Schools are some of the toughest environments for building materials and fittings. With hundreds of students using facilities every day, the products chosen must withstand heavy use, be easy to clean, and remain safe and compliant over time. When it comes to wash areas, stainless steel wash troughs — whether a single stainless steel wash trough or multiple stainless wash troughs installed side-by-side — are widely recognised as the most reliable solution.

At Marko Stainless, we have been designing and fabricating stainless wash troughs for Australian schools since 1994. All our troughs are manufactured locally, built to last, and EFSG compliant to meet Department of Education standards.

Hygiene and Cleanliness in Schools

Hygiene is a top priority in any school environment. Students regularly need to wash their hands after art, sport, or science classes, and facilities must be designed for quick and effective cleaning.

Stainless steel offers a distinct advantage here. The smooth, non-porous surface of a stainless wash trough prevents bacteria from harbouring in cracks or pores. Unlike ceramic or plastic alternatives, stainless won’t absorb stains or odours, and it can be disinfected quickly with standard cleaning products. This makes stainless steel the safest and most hygienic choice for schools that need to reduce the risk of germ transmission.

Durability and Strength Under Constant Use

School wash areas are subject to heavy and sometimes rough use. Fixtures can be bumped by schoolbags, knocked by sporting equipment, or exposed to the elements in outdoor courtyards. A stainless steel wash trough is designed to handle this pressure.

Fabricated from high-quality 304 or 316 stainless steel, our wash troughs resist corrosion, even when installed outdoors. They won’t chip, crack, or break under impact the way ceramic or composite troughs can. This long-term durability reduces maintenance costs for schools and gives peace of mind to builders and architects who want to specify reliable products.

EFSG Compliance – Meeting Australian Standards

When specifying fittings for schools, compliance is non-negotiable. Every Australian school project must meet EFSG (Education Facilities Standards & Guidelines) requirements, ensuring that fixtures are safe, practical, and long-lasting.

All Marko Stainless wash troughs are EFSG compliant. This ensures that they meet the strict criteria for safety, hygiene, and durability required by state and private education bodies. For builders and architects, this means no risk of non-compliant fittings causing delays, disputes, or costly replacements.

Custom Wash Trough Options

No two schools are exactly alike, which is why Marko Stainless offers a wide range of wash trough sizes and configurations. Our standard range includes lengths from compact 900mm troughs through to multi-student 1800mm wash troughs and beyond.

We also offer flexibility in design:

  • Tapware options — wall-mounted or trough-mounted taps from trusted brands such as Galvin and Enware.
  • Bubblers and drinking troughs — for outdoor playgrounds and sports areas.
  • Integrated splashbacks — to protect walls and make cleaning easier.
  • Custom lengths and depths — to suit specific architectural designs.

This ability to fabricate to order makes Marko Stainless the go-to partner for builders and architects managing education projects across Australia.

Why Choose Stainless Steel Over Alternatives?

While there are cheaper materials available, such as plastic or ceramic, they rarely offer the same long-term value. Plastic troughs can crack, warp, and discolour under UV exposure. Ceramic troughs, while hygienic, are prone to chips and breakage in high-traffic environments.

In contrast, stainless steel wash troughs are vandal-resistant, weather-resistant, and designed for decades of use. This makes them the most cost-effective solution when considering the full life cycle of a school building.

Marko Stainless – Trusted Since 1994

Marko Stainless has been serving Australian schools, architects, and builders for over 30 years. We are proud to be an ASSDA accredited fabricator, which means our workmanship meets the strict standards of the Australian Stainless Steel Development Association. Our wash troughs, urinals, and mirrors are not only EFSG compliant but also fabricated with precision and care in our Newcastle workshop.

We supply our products both directly and through leading plumbing wholesalers, making it easy for schools and contractors to access our range.


Conclusion

For schools, the choice of washroom and handwashing facilities has long-term implications. Choosing stainless steel wash troughs ensures hygiene, durability, compliance, and value for money. Whether you need a single compact trough or a large multi-student installation, Marko Stainless has the expertise and experience to deliver.


Contact Marko Stainless today to request a quote on EFSG compliant stainless wash troughs. Built for Australian schools, built to last.