An Analysis of an Outcome and Improvement Approach to Thailand’s Public Toilet Policy

Abstract

          This study aims to analyze the outcomes of Thailand’s public toilet development policy, and; to make policy recommendations regarding progress on the public toilet development operations. The study relied on in-depth interviews with 52 key informants involved in Thai public toilet development policy implementation. The research tools used semi-structured interview format using content analysis and result presentation. The results of the study revealed that the Department of Health was the main responsible agency under the Thai public toilet development policy. The proportion of public toilets meeting national HAS (health accessibility safety) standards in the master development plan, phases 1, 2 and 3, from 2005 to 2016, is likely to increase both in terms of passing HAS standards as well as Thailand public toilet excellence awards. The policy outcomes were found to impact public health, the economy and socio-cultural factors amongst many others. The results also indicated that policy strategies should be adjusted to more fully achieve objectives; the policy should consider Thailand’s future aging society, ASEAN Economic Community: AEC and; the policy should consider the use of waste products from public toilets for economic and environmental ends in accordance with self-sufficiency economy philosophy.