Portable toilet

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A portable toilet is a modern, portable, self-contained outhouse manufactured of molded plastic in a variety of colors and are often used as a temporary toilet for construction sites and large social gatherings. Portable toilets are referred to colloquially or sold under such brands as port-a-john, port-o-let, sani-privy, port-a-san, porta-potty, toi-toi, porta-kybo or portaloo. The word Portaloo is legally a trademark of Portakabin, Ltd., but has been genericized to refer to any make of portable toilet, at least within the UK and Ireland.

Portable toilets are large enough for a single occupant - usually about 90 cm (3 ft) on a side by 210 cm (7 ft). They are held upright by the weight of the deodorant liquid in the holding tank at the bottom but are usually secured to the ground to prevent high winds blowing them over. Nearly all include both a seated toilet and a urinal. Most include lockable doors, ventilation near the top, and a stovepipe vent for the holding tank. Leaving the toilet lid open will reverse the flow of the venting of the tank. Some newer models include toilet paper or, occasionally, antibacterial hand gel dispensers.

Though more expensive than a standard permanent outdoor latrine, portable toilets have several significant benefits mostly related to their portability. They are rented to customers by companies that guarantee their cleanliness, and so as a rule are drained, cleaned, disinfected and deodorized on a regular basis. As they are not plumbed, they do not clog or overflow. A single portable toilet can be hauled in the back of a pick-up truck. An average portable toilet is able to hold enough sewage for 10 people during the course of a 40 hour work week before the hold reaches unsanitary conditions.

They are frequently seen at outdoor work sites, particularly construction sites, and large banks of dozens of portable toilets allow for ready sanitation at large gatherings such as outdoor music festivals.

It has become common for portable toilets to be paired with portable hand washing station. These stations provide a foot pump to dispense water to wash one's hands after using the toilets. Soap and towels may be provided.

In the UK, the term "Porta-Potty" is more likely to refer to a portable chemical toilet used for camping and in small boats. This device comprises only the actual toilet itself with privacy being provided by a separate tent or partition.

The Portable Sanitation Association International is the recognized authority on the operation of portable toilets.