What is Ontario’s new Regulation 480/24 and how does it impact sanitation inspections?
Regulation 480/24 — also known as Bill 190 or the ‘Working for Workers Five Act, 2024’ — introduced new requirements for washroom maintenance and the accessibility of cleaning records in workplaces in Ontario.
The legislation directs employers to maintain clean and sanitary washroom facilities for their employees.
It also requires that the washroom maintenance / cleans are documented. This requirement was implemented July 1, 2025.
As of January 1, 2026 employers must make the record of cleans available for viewing. Records can be posted physically in or near the washroom, or can be posted electronically if detailed instructions on how to access the records are provided.
The records must show information on the last two cleans — including date and time of the cleans.
Digital inspection tools can assist in ensuring that all washrooms are thoroughly inspected and that the record of cleans are kept and are easily accessible for viewing.
How can digital inspection tools help?
➡️ Cleaning personnel are provided with a detailed overview of the remaining washrooms, helping to ensure that none are overlooked.
➡️ Cleaning personnel receive tailored questions and on-the-spot information about the inspection, decreasing the risk of something being missed or forgotten.
➡️ Notes and photos can be added to inspection reports, and if any issues are found, the right people are automatically looped in, enabling speedy remediation.
➡️ Inspections are recorded. Records are date and time-stamped; they include who the inspection was performed by, and if any deficiencies were found. Reports are stored electronically in an organized and easy to retrieve format.
➡️ Managers can stay on top of their facility’s washroom inspections by using a dashboard and analytics to see an overview of inspection statuses including any washrooms that are due for inspection, are late, or that have deficiencies.
Sample tips of what to look for during sanitation inspections:
- Signage is in good condition, is visible and securely affixed on the door/wall
- Mirrors are in good condition and are safely secured
- Walls, floors and ceilings are in good condition
- There are no leaks, slipping or tripping hazards
- Lighting is adequate
- Locks and hinges on washroom stalls are in good condition and function properly
- Sinks are in good condition; they are not clogged and there are not any leaks
- Sink faucets have good water pressure and good water temperature
- Soap dispensers are in good working condition and have soap in them
- Toilets are flushable and are in good working condition; they are not clogged and there are not any leaks
- There are receptacles present and they do not need to be emptied (empty if required)
- There are hygiene receptacles in each of the washroom stalls
- Paper towel dispensers are in good working condition and are stocked
- Hand sanitizer stations are adequately filled
- Frequently touched surfaces have been wiped down with disinfectant
- General housekeeping of the area – the area is clean, tidy and free of hazards
With changing legislation, increased tenant expectations and a higher demand for transparency, it’s critical that sanitation checks are recorded, and are easily accessible in case any tenants or governing bodies inquire about your facility’s sanitation practices or history of checks.
For more information on digitizing sanitation checks, contact us at customerservice@tapreport.io.
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