Restroom Calculator

Need an estimate for how many porta potties your event needs? Use this handy calculator! For a more specific quote tailored to your needs, call us today at 800-210-8407!

My event is estimated at attendees, for hours.
  • Will there be more women than men?
  • Will there be alcohol served?

Your Estimated Sanitation Services

Based on what you've told us, we've generated this estimate for your needs.

If you have more details or would like expert advice to make sure you get the best sanitation solution, please call us at 800.210.8407.

Estimated Standard Portable Restrooms Needed: 0
Estimated Hand Wash Stations Needed: 0
Estimated Enhanced Access Restrooms Needed: 0

Looking for a custom quote on those items?

REQUEST QUOTE

Category: Heating

Winter Construction Success – 5 Must Haves

Winter Construction Success - 5 Must Haves

“There are two seasons in the Midwest, winter season and construction season”. We have all heard of this joke before! Yes, it would be ideal to complete all construction projects during the summer, but when your winter season lasts nearly 7 months, some Midwesterners are forced to work on their construction projects in extremely cold weather. It is still possible to have a successful construction project during the winter. Here are our 5 must haves to ensure winter construction success:

 

The Right Heater for Your Site

S1505 Direct Fired Heater On Site

Choosing the right heater for your job site can depend on different factors. To get started on gearing up your construction site for the winter, here are five types of heaters you could use to keep your job site and team warm during those working hours:

  1. Direct Fired Heaters – used at construction sites where efficiency is top priority. The job site must have enough clearance for placement.
  2. Indirect Fired Heaters – used at locations where safety is top priority. Often used at locations that have occupants.
  3. Direct Fired Enclosed Flame Heaters – used for job sites or special events where top priority is having easily duct-able heat.
  4. Electric Heaters – used for locations that have access to electricity and where non-combustible heat is required.
  5. Convection Heaters – used for construction sites with no available electricity or natural gas line.

Other Portable Heating Solutions to Consider for Winter Construction Success

E3000 Hydronic Ground Heater and Thawing Blankets on site

The biggest challenge when working at a construction site during the winter is probably curing concrete. Concrete tends to have a difficult time setting when temperatures are too low. You should consider using a ground thawing unit as well as thawing blankets to ensure that concrete cures without difficulty. Ground heaters thaw frozen ground, cure concrete, prevent frost, and provide temporary air heat for your job site. Pairing the unit with ground thaw blankets also allows to spread the heat around the area and make your construction project more productive.

 

Having Technical Support Available for Heater Malfunction

950H Direct Fired Heater On Site

If you’re making good use of heating equipment at your construction site, you might come across equipment malfunction. Do not fear! Typically, these malfunctions are a result of user errors. They are quick and easy fixes if you have the proper equipment. We strongly recommend checking out our Portable Heater Troubleshooting Guide on your own before calling for help. If you are still having issues, having Heat Technician assistance would be recommended to make sure you don’t fall behind on construction deadlines. At On Site, we have state of the art equipment and Heat Technicians that available to deliver, set up, and pick up up heaters. They are also available to assist in troubleshooting by phone or on site if needed. Customers should call 651-429-3781 to get in touch.

 

“Winter-Proof” Portable Restroom for Winter Construction Success

Construction Portable Restroom - Winter Construction

Preparing your portable restroom rental for winter constructions is also an important factor to consider. Portable restrooms are usually outdoors and exposed to the freezing temperatures. To best winterize your portable restrooms, make sure to include a portable restroom electric space heater when renting out a unit. At On Site, our Sanitation Technicians fill the portable restroom tanks with a methanol mixture to prevent the water and waste from freezing. Making sure job site workers can comfortably make use of a restroom can ensure productivity for your construction project.

 

A Safe Working Environment for Your Team

Construction Thawing Blankets set up

Employers must always make sure to comply with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards to keep their employees safe in the workplace.  Personal protective equipment (PPE) can protect workers from most hazards, but workers must also consider hazards related to extreme cold weather. OSHA does not have specific safety requirements for winter constructions. However, they do provide guidelines that employers should follow to protect workers from the dangers of cold stress . Some of these guidelines include training workers on cold weather safety. Making sure they have the proper tools and gear for cold weather also keeps them safe.

