Portable Restroom Glossary & Sanitation Terminology

A - C

ADA Compliant Restroom

A large portable unit designed to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act strict guidelines. It features a wide self-closing door, flat-floor entry (no ramp needed), 360-degree interior turning radius for wheelchairs, and reinforced grab bars.

Accessible Restroom

A larger, ground-level unit that improves access for walkers or parents with strollers, but may not meet full federal ADA trailer specifications.

Base Camp (Film & Production)

The main staging area for film crews where restrooms, trailers, catering, and support services are located. Requires high-capacity, reliable sanitation.

Blackwater

Wastewater containing fecal matter and urine. This waste must be transported by licensed vacuum trucks to a certified treatment facility.

Blue Water System

The standard recirculating flush system found in many portable toilets. It uses a specialized blue deodorizer and biocide liquid to flush the bowl, effectively masking odors and breaking down solids.

Containment Tray

A plastic basin placed under a portable toilet or holding tank to catch any potential drips or spills. Often required by environmental regulations on strict construction sites.

D - H

Event Fleet

A large quantity of portable restrooms delivered for a specific event (like a festival or marathon). These units are typically separate from construction inventory to ensure the highest quality appearance.

Fresh Water Flushing Unit

A premium portable toilet that flushes with fresh water from a hidden onboard tank, rather than recirculating chemicals. This hides the waste from view and reduces odor.

Fresh Water Tank

A dedicated tank that supplies clean water for flushing or handwashing when on-site water connections are not available.

Generator

A portable power source used when site or venue power is insufficient for luxury restroom trailers (which need power for AC, lights, and pumps).

Grey Water

Wastewater from sinks, showers, and handwash stations. While less hazardous than blackwater, it still requires proper disposal and cannot be dumped on the ground.

Handwash Station

A standalone unit featuring two or four sinks, foot-pump operation, soap dispensers, and paper towels. Essential for hygiene at events serving food.

High-Rise Unit (Crane Lift)

A specifically designed portable toilet with a heavy-duty steel sling or lifting points, allowing cranes to lift the unit to upper floors of high-rise construction projects.

Holding Tank

A low-profile waste tank (usually 250-300 gallons) designed to slide under construction trailers or RVs. It connects to the trailer's plumbing to store waste until a vacuum truck pumps it out.

I - P

Luxury Restroom Trailer

A mobile bathroom suite on wheels featuring flushing porcelain toilets, running water sinks, climate control (AC/Heat), lighting, and high-end finishes. Used for weddings and VIP events.

OSHA Sanitation Standards

Federal regulations (Standard 1926.51) that dictate the minimum number of toilets required for construction workers. Generally, one toilet is required for every 10-20 workers depending on the site type.

Pump-Out / Service

The routine maintenance visit where a vacuum truck empties the waste tank, refills the blue chemical/water mix, cleans the interior surfaces, and restocks toilet paper and sanitizer.

Q - Z

Restroom Attendant

A staff member hired to stay on-site during an event to clean restrooms, restock supplies, and manage lines, ensuring a VIP experience for guests.

Sanitizer Stand

A freestanding station dispensing alcohol-based hand sanitizer foam or gel. A waterless alternative to handwash stations, ideal for high-traffic areas.

Service Frequency

How often portable restrooms or holding tanks are pumped out and cleaned during a rental. Typically weekly for construction, but can be daily for high-traffic events.

Standard Portable Restroom

The most common rental unit. Features a static waste tank, urinal, toilet paper dispenser, and ventilation. Often called a "porta potty" or "porta john."

Standard With Flush

A portable restroom with a foot-pump flush system, hiding waste from view for an upgraded user experience compared to the basic static tank.

Unit Move

Relocating restrooms or trailers during multi-location events or film shoots (e.g., moving base camp from one site to another).

Vacuum Truck

A specialized service vehicle equipped with a large waste tank, a fresh water tank, and a powerful vacuum pump used to service portable restrooms.

VIP Portable Restroom

An upgraded portable restroom often featuring a foot-flush system, handwash basin, mirror, and enhanced interior finishes for better comfort.