We’re calling on HGV drivers who’ve been denied access to toilet facilities to bring complaints to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

You have a right to access toilets when you’re working, indeed denying someone access to facilities is against the law.

The Department for Transport (DfT) and HSE set this out clearly in an open letter to reassure drivers, and to remind businesses of their obligations under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, to provide suitable toilet and hand washing facilities to drivers visiting their premises.

Businesses which make or receive deliveries, should ensure that drivers have easy and safe access to toilets and hand washing facilities to support their health and wellbeing whilst carrying out their important work, which supports the economy, they added.

Denying you access – report firms for breaking the law

When you’ve been denied access to toilet or hand washing facilities you can report the firm to the HSE.

Reports from drivers are treated as a higher priority than if reported a third party such as a company boss, trade union or membership body.

We strongly urge you to report these instances so they can build cases against offending firms and take appropriate action.

Remember – it is your legal right to use a toilet and handwashing facilities. Firms are breaking the law if they refuse.

More information

HSE and DfT letter on access to hygiene facilities for drivers

Letter in support of hauliers’ legal rights to use safe, clean hygiene facilities while working