Emergency Latrine Superstructure Development

One of Oxfam's comparative advantage in sanitation responses in emergencies is the development and use of kits that can quickly be installed and used in first phase emergencies and therefore limiting spread of potential communicable diseases like diarrhoea that are often responsible for high morbidity and mortality among people affected by disasters. Oxfam has for years used latrine slabs on pits varying from monarflex to self-supporting slabs to rapidly facilitate proper excreta disposal in emergencies.

A slab placed over a pit or trench provides a safe way of disposing human excreta in emergency situation, however a superstructure over the pit and slab is important to:

1. Provide privacy
2. Preserve the dignity of users
3. Protect users against adverse weather conditions
4. Facilitate keeping the facility clean and usable

Many organisations including Oxfam use plastic sheeting and tarpaulin materials for superstructure construction in first phase emergencies. This material is often replaced by local materials at later stages of the response. Whereas plastic sheeting and tarpaulin latrine superstructures protect users from adverse weather conditions, and provides at least some privacy, they often fall short of providing enough privacy and dignity.  It is also difficult for users to keep the facilities locked and hence, ensure the latrines stay clean. They are also prone to damage and the plastic is frequently stolen.. Other types of superstructures (other materials) are complicated to put up quickly in difficult soil/environmental conditions, and they often fail, especially in windy conditions. 

Superstructure kit

The first latrine superstructure designs using more robust materials were made in cooperation with University of Northumbria over the past year. Following this, Oxfam in conjunction with three suppliers/manufacturers developed a range of models and prototypes for an emergency latrine superstructure kit.

The kit is for use in public pit or trench latrines during the first phase of an emergency. The kit allows rapid construction of latrines, enough time to bridge the gap between organising local procurement of materials and the actual construction.

The kit is to be used in conjunction with the self-supporting plastic squatting slab (Oxfam slab LOP/1 and LOPN/2 - dimensions 1.2m x 0.8m), and provides a superstructure for a block of two latrine stance/cubicles. The superstructure is suitable in first phase emergencies, for communal latrines, health centres feeding centres, schools etc.

Superstructure design criteria

The superstructure designs were based on the challenges of ensuring safe and proper excreta disposal in the field, and taking into consideration social issues related to excreta disposal. To tackle all the issues associated with the use of plastic sheeting/tarpaulin for emergency latrines, and to ensure the dignity of people affected by emergencies, Oxfam set criteria for the development of a new kit.  The superstructure prototypes have been designed to conform to the following criteria:

1. The superstructure kit to cover a block of two latrine cubicles but should also be easily linked on the sides to form four or more cubicles in a row as may be required.
2. The kit should be light so that it is easy to handle and to be carried manually in the field and this would also reduce flight/ transportation costs.
3. Be relatively cheap and affordable so that cost does not hinder access to proper excreta disposal in emergencies.
4. Be durable and stable enough to last in hot sunny conditions plus windy, sandy and rainy environments for at least six months.
5. Optional roof so that where culturally required/acceptable, a roof can be installed and where not required, the structure can still stand.
6. Rip proof and opaque (not translucent) to promote privacy.
7. Closable and a lockable door or flap for privacy.
8. Easy to clean material, quick to put up, dismantle and flat packed (IKEA approach).

Latrine models and prototypes

Three models and prototypes are under development by different suppliers and two of the models have changed substantially after discussions between Oxfam Advisers and the suppliers.

Models under development are made by Strong’s Plastic Products Ltd, a UK based firm that has used thin plastic sheets for the superstructure, AirCell Structures LTD, another UK based firm that used recycled corrugated plastics and N.N NAG LTD an Indian firm that supplies self-supporting slabs and has used thin metal.

Development of prototypes from the two UK firms is at an advanced stage and development of the prototype by the Indian firm is in progress.

Field trials

A substantial number of prototypes will be sent to different locations within Oxfam’s humanitarian response programmes for field trials before the end of this year. Adjustments will be made as required and the choice of the superstructure kit to be stocked by Oxfam for future use in first phase emergencies will depend on the outcome of the field trials.

Summary

As there may not be one solution for all requirements, the choice of the latrine superstructure will depend on user preferences and the criteria set above will also be used to compare the different prototypes. Price and weight/volume or cost effectiveness versus user’s preferences might be discussion point.

Discussion

What is your opinion about the designs and prototypes?

Please contact:

Daudi Bikaba
Public Health Engineering Adviser
Oxfam GB
Oxford, UK
Email: dbikaba@oxfam.org.uk