portable toilet in an enclosed area such as a garage, basement or shed where it may be exposed to exhaust fumes, paint or other chemicals that may be harmful when inhaled through the ventilation system.
- Do not place portable toilets directly under low-hanging trees, power lines or other potential hazards that could cause damage or create a tripping hazard.
- Do not place a portable toilet on steep inclines or inclines greater than 15 degrees. The unit could tip over if not level or positioned correctly.
- Place the Porta Potty in a highly visible area, preferably near the entrance to the jobsite. The more visible the porta potty is, the more likely it will be used. When placing your portable sanitation equipment, also consider proximity to work areas. Make sure that all workers can reach a restroom without having to venture too far from their work zone.
- Place your portable restrooms at least 10 feet away from any type of food service area, such as a canteen or food truck. Keep in mind that the average distance most people are willing to walk to a restroom is 100 yards.
- When placing your porta potty, try to avoid areas with standing water or large puddles of water. Moisture inhibits the functioning of some components inside the unit, especially hand sanitizers and toilet paper dispensers. In addition, it can lead to unpleasant odors. If you must place a unit in an area with standing water, be sure to use a ground tarp to protect the bottom of the unit from moisture.
- It’s also important to keep porta potties away from high-traffic areas, such as walkways and parking areas. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also create a safety hazard. Porta potties should be placed in well-lit areas for safety purposes. Be sure to provide adequate lighting around the units so that guests can see at night.
- Portable toilets should be placed on level ground to avoid tipping or other accidents. The ground around the units should be free of debris, rocks and other objects that could create a tripping hazard.
- It’s also important to have a plan for waste disposal. Porta potties can fill up quickly, so it’s important to have a way to empty them on a regular basis. Be sure to have the appropriate size dumpster or septic tank available for waste disposal.
- When placing porta potties, be sure to consider the needs of all guests, including those with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all public facilities provide accessible restrooms for people with disabilities. Porta potties should be placed in an easily accessible location and equipped with grab bars, handrails and other features that make them safe and easy to use for everyone.
- By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your porta potties are placed in the most convenient and safe location for your guests. Placing them in the right spot will make them more likely to be used and less likely to become an eyesore or safety hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should the porta potty be emptied?
A: This will depend on how many guests you have using it. If you have a lot of people using the porta potty, you will need to empty it more frequently.
Q: How do I know if the porta potty is too full?
A: There are a few ways to tell if the porta potty is getting too full. One way is to check the weight of the unit. If it feels much heavier than when it was first set up, it is likely full. Another way to tell if the porta potty needs emptied is by checking the level of liquid inside. If it has reached or surpassed the fill line, then it is time to empty it.
Q: How far away should I place the porta potty from my home?
A: It really depends on how many guests you are expecting. If you have less than 100 people, position the portable toilet about 50 feet from your home. If you have more than 100 people, consider placing it about 75 to 100 feet from your home.
Q: How close should the portable toilet be to food and drinks?
A: It is best to keep the distance between a food table and a porta potty to at least 25 feet. This will avoid any unpleasant odors while people are dining.
Q: Can I place the portable toilet on a slope?
A: Yes, you can. However, make sure to keep it in an area that will not be affected by water runoff. Also, avoid placing it near trees or other tall objects, as they may block the sunlight and allow for harmful bacteria to grow.
Q: What if there is no flat surface to place the porta potty on?
A: In some cases, you may need to use leveling blocks under the portable toilet’s feet. This will help ensure that it remains stable and does not tip over.
Conclusion
Follow these tips to ensure that your guests have a pleasant experience using the portable toilet. These simple guidelines can help keep things running smoothly and avoid any potential problems. It will also help keep your home and property clean and free of any unwanted odors.