Event organisers are tasked with creating environments that are not only enjoyable and functional but also safe and hygienic. Whether planning a community market, outdoor music festival, or a corporate gathering, the health and comfort of attendees should be an essential consideration. One important yet sometimes overlooked component of event infrastructure is the inclusion of portable handwashing stations.
At Summerland Environmental, we provide hygiene and waste management solutions across Northern New South Wales. Based on our experience, providing portable handwashing stations in addition to portable toilets significantly enhances the hygiene standard of an event. Following, we explore how these facilities contribute to better event planning, public health, and attendee satisfaction.
Portable handwashing stations offer a simple yet effective way to maintain cleanliness throughout your event. While most organisers provide portable toilets, these do not fully address the hygiene needs of attendees. Washing hands with soap and running water is a far more effective method of preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses than relying on hand sanitiser alone.
Placing portable handwashing stations at strategic locations encourages good hygiene behaviour. Whether guests are partaking in food, using shared equipment, or simply spending time in communal spaces, having access to handwashing facilities improves the overall event experience and reduces the likelihood of contamination or illness.
For family-friendly events, where children are often present, these stations are especially useful. Parents are more likely to feel comfortable attending an event where hygiene facilities are clearly provided and maintained.
Hygiene should be built into every stage of event planning. From mapping out vendor locations to allocating space for amenities, organisers must consider where portable handwashing stations will provide the most benefit.
It’s best practice to place stations next to toilet blocks, food stalls, entrances, and high-touch areas. Ensuring these units are clearly visible and well-signed helps promote their use and encourages regular handwashing throughout the day. Placement also affects flow. If handwashing stations are convenient to access, they are more likely to be used.
Summerland Environmental assists our clients by offering advice on how many stations are required for a given event size and layout. Our team considers factors like expected attendance, event duration, and weather conditions to recommend the most efficient configuration.
Festival hygiene is a concern for both organisers and attendees. With large crowds, limited permanent infrastructure, and long hours, festivals present a unique challenge in maintaining cleanliness.
Portable handwashing stations play a critical role in supporting festival hygiene. When positioned near food vendors and dining areas, they help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. When placed near shared facilities or high-traffic areas, they help prevent the spread of germs.
Importantly, hygiene expectations from the public have shifted. Many attendees now actively look for visible hygiene infrastructure before deciding to attend an event. Meeting these expectations not only protects guests but also contributes to a festival’s reputation. In the long term, positive feedback regarding cleanliness can result in stronger community support and higher attendance numbers.
Investing in hygiene infrastructure is a clear sign of commitment to public health. In the context of large gatherings, where people are often in close proximity, organisers must take proactive steps to prevent the spread of illness.
Portable handwashing stations are one of the most effective ways to support public health at events. They promote regular handwashing, reduce the transmission of germs, and help keep shared spaces cleaner and more comfortable. This not only protects attendees but also benefits vendors, staff, and volunteers who are working long hours and handling food or equipment.
At Summerland Environmental, we ensure any hygiene facilities that we provide are regularly serviced and well-stocked with water, soap and paper towels. By partnering with a professional provider, organisers can be confident that they are meeting health guidelines and doing their part to support the wellbeing of the wider community.
The success of any event hinges on more than just entertainment and logistics. Cleanliness, hygiene and attendee comfort all play a critical role in how an event is perceived. Portable handwashing stations are a practical and visible way to support these factors.
From improving festival hygiene to contributing to public health efforts, portable handwashing stations add value across all types of events. They enhance safety, promote trust and help create a welcoming environment for every guest. Including them as part of your event planning strategy ensures a higher standard of hygiene and demonstrates a thoughtful approach to attendee wellbeing.
If you’re planning an event in Northern New South Wales, Summerland Environmental can provide high-quality portable handwashing stations and other essential hygiene services tailored to your needs. Our experienced team works closely with event organisers to ensure optimal placement and reliable service throughout your event.
Let us help you raise the hygiene standards at your next market, festival, or function. Contact us to discuss how we can support your event planning from start to finish.
Liquid Waste Management services in Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, and Richmond Valley council areas.