The Considerate Constructor's Scheme (CCS) is a voluntary 'Code for Considerate Practice' for construction sites, companies and suppliers, designed to encourage best practice 'beyond statutory requirements' and raise standards in the construction industry. One of Code's three areas is 'Value their Workforce': under which, sites are required to provide suitable, separate facilities, including sanitary bins.

Providing access to sanitary products in toilets (whether free or paid for dispensers), supports all people menstruating by ensuring dignity and equity. For women, sanitary products are essential hygiene products, like soap or paper towels. As a minority group on construction sites, the stigma attached to visibly carrying a sanitary product is a barrier to inclusivity, not to mention the unpleasant experience of being 'caught off guard'. Encouraging provision of sanitary products in women's toilets on sites could make women feel more comfortable when working on construction sites, and perhaps help to improve the retention of women within the industry by removing that barrier.

As a 'best practice' standard, the CCS Code provides an opportunity to improve the experience of all those working on and visiting construction sites, and to lead the industry in improving diversity by showcasing exemplar workplaces. The CCS have agreed to review extending their code to include provision of sanitary products in their next update - please consider adding your signature and helping to improve the experience of women working in the construction industry.