Are you designing or renovating public washrooms along highways?
Designing public washrooms for highways means dealing with challenging conditions. Washrooms can be accessed by an elevated number of people, undergo variations in attendance and ensure reliable functioning for several hours, often throughout the same day. These facilities may be used by a large number of people, experience significant fluctuations in user numbers, and need to operate reliably for long periods, often continuously throughout the day.
The variety of users contributes to making the project even more complex. Motorists, families, HGV drivers, elderly people, people with disabilities, international tourists, and organized groups experience the station in different ways and at different times, highlighting needs that are difficult to address in a standard solution.
Highway service areas themselves also have different characteristics: some are mainly designed for short stops, while others are more complex facilities combining refuelling, rest and refreshment areas with a wide range of services for travellers.
SANO2 SOLUTIONS approaches these projects starting by analyzing the available space, expected user numbers, the characteristics of the service area, the different types of users and operational requirements. Based on this analysis, each public washroom solution is designed to meet the specific requirements of the project, whether it is a single facility, a structure with several separate spaces or a more complex project, integrating self-cleaning technologies and complementary functions as required.
In this guide we examine the key aspects to be considered when planning public washrooms along highways, with particular attention to contexts characterised by high levels of use.
A GUIDE TO THE PLANNING OF PUBLIC WASHROOMS ALONG HIGHWAYS
What are the main challenges when planning public washrooms along highways?
Public washrooms along highways must maintain high levels of performance even under particularly challenging conditions, as facilities, structures and components are subjected to frequent and prolonged use.
Therefore, each project must balance capacity, durability, hygiene and reliability, while also taking into account even all the factors that will affect its management: required maintenance frequency, ease of maintenance and repair, facility monitoring and rapid restoration of service in the event of a malfunction.
Materials and components must be selected to withstand high levels of use, while the organization of the space must ensure easy and intuitive use, even for people who are unfamiliar with the area or do not speak the local language.
Compared with other settings, the design perspective changes: public washrooms must be considered infrastructure that is constantly subjected to heavy use. Their quality depends not only on the initial condition, but also on their ability to maintain the same standards over time.
How do stops and necessary services change according to the kind of travellers?
A highway service area is used differently by different types of travellers. The duration and frequency of stops as well as individual needs, influence how people use the available services. These factors should therefore be considered from the earliest stages of the design process.
For many car drivers, a service area represents a short stop, usually to use the restrooms, refuel or visit the refreshment area before continuing their journey. Families may require different amounts of time and spaces, while the arrival of tour buses or organized groups can concentrate several accesses in a short time.
Moreover, the growth of electric mobility is changing times and modalities of the stops. Charging an electric vehicle requires a longer stop than traditional refuelling, making the services available at the service area increasingly important. Therefore, alongside charging stations, , the design may include spaces and facilities capable of making the stop more comfortable and useful, from refreshment areas and public restrooms, to spaces dedicated to rest and relaxation, as well as other needs.
HGV drivers are in a different situation: for them, service areas may also represent a place to stay during rest breaks and off-duty periods. Alongside washrooms, showers, changing rooms and areas dedicated to personal hygiene play an essential role, helping to improve the quality of their stay during long shifts and journeys.
The project must also ensure easy access for people with different characteristics and needs. SANO2 SOLUTONS projects can include multiple public washrooms, urinals, showers and changing rooms, in addition to accessible facilities for people with disabilities. In the S4 and S5 models, for instance, the washbasin is barrier-free to allow wheelchairs’ users to approach it from the front, while grab bars and touch-free automatic devices make the facilities easier to use.
The possibility of customizing the spaces make it possible to develop anything from a single restroom facility to more articulated structures, designed according to the type of users and the role the station plays along the journey.
What should be considered when sizing public washrooms according to user flows?
The sizing of public washrooms along highways should be based on an analysis of the expected number of users, and, above all, of how their use is distributed over time.
A service area characterized by relatively consistent levels of use presents different conditions from a facility where user numbers are concentrated at specific times of the day. Public holidays, intensive travel periods, weekends, seasonal variations or the simultaneous arrival of groups can generate peaks that are significantly higher than average levels.
The number of facilities, the provision of urinals, the organization of entrances and layout of spaces should therefore be assessed by considering the capacity required during periods of peak use, in addition to the overall number of users.
The speed at which each facility can become available again between one user and the next is also particularly important. In high-use contexts, automation and the duration of cleaning cycles directly affect the effective capacity of the entire system.
How much do the size and characteristics of a highway service area influence the project?
The size, location and function of a highway service area can determine the level of complexity required for its sanitary facilities.
