PortaPros Blog

March 1, 2023

An Overview of GAP & USDA Portable Toilet Standards for Agriculture Sites

When selecting a company to provide portable toilets for an agriculture site, GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) and USDA standards should be considered. Portable toilets used in the agricultural industry are subject to special regulations to ensure that they meet acceptable levels of sanitation and hygiene.

GAP Compliance

GAP compliance requires all portable toilet units used on an agricultural site to be clean, sanitized, and odor-free regularly throughout the duration of their use. Portable toilets must also be emptied safely and appropriately when full or no longer needed. Portable toilet companies servicing agriculture sites should have certified staff who can properly handle waste disposal according to GAP guidelines. Portable toilets should also contain hand sanitizer at all times and include features such as foot pedals for flushing and lids on the tanks.

USDA Standards

The USDA also has standards that must be met when it comes to portable toilets used for agriculture sites. Portable toilets should have a separation between the toilet opening and the surrounding surface, as well as a non-absorbent surface around the toilet. Portable toilets need to be kept clean at all times, which includes regular cleaning of both interior and exterior of the units. Portable Toilet companies servicing agricultural sites should follow these regulations in order to ensure that they are providing safe, sanitary facilities for their customers.

Handwash Stations

When it comes to hand washing after using portable toilets in agricultural settings, certain guidelines are necessary to ensure Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) compliance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) GAP standards require workers to have access to an adequate supply of soap and water for hand sanitation after using the restroom. Handwashing facilities should be conveniently located near portable toilets, provided with clean water, and stocked with soap and paper towels (or other approved hand drying methods). Hand sanitizer should also be made available.

Additionally, actions must be taken to ensure that there is a receptacle for used paper towels or other disposable items used for hand sanitation. Handwashing facilities must remain clean and in good working order to be compliant with USDA GAP standards.

By ensuring that all of these requirements are met, agricultural workers can benefit from improved hygiene when using portable toilets on farms or in other agricultural settings. Handwashing is an essential part of maintaining health and safety in the agricultural workplace, and GAP compliance is a necessary part of ensuring that all workers have access to adequate sanitation facilities.

Conclusion

When selecting a company to provide serviceable portable toilets and handwash stations for an agricultural site, it is important to ensure that they are GAP and USDA-compliant. It is also important to check for certification and proper training for the staff who will be servicing the units, as well as ensuring that they have adequate supplies of hand sanitizer, and other necessary features. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your portable toilets meet all necessary standards and provide a safe and sanitary environment for everyone on your agricultural site.

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Why PortaPros

For a combined 50 years, PortaPros has been serving the agriculture needs of Idaho and Eastern Oregon. We have a deep fleet of GAP-compliant portable and trailer-mounted restrooms, handwash stations, and experienced staff to ensure you pass your Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) audits without any questions.

To learn more contact David Teague - Agriculture Relationship Manager for PortaPros:

Phone: 541-900-3779
Email: david@portapros.com