 

The On Site Solution for Your Winter Construction Success

Don’t let the freezing temperatures scare you! Winter construction success is still possible if you make sure your job site is properly equipped. At On Site Companies, we can provide you with a wide selection of portable heaters and winterized portable restrooms for your job site. Not sure which heater is best for your project? Contact us for a personalized service from one of our representatives. You can also call us or request a quote today for the best heating and sanitation solutions!

Read more

Cold Weather Safety Requirements & OSHA

Cold Weather Safety Requirements & OSHA

The end of summer is the best time to set up construction sites for cold weather. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) keeps guidelines up to date to keep workers safe. Are there any cold weather safety requirements? OSHA has not set specific safety requirements for working in freezing environments. However, exposing workers to extremely cold weather for long periods of time could cause serious physical harm. This conflicts with OSHA regulations (Section A(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970). Therefore, employers are accountable for the safety of their workers. OSHA advises the following four ways to keep employees out of harm’s way during dangerously cold workdays.

 

Training on Cold Weather Safety 

Workers should know how to recognize the effects of being exposed to freezing temperatures. This is why employers must train them on working through hazardous conditions. Some of these conditions might include slippery roads and gusty, cold winds. One of the worst dangers workers face in extreme cold weather is cold stress. Cold stress results in cold-related illnesses and injuries. Workers should also be trained on recognizing symptoms to prevent injuries or illnesses.

 

Proper Tools (engineering controls for cold weather)

To reduce the likelihood of cold stress, employers could set engineering controls in place. As an example, electric heaters could be used to keep the workplace warm and comfortable for employees. For the construction industry, there are many types of heaters available to successfully complete projects in cold weather. The use of these benefits workers and decreases their exposure to hazardous working conditions.

 

Work Practices for Cold Weather Safety 

Implementing work practices that ensure worker safety is crucial to preventing injuries and illnesses. OSHA advises employers to consider providing workers with the right equipment and protection from cold weather. Employers must also keep weather conditions in mind when sending them out and limit exposure time to very cold temperatures. They should be constantly monitoring weather conditions to ensure cold weather safety. Be sure to keep an eye on workers and provide them with warm liquids. This will ensure their well-being while on the job. Finally, it’s recommended to optimize the flow of communication. This is crucial in case of emergencies that may occur due to hazardous working conditions.

 

Proper Gear (warm clothing)

One of the top risk factors of cold stress is dressing improperly while working in cold weather. OSHA does not have specific requirements set for ordinary clothing besides personal protective equipment (PPE) when applicable. However, employers should still give workers winter weather gear to protect them from the dangers of cold stress. A few layers of wool or synthetic clothing would be a great. A hat capable of covering ears is a necessity. A knit mask for the face would also be helpful. Insulated and waterproof gloves will protect  hands from frostbite. Insulated boots are needed to protect the feet.

 

The On Site Solution

Even though OSHA does not have cold weather safety requirements, they do have guidelines for employers to use in the workplace. These guidelines would best prepare their workers who work in cold weather. At On Site Companies, we can provide a wide range of high quality portable heaters to keep your works safe through cold weather. These heaters would also keep your construction site operational and productive during winter season. Call us today or request a quote for the best temporary heating solutions.

Read more

Troubleshooting 101: Portable Heaters

Top 5 Benefits of Using Methanol for Portable Restrooms

Troubleshooting portable heaters can be a difficult task. Just because your portable heater won’t start up doesn’t necessarily mean it’s broken. If you are using On Site Companies’ products and you run into this issue, be sure to use this helpful guide below to test why your equipment isn’t working.

If you are renting from us and are still unable to start your portable heater after carefully following the instructions below, please contact us at 651-429-3781 to schedule an On Site Heat Technician to be dispatched immediately.

Troubleshooting Portable Ground Heaters

  • Make sure there is power to the machine
  • Make sure there is fuel in the machine
  • For the E1100 – make sure to wrap fuel tank and fuel filter with extra hose and blanket to avoid fuel gelling
  • Make sure the unit is level – if not, machine may be showing a false low level fault
  • Check to make sure there is nothing laying on the lines
  • Be sure the pump is running (check flow meters – a.k.a. spinning dials) to make sure they are turning:
  • 1) If not pumping – check for low level fault light located on control panel
  • 2) If in low level fault – there may be a leak
  • Check for leaks
  • Make sure the burner is on:
  • 1) Check burner fault module located on the side door (green button and red light)
  • 2) Press and hold green button for 45 seconds to try and reset

