Unlocking Benefits: Why Restroom Operators Should Consider Industry Associations

Should Restroom Operators join an Industry Association?

Host Pete weighs the pros and cons of this decision, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific benefits that such associations can offer.

He notes that while many organizations, such as the Portable Sanitation Association International and its European counterparts, aim to elevate industry standards and provide valuable resources, the decision to join should be carefully weighed against the costs involved and the relevance of the offered services to one's specific operational context.

Pete articulates a clear preference for innovation-driven environments rather than those strictly governed by regulations, suggesting that engaging with industry peers can foster a collaborative atmosphere that encourages growth and improvement. Furthermore, he highlights the communal aspect of these associations, where members often share insights and advice, reinforcing the idea that networking can be as valuable as the formal resources provided.

Ultimately, restroom operators must assess their own needs and the potential of these associations to enhance their business practices before making a commitment.

Takeaways:

• Joining an industry association can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities for restroom operators.
• While industry associations are beneficial, the choice to join should consider costs and relevance to your area.
• Operators should be wary of low-quality competitors who may undercut standards and regulations.
• It's important for restroom operators to engage with passionate peers who share their industry insights.
• Innovative environments are preferable to strictly regulated ones, as they foster better practices.
• Ultimately, connecting with others in the industry can lead to shared knowledge and support.

Episode Transcript

(00:08):
Hello and welcome to this GetFlushed short. I'm Pete. Today's
question is, as a restroomoperator, should I join an industry
association? I was verycareful in my choice of words when
I scripted this episode. Idon't want to make out that I'm either
for or against any particularassociations, organizations or governing
bodies. If you type in aGoogle search or hit the restroom

(00:29):
pages on social media, you'llno doubt come across several major
players in this space. InNorth America, it's the Portable
Sanitation AssociationInternational Europe has portable
sanitation Europe and Africahas the association of mobile and
Portable Sanitation Africa. Inaddition to those, there are various
different higher industry orrental industry associations worldwide.

(00:51):
Most of these organisationsare subscription based, meaning that
you have to pay to join them.They all share knowledge and information
and they're all dedicated toraising standards across the portable
restroom industry. Now, I'mnot a fan of compulsory or statutory
standards unless they'resupported by rigorous compliance
as well as punitive measuresfor those who breach them or fail
to maintain them. See, I'dmuch rather work in an environment

(01:14):
that's driven by innovationthan regulation. Otherwise, the good
people spend their time,effort and money raising the bar,
only to be undercut by thosewho are more commercially driven
or perhaps just plainunscrupulous. That said, there can
be a tremendous amount ofvalue in joining an industry association.
Their resources are plentifuland the opportunity to network is

(01:35):
absolutely immense. By allmeans, sign up, join in a few events,
take a look at the resourcesthey offer. You might decide it's
not for you. The cost can be afactor and some of the content may
not suit the way things aredone in your part of the world. But
pumpers on the whole tend tobe open and friendly people. They're
passionate about what they doand they're usually willing to share
their advice. Plus, it alwayspays to have friends. That's all

(01:59):
for today. I've been Pete andthis has been a Get Flushed short.