If you are returning to the office after working remotely, you may notice some changes in your workplace, and one of them could be in your restroom.

Here, you may encounter a waterless urinal — possibly for the first time — making introductions necessary. Coming face-to-face with a waterless urinal for the first time is frequently met with curiosity as well as a bit of apprehension as no flush valve is present.

To make this introduction and transition to waterless urinals go smoothly and successfully, facility managers need to do their research. Once the decision has been made to install waterless urinals, the easiest and best way to introduce them is via a facility email introducing the urinals and answering some basic questions that might come up.  Among them might be the following:

Why did you install waterless urinals? Start with the health benefits. Waterless urinals are more hygienic than traditional ones because you don’t have to touch anything, and there is no flushing that can spread germs or bacteria into the air.

How do waterless urinals work? The urine flows down the urinal to a special trap or cartridge that prevents odors from escaping. Then, it travels to the sewer system, just like with conventional urinals.

What’s the advantage? While the numbers vary, one waterless urinal can save about 30,000 gallons of water per year. If 10 waterless urinals are installed, that’s 300,000 gallons saved. A waterless urinal uses no water at all, which saves money on water bills and sewer fees and reduces the environmental impact of water use and wastewater treatment.

What about odors? With waterless urinals, should odors occur, it simply means the sealing liquid is depleted and needs to be replenished. Additionally, odor problems may be the result of inadequate cleaning. We will clean all surfaces of the waterless urinals with a sanitizer, which kills most pathogens on a surface. A disinfectant is usually not necessary.

How do I use it? Unbelievably, this is still a common question. The answer is to use it as you would a traditional urinal and then walk away. To get this message across, post signage near the waterless urinals.

What if I don’t like it? It can take time for some men to become accustomed to waterless urinals. But within a week or so, those concerns typically evaporate (excuse the pun). Remember, we are in the introduction stage — men are being presented with a new and different type of restroom fixture. Ask for feedback — it can make the transition go smoother.

There is one more question, and it typically comes from facility managers:

How do we celebrate success? Wait a few weeks. After introductions have been made and there are no more questions about the waterless urinals, a celebration is called for. But here’s how to do it.

Once the waterless urinals have been accepted, communicate how much water is being saved. Finding this information is easy as it’s included in water utility bills. Wait about three months and then compare current and previous water usage; you can expect some jaws to drop when they see the savings. Now you can celebrate.

Here’s the big takeaway: Waterless urinals are a great way to save water and money, but they may require adjustments and cause concerns among your male employees. The tips presented here should help you introduce waterless urinals and address any concerns or questions they may have.

Your goal as a facility manager is to create a positive and supportive work environment for all your tenants, and in the process, you are helping to promote sustainability.  

Waterless Co., Inc. is a pioneer in water efficiency. We are:

• The go-to company for reducing water consumption.

• Understand the many benefits of waterless urinals.

• Help you find ways to use water more efficiently.

For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist