Work on construction sites generally takes place in areas where there are no permanent facilities or only minimal ones, such as showers, toilets, site canteens and rest areas.

Therefore, it's vital that you have the appropriate temporary facilities in place before work begins on the site. Shipping containers are ideal for use in these situations, and organising a container hire agreement is a cost-effective way of securing these facilities.

What Facilities Do You Need to Provide?

Regulations require employers to provide welfare amenities that are suitable and sufficient for the use of all their employees while they're at work.

The type and number of the facilities that are required will vary according to the number of employees, the type of work they'll be performing and the length of time the work will take place for.

However, generally the facilities that are necessary will include:

• A sufficient quantity of toilets and washing facilities, including those suitable for disabled workers
• Separate facilities for male and female employees where possible
• Well-lit, ventilated and clean facilities
• Cold and hot running water
• Supplies of soap, a method to dry hands and toilet paper
• Space to eat and drink and a hot-drink source
• A means to heat food if it cannot be bought close by
• Tap or bottled water suitable for drinking
• If employees require specialist clothing, there should be a changing area
• Any pregnant or nursing mothers need to be provided with rest facilities

How to Provide These Facilities

One of the quickest and most convenient means of providing many of these services to your employees is to use shipping containers. They can easily be transported to and positioned on sites, offering secure and covered facilities which can then be removed when they are no longer required.

A container hire company can provide you with units in a range of different sizes which are suitable for different requirements. They can be fitted out to your specific requirements, providing you with the ability to offer canteens, shower units or toilet facilities to your employees.

They can be connected to external utility supplies, including electricity and water, or used as a standalone facility that is powered by a generator.

There are many uses for shipping containers on construction sites. They are ideal for temporary accommodation and site facilities, reducing the difficulties involved in setting up a new site and enabling work to commence sooner.