��������

WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government has made the move to require hot water for handwashing at larger construction sites by April 1, 2027.

Under the amendments, large construction sites must provide hot water for handwashing, including industrial, commercial and institutional projects that exceed 600 square metres, are more than three storeys high or have more than 25 workers, states a release.

Hot water must be available from the start of construction. The requirement also applies to prime contractors, clarifying responsibility for washroom facilities on multi-employer worksites.

“Workers shouldn’t have to choose between doing their job and having access to basic hygiene,” said Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino in a statement.

“Hot water for handwashing is a simple, common-sense standard that protects people’s health and treats workers with the dignity they deserve.”

The change follows a five-year review of the Workplace Safety and Health Act conducted by a committee of labour, employer and technical representatives, explains the release. The committee provided consensus recommendations after public consultation on improving workplace safety standards.

“This sets out a clear standard for how construction workers are treated and sends a strong message that cutting corners on basic conditions isn’t acceptable,” said Dave McPhail, president of the Manitoba Building Trades. “The people building Manitoba’s infrastructure deserve jobsites that meet health and safety standards. This is a meaningful step forward for the industry.”