Why do porta potties smell worse in summer?
Porta potties smell worse in summer because heat speeds up bacteria in the holding tank and warms the plastic walls. A unit in full afternoon sun in Edinburg can be 20 degrees hotter inside than the shade nearby. The deodorizer still works, but it is working harder by day five.
Where should a unit sit in the heat?
Place the unit where it gets afternoon shade — the east side of a building, a tree line or a parked trailer. Face the door north or east so the door is not cooking in the sun. Keep the roof vent clear so hot air can escape.
Should I add service in summer?
Add a second weekly service when more than 8 workers share 1 unit in summer, or rent one more unit. A second service costs about $75 a visit. Many builders find an extra unit cheaper than extra visits on 2-month jobs.
See construction porta potty rental for crew sizing.
What else helps crews in the heat?
Hand wash stations, a cooler of water near the units, and shade over the break area keep crews comfortable. OSHA heat guidance does not set a rule for toilets, but workers who avoid a hot, smelly unit drink less water, and that is a safety risk.