HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PORTABLE CABIN FOR YOUR SITE

Choosing the best portable cabin for your site requires careful planning, balancing the specific needs of your business, your workforce and any specific requirements linked to your project. Portable cabins provide reliable accommodation and welfare amenities, but selecting the most appropriate solution for your space and workforce demands thorough research.

In this guide, we'll draw on our experience as a veteran supplier of high-quality UK-made portable units to construction sites, universities and events, to talk you through the types of portable cabins available, and how to choose the best units for your needs.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR MATCHING CABINS TO YOUR PROJECT REQUIREMENTS

Sleeper cabins and welfare facilities come in a range of standard and bespoke specifications. Planning in advance enables you to choose units that accommodate your full workforce, offer sufficient amenities and fit the space available without creating cramped or unsafe conditions.

For example:

• Workers living on-site will need sleeper cabins, toilet facilities, shower blocks and dining spaces.
• If accommodation is not necessary, temporary offices, toilet cabins and changing rooms may be sufficient.

A good cabin lease firm will be able to supply specifications, including cabin dimensions, internal layouts, stock reference details and customisation options for heating, vinyl flooring, security features, windows and more.

Facilities should be centrally located where possible, with safe, well-lit pathways between buildings. Care should be taken to separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic to maintain a clear site layout that supports worker safety and accessibility.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF PORTABLE BUILDING

Depending on the demands of your project, you will almost always be able to source and install portable cabins in suitable sizes and configurations - whether you require secure temporary worker accommodation, a temporary office or hygiene facilities. Choosing the right type of portable building can contribute to the success of your project by providing essential amenities efficiently and cost-effectively.

Here are the main types of portable cabins and their key features:

Sleeper cabins

One of the most common uses for portable cabins is as site sleepers for on-site workers. Installing site sleepers on your site will reduce hotel accommodation costs, avoid travel-based delays and improve project turnaround times. Sleeper cabins are designed to offer comfort, convenience and versatility, and they are often the most affordable and reliable way to house workers when compared to hotels and rented accommodation, particularly when you factor in travel times and availability at remote sites.

Sleeper cabins vary in size and layout, depending on the number of occupants they can accommodate and the facilities they include. All our portable cabins offer en-suite toilet facilities and showers for maximum convenience. Options range from single sleeper cabins that provide privacy and a restful night’s sleep for one inhabitant, to twin sleeper cabins for multiple occupants. Bespoke sleeper units are also available for those who require extra storage space. These units come with vinyl flooring for easy maintenance, and a larger workstation to enhance day-to-day living.

Shower cabins

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) outlines that these must be readily accessible, clean and provide hot and cold running water, soap and drying facilities. Failure to meet these standards can result in regulatory enforcement action, fines or project delays.

Shower cabins typically feature multiple heated showers, gender-separated amenities and lockable doors for privacy and security. Installing dedicated shower facilities not only supports compliance with health and safety law but also improves worker morale and welfare.

Toilet cabins

Toilets are mandatory under employment regulations for those working on-site for extended periods. Employers must provide accessible and hygienic toilet facilities, or face legal penalties enforced by HSE.

Toilet cabins can be installed as stand-alone units or combined with shower blocks, depending on the size and layout of your site. Facilities can be gender-divided and securely locked to maintain privacy. When planning your welfare facilities, it is important to consider future expansion and the potential for increasing site headcount, so that your toilet cabins continue to meet the needs of your workforce over time.

Social cabins

Portable cabins can also serve as vital communal spaces on-site. Modular buildings such as diners offer shelter from the elements, providing workers with a comfortable area to prepare food, rest and socialise.

In harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, extreme cold or intense heat, social cabins are an occupational necessity, and a vital morale booster. Without proper welfare space, workers may struggle to stay safe, comfortable and motivated, and businesses could face compliance issues under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

DO YOU NEED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR TEMPORARY BUILDINGS IN THE UK?

Not all portable cabins require planning permission, but the rules depend on the intended use, location, size and setup period. In some cases, temporary classrooms, welfare cabins or additional office space can be installed and connected under permitted development rights if they remain in place for fewer than 28 days a year. Longer-term hire or purchase, or use in protected areas, often requires approval from your local authority. The installation process may involve submitting drawings and site plans, showing how the structure is manufactured and constructed to meet building regulations. Always check with your local planning authority before proceeding to avoid delays and unnecessary costs.

WHY CHOOSE PORTABLE CABINS?

Some businesses choose to accommodate workers in hotels. However, this approach can be expensive, inconvenient and impractical - especially when workers must travel daily between the hotel and the site.

Choosing the best portable cabin solution offers a cost-effective, flexible and convenient alternative. Units can be installed directly on or adjacent to your construction site or project location to minimise travel time, improve productivity and maintain better oversight of worker welfare.

Bunkabin offers a range of high-quality portable cabins that meet modern specifications for comfort, durability and security. Our cabins feature robust materials, energy-efficient heating and durable vinyl flooring to meet your project's unique requirements.

Our insulated cabins are designed for functionality, security and protection across a vast range of industries and sectors, giving customers a complete, handy solution that balances benefits with compliance.

We understand that businesses require a balance between affordability and quality. With a focus on cost-effective solutions and rapid delivery, our cabins can accommodate the needs of any workforce, whether you need facilities for a small construction team, a major infrastructure project or even long-term student accommodation.

If you would like to explore our full range of portable cabins, view case studies of past projects or request specifications for your future site, visit the Our Cabins page. You can also get in touch with us today by calling 0345 456 7899 or filling out an online contact form.