Portable toilets for truck drivers coming to multiple highway rest stops in BC

The BC government said it is increasing support for commercial truckers to help improve their travel amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The province will be funding the installation of portable toilets at several commercial vehicle pull-outs, inspection stations, and chain-up locations throughout BC.

In a release, the province said that “commercial truck drivers play an important role in maintaining the supply chain by delivering essential goods during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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“The drivers ensure people around the province continue to have access to the items they need, including food and medicine. This is why it is crucial that commercial truck drivers have safe and clean facilities.”

So far, the province has installed approximately 20 portable toilets at commercial pull-outs and inspection stations, and is looking to install additional ones in the near future.

According to the release, the installation of additional portable toilets began this past weekend and is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

In addition, all rest areas will remain open during the outbreak to continue to support the trucking industry.

“Maintenance contractors are working to keep these facilities clean, sanitary, and well supplied. If people encounter less than ideal conditions at any provincial rest area, they are encouraged to contact the appropriate maintenance contractor or nearest ministry office,” said the release.

The province noted that Vancouver radio station Red FM has also contacted the ministry to fund the installation of additional portable toilets in Surrey and Delta to support the commercial vehicle industry. The ministry is working with Red FM to identify locations and co-ordinate installation this week.

With these new installations, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is reminding drivers in BC, that while highways and roads remain open, the provincial health officer recommends people stay close to home and avoid any non-essential travel.