When planning an event of any size, it’s essential that you consider the toilet hire requirements. It’s a fundamental need, and your event will not be popular if your attendees have nowhere to relieve themselves. But, what do you need to actually consider?
Here’s your checklist for event toilet hire, to make sure you get the right facilities for your needs.
Step 1. What kind of toilets do you need?
There are several different types of portable toilet available when you hire from a specialist company. It’s not enough to just say you need “some toilet” – you need to know what kinds. Do you need basic urinals? A small selection of single portaloos? Or are you looking to invest in a larger portable toilet block?
Think of your guests’ needs here and plan accordingly, make sure you account for any disabled access/baby changing stations that may be required. If you’re operating a construction site, or there’s a possibility those attending might get dirty, you might even consider hiring a portable shower block or wash station.
Step 2. How many will you need?
Knowing how many toilets you’ll need will depend on how many people you anticipate will turn up to your event. If you’re running a small event for just family and friends, two portaloos and a few a urinals will likely cover the needs of your guests.
If you’re running a larger event where you don’t know exactly how many people will attend, it can be a bit more tricky. It’s always best to be a bit more generous with your estimation, as even if you don’t have that many guests actually arrive it’s preferable to have extra facilities available than not enough. Take the maximum number of people you anticipate to arrive, and use that to determine the facilities you need.
Step 3. Where will they be placed?
Facilities such as toilets, urinals, and wash stations always need to be placed where they can be easily found. If your event is taking place in a relatively confined location it likely won’t be an issue; however, if you’re running a bigger event you will need to place some thought into where you’re going to place your toilets.
If the event is big enough, you should be considering having toilets located in multiple locations, to account for guests needs all over the event. If possible, get yourself a map of the area your event will be held in – be it a field, common ground, etc, then use that to strategically plan your toilet locations.
Step 4. How will they be managed?
Most portable toilet hire companies will offer management services as a part of the hire package, whereby they will take care of emptying any septic tanks. Some don’t, however, so never make an assumption. Make a point of asking if your toilet hire company will take care of the waste, or if they only attend to delivery and installation. This is a vital consideration as if they only deliver, you’ll be left with the task of finding another company willing to manage the waste at short notice. Consider also any plumbing or power requirements that the stations might have, as extra generators might be necessary.
Step 5. Ask for help
It’s entirely likely your toilet hire company has had to deal with more instances of toilet hire than you have, so don’t be afraid to ask them for help if you aren’t sure about anything. They’ll be able to provide guidance as to how many units you’ll need, the best way to manage the waste, and where the optimum placement will be in the grounds of your event.
