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Labour and Immigration
FAQs: Hot Water for Handwashing at Large Construction Sites
1. What is changing?
Manitoba has updated the Workplace Safety and Health Regulation to require hot water for handwashing at select large construction sites. Employers and prime contractors must ensure that hot water for handwashing is provided at specified construction sites, namely industrial, commercial, or institutional buildings that are greater than 600 square metres or greater than three storeys in height, where more than 25 workers are or are expected to be on site at any one time during the project.
2. When does the requirement apply?
The hot water requirement applies on the first day of work if more than 25 workers are expected to be on site at any one time during the project. Hot water must be available during construction, so hot water for hand washing must be installed during site preparation.
3. Am I able to wait until the first day that there are more than 25 workers on the site to have hot water available?
No. If more than 25 workers are expected to be on site at any point in the lifespan of the project, the hot water must be available on the first day that one or more workers is on site.
4. Why is this change being made?
A review of Manitoba's workplace safety and health legislation began in 2022 with extensive public consultation, followed by a review by the Workplace Safety and Health Act Review Committee, made up of labour, employer, and technical experts. The Review Committee's report was submitted to the Minister in January 2025, which included a unanimous recommendation to require hot water for handwashing at certain large construction project sites. More information about the recommendations can be found at:
5. When does the amendment take effect?
The regulation comes into effect on April 1, 2027.
6. What benefits will this amendment bring?
The amendment will result in enhanced working conditions for workers and increased tendering consistency for employers.
Contact the Workplace Safety & Health Branch
Phone: 204-957-SAFE (7233)
Toll-free: 1-855-957-SAFE (7233)
www.manitoba.ca/labour/safety/