The Manitoba government is taking action to strengthen workplace health by requiring hot water for handwashing at larger construction sites beginning in April of 2027.
“Workers shouldn’t have to choose between doing their job and having access to basic hygiene,” said Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino. “Hot water for handwashing is a simple, common-sense standard that protects people’s health and treats workers with the dignity they deserve. We’re making sure Manitoba workers have safer, more respectful job sites.”
The change follows a five-year review of the Workplace Safety and Health Act conducted by a committee of labour, employer and technical representatives. The committee provided consensus recommendations after public consultation on improving workplace safety standards.
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.
Hot water must be available from the start of construction, ensuring workers have consistent access throughout the project. The requirement also applies to prime contractors, clarifying responsibility for washroom facilities on multi-employer work sites.
“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, Manitoba Building Trades. “The people building Manitoba’s infrastructure deserve job sites that meet health and safety standards. This is a meaningful step forward for the industry.”
The new requirements will come into effect April 1, 2027, giving employers time to prepare and transition.