 

Troubleshooting Standard Portable Heaters

  • Make sure the start button has been pressed
  • Be sure the heater is plugged in to a dedicated 120v / 20amp outlet
  • Check to see if the GFI/breaker has been tripped
  • Be sure the thermostat is set high enough to call for heat
  • Be sure the gas is on:
  • 1) For propane – check the valve to the tank and also the “t” valve right after the red regulator
  • 2) For natural gas – check the “t” valve right after the meter
  • If you are burning propane check to see if there is at least 20% in the tank
  • Be sure there are no materials blocking the front or back of the heater
  • Check to see if the hose is kinked or if there is anything on it such as lumber, vehicles, etc.
  • Be sure gas selector valve is in the correct position if applicable (natural gas or propane)
  • Be sure all extension cords are grounded
  • All ductwork must be straight to maintain constant air flow

 

We also have portable heater troubleshooting videos for a dirty flame sensor rod, dirty spark plug, and bad fuel connection.

 

The On Site Solutions

On Site Companies’ staff is full of industry experts that can provide you with solutions to your temporary heating needs. We take pride in providing you with the perfect equipment for your application and making sure it runs properly during your rental period. Browse our portable heaters and request a quote below!

Read more

How to Start Your Temporary Heating Plan

How to Start Your Temporary Heating Plan

There are a lot of variables to consider when creating a temporary heating plan for the winter. By preparing accordingly, you can find an efficient heating solution that is cost effective and keeps everyone safe. Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

What is your goal?

Defining your needs and determining what you are trying to accomplish will give you the foundation for a good heating plan. Are you just trying to keep everyone warm or is there another goal to keep in mind? Maybe you’re trying to thaw the ground or cure concrete. Different goals require different heaters – and sometimes a combination of different equipment.

 

What fuel source is available?

Not all heaters use the same fuel source. The last thing you want to do is spend a lot of time and effort into creating the perfect temporary heating solution only to find out in the end that the heaters you were planning to use require a fuel source that you don’t have available at the site.

 

What power is available?

Similarly to the topic of fuel source, different types of heaters require different types of power. Taking this into consideration before you start to browse for heaters will ultimately save you a lot of headache as opposed to neglecting to do so.

 

How many BTU’s do you need?

Determining the correct number of BTU’s needed for a project is essential to a successful temporary heating solution. In order to calculate the perfect number you will need to define the dimensions of the space, the preferred temperature of the inside, and the estimated temperature of the outside.

 

Not good at math? It’s okay – use our handy portable heat calculator. Just click the red calculator icon to the right of the webpage. Input all of the necessary data and you will be one step closer to creating the perfect plan!

 

The On Site Solutions

Having an industry expert on your side is ultimately the most cost effective and efficient route to go about creating a temporary heating plan. For over 30 years we have helped our community with their climate control needs. Check out our website for more information on our portable heaters. Call us today or request a quote below for the perfect temporary heating solution.

Read more

Top 5 Ways to Heat Up Your Construction Site

Top 5 Ways to Heat Up Your Construction Site

Cold weather isn’t going to stop your construction team. Heating up your job site can be a daunting task if you don’t know where to start! There are several ways to keep your team warm with portable heating solutions. Here’s five ways to heat up your construction site.

1) Direct Fired Heaters

Direct fired heaters will quickly heat large areas, while forcing moisture and contaminates out through pressurized methods. These heaters are perfect for use on your job site. All of these units burn 100% outside air.

2) Indirect Fired Heaters 

Indirect fired heaters will provide you with comfortable portable, temporary heat that is environmentally friendly and portable. Indirect Fired Heaters are an enclosed flame heat alternative that work by venting harmful combustion by-products outside, while also eliminating harmful contaminants and moisture from the air.

3) Direct Fired Enclosed Flame Heaters

Direct enclosed flame heaters are portable, quiet, and are easily moved from one area to another. With remote thermostats and security options, you can monitor the equipment usage and temperature control.

4) Electric Heaters 

Electric space heaters are designed to be used in small spaces where non-combustible heat sources are required. These units allow you to provide heat to your job site, without having to vent out fumes. This allows you to heat any area in a safe and efficient manner.

