Pit latrine
- Slovak term: Slovenský termín
- Latrine with a pit for accumulation and decomposition of excrete and from which liquid infiltrates into the surrounding soil (WHO 1992).
- A pit latrine is usually a dry system and the most basic form of disposal for human defecation. It consists of a hole in the ground with a floor plate placed over the top (World Plumbing Council Working Group 2008).
Explanation
Traditional pit latrines usually consist of a single pit covered by a slab with a drop hole and a superstructure. The slab may be made of wood (sometimes covered with mud) or reinforced concrete. The superstructure provides shelter and privacy for the user. Basic improvements include a hygienic self-draining floor made of smooth, durable material and with raised foot rests; a tight-fitting lid that covers the drop hole, to reduce smells and keep insects out of the pit; a floor raised above ground level to prevent flooding; an adequately lined pit, to prevent the pit collapsing (e.g. when the soil is unstable); and an adequate foundation, to prevent damage of the slab and superstructure (WHO 2003).
If a latrine is a dry pit it will not penetrate the water table. If the pit is wet, then the water table is at risk ( World Plumbing Council Working Group 2008).
It is recognised that although not ideal, a pit latrine allows for safer and more hygienic disposal of human waste than open defecation (World Plumbing Council Working Group 2008).
A pit latrine is not suitable where there are high population densities (World Plumbing Council Working Group 2008).
Example
Examples of pit latrines include a single pit with a floor plate in place, a ventilated improved pit (VIP), or a double vaulted ventilated pit (World Plumbing Council Working Group 2008).
References
- WHO (1992) A Guide to the Development of On-Site Sanitation
- WHO (2003) Linking Technology Choice with Operation and Maintenance in the Context of Community Water Supply and Sanitation: A reference document for planners and project staff
