Agreement with BSK Inc. for Disaster Relief Toilet Provisions in Toshima

On May 22, 2023, Toshima Ward officially signed an agreement with BSK Inc. at the Toshima Ward Office to ensure the provision of temporary toilets during disaster emergencies. This partnership aims to improve sanitation conditions for evacuees and address toileting needs effectively during crises.

Background on BSK Inc.

BSK Inc., headquartered in Osaka, specializes in the sale and rental of temporary toilets under the vision of "Creating a better society with comfortable portable toilets." With a proven track record, the company supplied comfortable temporary toilets to evacuation centers in Ishikawa Prefecture during the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024, responding to a request from the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

Purpose of the Agreement

The agreement is designed to mitigate the toilet shortages often experienced during disasters by facilitating the establishment of temporary toilets at designated locations within the ward. It also encompasses the provision of disaster stockpiles, including food supplies and rental equipment necessary for effective emergency responses.

Through the procurement and installation of high-quality "comfortable toilets," this initiative seeks to quickly alleviate the severe toilet shortages that arise due to water outages and infrastructure failures at sheltering centers, thereby providing a safer and more secure environment for evacuees.

Comments from the Toshima Ward Mayor

Upon signing the agreement, Toshima Ward Mayor Miyuki Takagi stated, "We are focusing on improving toilet conditions in shelters, especially for women, the elderly, and other residents. With the provision of comfortable toilets, we aim to ensure that evacuees can use the facilities safely, thus reducing disaster-related deaths. BSK Inc. is an essential partner in enhancing shelter environments, and I am grateful that we could finalize this agreement."

Features Required for Comfortable Toilets

According to guidelines set by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, comfortable toilets must meet eleven standard specifications. These specifications include:
1. Western-style toilets.
2. Flushing and simple flushing functions.
3. Odor prevention features.
4. Secure locking mechanisms.
5. Adequate lighting.
6. Hooks for hanging personal items and shelves for bags.
7. Clear gender-specific signage.
8. Privacy screens at entries.
9. Sanitary boxes.
10. Mirrors and handwashing sinks.
11. Sanitation supplies, including toilet seat disinfectants.

Summary of the Agreement Signing Ceremony

- Date and Time: May 22, 2023, from 14:00 to 14:30
- Venue: 5th-floor Mayor's Reception Room, Toshima Ward Office
- Overview: Signing of the agreement and speeches from representatives
- Attendees: BSK Inc. President Akira Mitani and Toshima Ward Mayor Miyuki Takagi

Visuals from the Ceremony

The signing ceremony featured moments of engagement among participants, showcasing the commitment of both parties towards enhancing disaster preparedness. A commemorative photo session concluded the event, symbolizing the partnership's strength in addressing urgent community needs in times of crisis.

For further details, please download the official release here.