A facility mainly intended for short stops may require compact, easily accessible and easy-to- maintain solutions. As user numbers, average length of stay and the range of available services increase, it may be necessary to install additional units and coordinate the different spaces in order to accommodate a wider range of activities more efficiently.
The same principle applies to service areas with lower or highly seasonal levels of use. An example of a solution tailored to a context with different requirements is the SANO2 project carried out at the Santa Caterina parking area along the A23 highway. In this case SANO2 installed precast modules equipped S2 technology, a non self-cleaning system, accessible facilities, touch-free devices and automatic “free/occupied” status indicators, as well as a dedicated space for a vending machine. This project shows how, when user numbers and patterns of use do not require a self-cleaning system, public washrooms can be designed with a level of automation that is consistent with the actual needs of the service area. Discover more about SANO2 project on highway A23.
Modularity makes it possible to develop facilities according to actual requirements, avoiding the application of the same solution to very different contexts while allowing for more complex configurations when the scale of the service area requires them.
In more complex settings, the project can therefore go beyond the concept of a single block of public washrooms and include a fully-fledged service infrastructure for the rest area.
To learn more about the relationship between the quality of a stop, comfort and services for travellers, read our guide to public washrooms in rest areas.
When can a highway service area become a multifunctional hub?
As the size of the facility, the range of activities and the length of users’ stays increase, it can be useful to bring together several functions within an integrated system of services.
SANO2 Solutions projects can be developed as modular structures in which washrooms are combined with showers, changing rooms, kiosks, vending areas and other functional spaces, making it possible to adapt the project to the characteristics of the service area and the range of services to be provided.
The modular approach can be used to coordinate different activities within the same project, optimizing space and building services while developing facilities that are consistent with the required level of service.
In more complex service areas, therefore, the public washroom can become part of a multi-functional hub dedicated to rest and stopping, capable of meeting both the needs of people stopping for a few minutes and those of users spending longer periods in the area.
How can hygiene and continuity of service be guaranteed under intensive use?
In public washrooms characterised by frequent use, maintaining high hygiene standards cannot depend solely on manual interventions. Automation makes it possible to carry out cleaning operations between one user and the next, helping to keep the facilities clean and available even during periods of peak use.
The SANO2 Solutions range includes technologies developed for different levels of use.
The S4 Series is designed for contexts where public washrooms are used frequently. After each use, the system automatically starts a cleaning and disinfection cycle lasting less than 35 seconds. It can be installed both in existing buildings and in outdoor precast structures, in single-unit or multiple-unit configurations.
The S5 Series, on the other hand, is designed for contexts characterized by higher levels of use and integrates specific technologies developed to meet particularly challenging conditions. The system automatically starts a disinfection and drying cycle for the seat and floor, uses industrial components tested for millions of cycles and precisely monitors the presence of users. A complete cleaning and disinfection cycle is carried out in less than 60 seconds after each use.
In both series, the choice of materials and equipments contributes to long-term durability: porcelain stoneware cladding, steel components, touch-free devices and vandal-resistant features are designed to withstand frequent and intensive public use.
The most suitable technology should be selected by taking into account user number, the intensity of peak demand, the characteristics of the service area and management requirements, in order to provide the level of automation best suited to the specific needs of the facility.
Which solutions simplify the management and maintenance of public washrooms along highways?
Public washrooms subject to intensive use must be designed not only to function reliably, but also to be efficiently monitored and maintained over time.
Durable materials, easily accessible components and systems designed to simplify technical interventions help reduce the time and complexity involved in both routine and corrective maintenance. The choice of vandal-resistant equipments is also particularly important for public washrooms that are not under constant supervision.
In more advanced systems, remote monitoring makes it possible to check the status of the washrooms without the need for on-site inspection. The Series S5 is equipped with a cloud-based telemetry system, allowing the facilities to be remotely monitored and controlled.
This capability is particularly valuable when managing multiple installations across a network, as it make possible to identify potential faults and plan interventions according to the actual conditions of each facility.
Maintenance therefore becomes an integral part of the project and can be planned from the outset, taking into account accessibility, monitoring methods and the organization of maintenance activities.
To learn more about this topic, visit our web page dedicated to maintenance and assistance for SANO2 Solutions self-cleaning public washrooms.
How much does it cost to build and manage public washrooms along a highway?
The cost of a public washroom for a highway service area depends on the specific characteristics of the project. The number of facilities, level of automation, internal layout, provision of showers or changing rooms, installation works, customization and required capacity all affect the initial investment.
However, the financial assessment should also take into account what happens after installation. In facilities subject to high levels of use, consumption, maintenance, the frequency of the intervention, component lifespan and periods of potential unavailability can all have a significant impact on overall costs.
To properly assess different solutions, it is therefore important to consider the entire life cycle of the facility, relating the initial investment to performance, operating costs, durability and reliability.
