Background information 

In an eye-opening study by Harris Interactive, 79% of surveyed women admitted to improvising makeshift tampons or pads using toilet paper or alternatives. This highlights the pressing need for menstrual care solutions to be as commonplace as soap, toilet paper, and paper towels in public restrooms.

Beyond the immediate health benefits, addressing menstrual care concerns offers advantages for patrons, employees, and maintenance staff alike. Establishing a restroom environment that caters to the needs of menstruators promotes a sense of consideration and well-being.

Implementing effective menstrual care practices involves key considerations : 

• Provide single-use disposal bags in each stall, accompanied by clear signage on their purpose and usage.
• Install receptacles inside each stall for convenient and discreet disposal.
• Ensure proper fitting liners for every menstrual receptacle.
• Display clear signage in each stall, reminding users to dispose of period products in the receptacle and avoid flushing them.
• Prioritise regular and timely maintenance, encompassing emptying, cleaning, and disinfection both inside and outside of the receptacle.
• Equip cleaning staff responsible for menstrual waste receptacle maintenance with adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and essential training on OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030).
• Alternatively, consider outsourcing maintenance and disposal tasks to a certified third-party provider for efficient and responsible waste management.

Benefits of implementing Best Practices in menstrual care : 

• Fosters an inclusive workplace, enhancing employee well-being and attracting top talent
• Creates a welcoming environment for customers, reducing plumbing issues, cleaning times, and overall facility costs.
• Individual disposal bags decrease flushing behaviour, minimising plumbing problems and enhancing restroom cleanliness.
• Enhances job satisfaction for custodial staff by reducing occupational exposure risks and cleaning times.
• Improves the overall user experience in public restrooms, promoting a positive facility encounter.
• Mandating free menstrual care products in government buildings, like schools, addresses period poverty, reduces absenteeism, and can save on plumbing and wastewater treatment costs.”

Conclusion : 

Beyond the health benefits, providing accessible and well-maintained menstrual care facilities, including reliable dispensers and proper disposal, contributes to a positive restroom experience for both patrons and staff. This not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of consideration, enhancing overall well-being and restroom standards.