Trailer Mounted Restroom Modules are essential equipment for projects that require more people than the existing utilities can handle. When purchasing a restroom module, it is crucial to consider how and where it will be utilized. When adding restroom modules to a project, too often, the only aspects that are focused on are the number of toilets and the pricing. As a result, the module's other features and specifications and how they align with the module's intended use can be easily forgotten. These features and specifications can be the difference between an easy, comfortable experience and a costly, difficult one.

Armoda manufactures trailer-mounted restroom modules (and other types of accommodation modules) for a wide range of industries. From our experiences, we have compiled a list of six things to consider when looking to purchase your next restroom module.

1. Restroom Module Layout

Restroom modules are typically found in a few standard layouts. The most common is a men's or women's restroom module that is just a restroom with a set number of toilets and sinks. Other layouts include restroom shower combination modules, shower-only modules, and unisex restroom modules. For events and concerts, where only restrooms are needed, the men's, women's, or unisex modules are the requirement. Whereas, on a disaster recovery project or worksite, a restroom shower combo module or shower-only module would be the best solution.

2. Restroom Module Size

The first thing to consider when purchasing a restroom module is the size of the module. The size is determined by two main factors: the number of toilets needed, and the space available for the module at the location.

A. Determining the Number of People for a Restroom Module

Knowing the number of people who will be utilizing the module is key in determining how many toilets are needed. This number, along with the type of project or event that it will be supporting, will provide enough information to determine the number required. For example, a module working on a long-term construction project will fall under Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, requirements. However, an event where people will consume alcoholic drinks will require more toilets per person.

B. Space Available for Restroom Modules

Knowing the space available at the location aids in determining the size of the module. If the site has a large, wide-open area to place the module, it can be built to whatever size is needed. When there is limited space, then multiple smaller modules that can be placed in available space are the solution.

This relationship between the number of people and the size of the space available for the restroom module allows for choosing the correct size and number of modules that will best suit the project.

3. Transportability of Restroom Modules

The second thing to consider is how transportable the module will need to be. Modules that will be used for multiple projects in changing locations will require the ability to be easily transported. In contrast, modules that are being used to expand a location's restroom capacity that will never be moved do not require any type of transportability. Knowing how the module will be used before purchasing will ensure that you get the correct module for your project.

4. Fixtures for Restroom Modules

The fourth thing to consider is what types of fixtures the module should have. The fixtures needed for a restroom module supporting a disaster recovery project are different from those used for additional restrooms at a concert or event. For disaster recovery work, the restroom module could require stainless steel fixtures to handle the harsher chemicals that could be necessary for cleanup. On the other hand, a restroom module for concerts and events will utilize more standard fixtures. Standard restroom fixtures can be used with upgraded fixtures, depending on the formality of the events it will be supporting.

5. Is a Restroom Module Self-Contained?

The fifth thing to consider is whether the restroom module will have access to water and sewer utilities at the location or not. Restroom modules can be constructed to be self-contained or with tie-ins to be hooked up to existing utilities. Self-contained modules are ideal for remote locations such as oil rig sites with no utility locations to tie into. On the other hand, modules designed to tie into utilities are better suited for places where the module will become a permanent fixture. 

6. Does a Restroom Module Need Climate Control?

The last thing to consider is whether the module will need to be climate controlled or not. Adding climate controls to a module is not always necessary. Depending on where the module is being deployed, the additional cost of adding HVAC equipment to the module may not be necessary. For locations with mild temperatures, such as an outdoor concert in North Carolina in the spring, the addition of climate control is not needed. On the other hand, climate control would be necessary for locations in more extreme temperatures, such as an oil rig site in west Texas during the summer.

When beginning your search for a trailer-mounted restroom module for your next project, consider these five aspects. It will help ensure you get the right module for your project. Armoda has manufactured restroom modules for projects for a wide variety of industries. And, we've helped add a level of comfort to offshore drilling rigs for the professionals in their homes away from home.

Contact us today if you have any questions about restroom modules or need one for an upcoming project you're planning.