The most appropriate solution is not necessarily the one with the lowest initial cost or the highest level of automation, but rather the one capable of delivering the required performance through sustainable long-term management.
Are you planning or upgrading public washrooms along at a highway service area?
Designing public washrooms for motorways requires consideration of user flows, different types of users, the duration of stops, the size of the service area, available technologies and management requirements.
Each service area requires a specific assessment, bringing together capacity planning, technology, space organization, complementary services and future management. SANO2 Solutions’ experience in designing public washrooms using modular structures makes it possible to address all these aspects within a coordinated project, from a single restroom facility to more complex service hubs.
Contact us or complete the form below. We will analyze the characteristics of the service area, expected users flows, users needs and management requirements to identify the solution best suited to your project.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about SANO2 SOLUTIONS washrooms
What facilities and types of washrooms can you provide?
We understand that each context has specific needs and requires bespoke solutions. That is why our range includes:
- Washrooms that can be integrated into existing premises, ensuring maximum adaptability to the space available.
- Precast freestanding outdoor structures
- Washrooms without connections when sewer, water and electricity are not available
Our solutions are designed to meet every need: whether you need several washrooms in a single room or individual washrooms, we at SANO2 SOLUTIONS we have the ideal project for your space.
Once you have defined the structure, choose the most suitable type of washroom: without connections, traditional or self-cleaning, at SANO2 SOLUTIONS you will find each of these solutions and all the support you need.
I do not have a drainage, water or electricity. Can you provide me with washrooms without plumbing?
Absolutely! Our S0 range of off-grid toilets is designed for areas that are far from water, sewerage and electricity. SANO2 SOLUTIONS’ Bathroom Zero allows you to install a prefabricated bathroom, that is accessible to the disabled, more durable than a chemical toilet and more versatile than a traditional bathroom. Bathroom Zero has a waste water tank to compensate for the lack of a sewer connection, a water storage tank connected to a rainwater collection system, and two photovoltaic panels to generate the electricity needed to light the bathroom. Plumbing-free solutions are highly valued by users for their added value as eco-friendly and sustainable bathrooms.
When it comes to materials, fittings and finishes, you are spoilt for choice! Visit the design page of our projects!
What kind of access can I install in the washrooms?
Entrance and exit systems for the washrooms depend on the needs of the customers and the area, which is why we offer several options.
Access can be free or paid, coin-operated or contactless with Nayax readers (you decide how much to set!).
Again, you can choose the access system by reading a QR code, a tax code or a EuroKey.
Do you want to buy a public washroom privately or do you want to respond to a public tender with your washroom project?
Whether you want to buy a public washroom as a private individual or you need a public washroom project for a tender, perhaps as a construction company, architect or town hall technician, at SANO2 SOLUTIONS we design public washrooms of all types, from those without plumbing to self-cleaning models.
As a global company, one of our main values is to respect the context, the regulations in each country, but above all, to respect the needs of the customer.
Tell us about your project, SANO2 SOLUTIONS will come to you and find solutions for all your needs.
Do you build Accessible Washrooms? Can I choose the equipment?
At SANO2 SOLUTIONS we design, build and install Accessible Washroom And Unisex Washroom. Accessibility is a core value for us and has always been a part of our offering. As an international company, when we design and build washrooms for people with disabilities, we always take care to comply with applicable regulations: each country has its own dimensions, equipment, access and measures designed specifically designed for safe use by people with reduced mobility.
Our public washrooms are fully customisable, you choose the layout. For example, we can include instructions in Braille or record voice commands in the washroom, we can install the hand shower next to the washroom or include SOS buttons easily accessible from the seat.
You can rely on our experience in the industry and our knowledge of public disabled washroom regulations.
Can I get a maintenance contract for my washroom? How do you manage washrooms?
Of course you can! We guarantee the maintenance of our self-cleaning washrooms through our All In maintenance service, which is an integral part of our offer. In addition, we can offer a range of maintenance packages on request, depending on your specific needs.
Our All In maintenance service includes:
- Routine maintenance: cleaning and replenishment of consumables, typically twice a month
- Predictive maintenance: thanks to our powerful remote control tool we can intervene before components fail, reducing the time the washroom is inefficient.
- Technical maintenance: carried out by specialised technicians, it involves checking all the automatisms, usually once a month.
- Telephone support: active on working days, we provide assistance and intervene on the washroom, thanks to remote control, solving most of the problems.
Do you have a guarantee on your washrooms? For how many years?
Yes, all our washrooms are covered by a guarantee. By law, the warranty on manufacturing defects is one year, but we at SANO2 SOLUTIONS have decided to extend it to 2 years to give you greater peace of mind and security in your investment.