57% of workers feel uncomfortable using workplace toilets – Victorian Plumbing

Most UK workers are uncomfortable using the toilet at work, with 57% of Brits saying they did not feel at ease using workplace toilets, a study from Victorian Plumbing found.

Two in five said they only use the work bathroom when absolutely desperate, and 13% admitted they avoid it altogether. 

Nearly 60% said they hold it in at work rather than use the toilet. 

41% experienced physical discomfort or pain from holding it in, 39% said it caused stress or anxiety, and 30% reported it affected their focus and productivity.

Women were more likely to be uncomfortable using the work toilet, with 26% saying they never use it for bowel movements, compared to 9% of men. 

Many women feared being judged (57%), running into colleagues (55%) or being overheard (54%). 

While 44% of women were more likely to use the toilet at work during their period, 18% said they used it if they had a medical condition such as endometriosis.

Victorian Plumbing has now introduced a ‘superior stalls policy’ based on the feedback.