NEWS RELEASE: Winnipeg Construction Association Applauds Hot Water Requirement at Large Construction Sites

WINNIPEG , April 13, 2025 – The Winnipeg Construction Association (WCA) welcomed the news that the province is requiring hot water be available for handwashing on large construction sites. The change follows a five-year review of the Workplace Safety and Health Act, which WCA participated in.

“We’ve been advocating for the hot water handwashing requirement since at least 2022,” said Darryl Harrison, WCA Director, Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy. “This is just one step we can take to raise the bar for Manitoba’s construction industry. Improving working conditions like these helps our members attract and retain a skilled, diverse workforce.”

The amendments to the act state that 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. The new requirements will come into effect on April 1, 2027.

“Giving contractors a year to prepare for the transition is reasonable. We look forward to seeing the hot water requirements come into effect in the new year. It’s a meaningful change that workers on these projects will surely appreciate,” said Harrison.

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Media Contact: Darryl Harrison, Director, Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

darryl@winnipegconstruction.ca, 204-775-8664 ext: 2249

The Winnipeg Construction Association is an incorporated, not-for-profit trade association representing commercial contractors and suppliers throughout Manitoba. We currently have over 750 member firms, including manufacturers, suppliers, financial institutions, lawyers, insurance and bonding companies and brokers