Access to sanitation is a basic human right, protected under international and national regulation. In warehouse environments, workers may face barriers to accessing toilets, drinking water and hygiene facilities due to strict productivity targets or limited availability.
Productivity monitoring that tracks workers time away from tasks deters workers from taking bathroom breaks, increasing the risk of infections, dehydration and long-term health impacts. In large warehouses, sanitation facilities may be located far from workstations, requiring workers to travel long distances during limited break periods. Where facilities are not clean, safe and close to the work area, workers' rights are not fully realised.
Poor sanitation access creates health risks including dehydration, urinary tract infections and other medical problems. Inadequate hygiene facilities also increase the spread of communicable diseases.
Women workers may face additional challenges where sanitation facilities are insufficient, unsafe or lack privacy.
For more on access to sanitation facilities, see the Risks Across Transport guidance.