5) Convention Heaters

Convection heaters are perfect for use when you need temporary heating, but you do not have electricity or natural gas available for a fuel source. These units use vapor propane instead to produce direct fired heat.

Bonus: Ground Thaw Units

Utilizing units such as ground thaw heaters, heat exchangers, and ground thaw blankets is another great way to remove ice from the ground of your job site and keep it warm for your workers.

The On Site Solutions

On Site Companies has all of the above solutions to heat up your construction site. Here are all of our portable heaters for construction. It is never too early to begin planning for cold weather. We recommend that our customers do so to ensure that we have the right solutions for you available when you need it. Call us today to discuss your needs – we would love to provide you with a quote specifically tailored to your job site.

Read more

Quick Guide To Ground Heat

A common misconception surrounding construction work is that it is a warm weather only event. In truth, there is a lot of work that can be done when the temperatures drop below freezing. And, if you add in temporary heating and ground heating, you can keep all the work going.

It’s true that frozen ground can be a serious impediment to building projects. It seems a basic law of physics, as things get colder they move slower, affects not just molecules but humans as well. As the ground freezes (ie: the molecules move slower) work can slow down too. There is an easy solution to both those problems, though. Ground heat equipment can keep your project (and team) moving.

How Ground Heat Works

Ground heat, or ground thaw if you prefer, is a fairly simple concept. Where other methods for heating areas may rely on tents, ground thaw relies on warmed liquid circulating through temporary hoses or pipes that cover an area of ground. The water is heated by a hyrdonic ground heater and pumped through the hoses.

These heaters are usually fueled by diesel. Typically, their fluid tank capacity can range from 50 gallons to more than 200 gallons. The more fluid a heater is able to hold, the more area it can heat.

The ground heater can also be used with ground thaw blankets. These “blankets” are quite different from what you have on your bed, though. They are massive tarp-like insulated sheets that can be spread over large areas. These blankets help keep the heat radiating from the hoses close to the ground, making the process far more efficient.

Ground Thaw Uses

Ground heat has a variety of uses and applications. The obvious use is for construction. With ground thaw, you can thaw the ground and keep working. There is also the advantage with ground heat being able to protect footings from frost heaving.

Ground thaw can also be used to help concrete curing. With heaters, you can achieve your required strength gain sooner by controlling the temperature. Because it is a dry heat, these heaters can help your project with avoiding water damage as well.

Beyond construction, other industries can make use of ground thaw equipment. Landscapers can get a jump start on their work with ground heaters. For agriculturists or horticulturists, ground heat can help keep plants alive for longer harvest in the fall. In the spring, plants can start their growing season on time no matter what the weather is doing with strategic ground heat.

To get expert advice and a custom quote for your project’s ground heat needs, call On Site Companies today at 800-210-8407.

Read more

4 Tips for Planning the Perfect Winter Wedding

If you’re from Minnesota, chances are you are a lover of winter. So planning a winter wedding is a must for those cold-loving couples. Although, not everyone is a huge fan of the cold, and if you have friends and family coming from out of state, you might want to offer them a place to escape from the chill. (more…)

Read more

How to Cure Concrete In Sub-Freezing Temperatures

The Midwest is typically subject to some pretty cold temperatures during the winter months, but although the weather may sometimes be unbearable, construction doesn’t necessarily stop. Winter can seem like a tough season for curing concrete, but it can’t always be avoided.

Concrete is best set at a mild temperature of 50 to 60 degrees F. In the winter, the temperatures are likely to be significantly lower, making it hard to properly cure. Snow, ice, and cold weather cause delays in construction, and if not exposed to the right elements, the concrete can be weak and brittle once dry. Curing concrete in cold weather can seem like a bit of a challenge, but with the right tools, it can be achieved. (more…)

Read more

Checking Fuel Connection and Levels

If you start your direct fired heater and the fan starts, but the flame doesn’t start you may have a bad fuel connection or low fuel levels. Check your spark plug as well. If the spark plug is functioning it may be a bad fuel connection.

Read more

Cleaning Dirty Spark Plug

If the fan on the heater turns on, but the heater will not light you may have a dirty spark plug. A key indication that this is the case is if you smell gas with the fan is running. To complete this process you will need you direct fired heater and a wire brush.

Read more
Request a quote

Find the right rental for your job site or occasion by exploring available options and prices.

Request Quote

Archives