Large Outdoor Events ? Port-a-potty 'MUSTS'!
Planning a large event can be mentally taxing ? unless, from the get-go, all the logistics have been meticulously considered, planned and implemented. One main 'ingredient' embedded in large outdoor events ? whether concerts, festivals, car shows, etc ? is port-a-potties! Even the most basic port-a-potty designs do an excellent job of keeping venues hygienically clean. Disease-causing pathogens are kept at bay thanks to these portable commodes that offer immediate convenience and relief!
There are some basic 'musts', however, which will help to ensure large-event details unfold, seamlessly. Take, for example, the following:
1. The Numbers
Getting an accurate count of how many port-a-potties will be needed, is crucial. The last thing any event planner would want is individuals using open spaces to relieve themselves or long wait lines with unhappy visitors! Call Chem Can to assist with determining how many port-a-potty units you would need for your large event. We will use the dimensions of the units you select and compare those figures with the total size of the area(s) they will cover, at the event site. A few inches, between units, would be counted, as well.
2. The Placement
Clustering port-a-potty units together in one grouping might work well for a smaller event such as a farmers' market, but for larger events, more strategic thought must go into port-a-potty placement. For large events, port-a-potties should be placed near food and drink kiosks, rest areas, concert stages, and other site locations where larger congregations mingle. Splitting up port-a-potties and positioning them in favored locations will ensure long wait lines are prevented as well guests benefiting from shorter walks to reach a portable restroom. If permanent bathroom facilities will be present, port-a-potties should be placed, elsewhere, where they are needed, the most. It's all about happy visitors who will want to return next year, and that equates to increased revenue!
Regardless of where port-a-potties will be positioned, the ground must be solid, level, and dry to avoid possible tip-overs and/or sinking, due to heavy rains. The ideal foundations for port-a-potty placement would be concrete, asphalt, or other equally-reliant surfaces. Also, if possible, position port-a-potties in areas that provide overhead in case it drizzles or rains. Again, it's about catering to your attendees whose money is the lifeblood of your event's success, now, and into the future.
It is critical that sanitation vehicles can park within 20 feet of the port-a-potty units. Additionally, a clear path must be available for retrieval crews who will be on schedule on pick-up day. If retrieval crews cannot remove port-a-potty units due to obstructions such as parked vehicles, for example, delays could be reflected on the final bill.
3. The Security
Unfortunately, vandalism is a very real issue with port-a-potties after a multi-day event closes for the evening. Whether vandalism involves intentional tip-overs or graffiti, these senseless activities can be minimized or eliminated when basic security measures are in place:
*** provide temporary fencing, such as chain-link, or barricades
*** lock all port-a-potties' doors, at night
*** hire a security officer for overnight monitoring
*** use tethering devices to prevent tip-overs (tethering must follow OSHA-approved guidelines)
*** place port-a-potties along a wall or other solid structure
*** place port-a-potties in areas that are well-lit at night, if possible
*** display a professionally-designed sign, next to one or more units, which states: These units are monitored by security cameras (even if they aren't!)
4. The Cleaning
If your larger event will last more than a single day, a big 'must' would include a thorough cleaning of every port-a-potty at the end of each day. Additionally, you would want to request a re-stocking of necessities such as toilet paper and hand-soap or hand-sanitizer, for each event day. As mentioned, maintenance vehicles must get within 20 feet of the units. This is vital to ensure hoses from trucks can be hooked up to pump waste from the units.
When port-a-potties are sparkling clean and fresh-smelling for the next day's activities, visitors remember those 'little things' and are more likely to become repeat patrons.
5. The Rules and Regulations
Local, state, and federal laws come into play when public port-a-potties are used for public events. Here are a few guidelines to keep at the forefront:
*** Port-a-potties must not block fire hydrants or other emergency structures
*** Port-a-potties must allow ample room for fire/police/ambulatory vehicles to enter, at any time
*** Port-a-potty numbers must comply with ADA guidelines ? 5% of units must be ADA approved
*** Port-a-potty usage may require multiple permits ? check with city and county offices for details
Give Chem Can a Call!
If you have any questions regarding the rental of any of our port-a-potties or higher-end portable restrooms for your large event, give us a call!
Our Fort Worth Office: 817-568-2333 ~ Our Dallas Office: 214-935-9017
We look forward to helping your event rock!