Ventilated improved pit latrines
Practical Action
What are the problems related to the different types of latrines? – As discussed
hygiene is the biggest issue. What other problems may arise – sanitation, location,
Below are the main types of latrines:
Traditional pit latrines – Well known in Africa, Asia and Latin America. A simple pit
covered with logs. Not usually roofed, sometimes they have no walls. Cost zero, no
specialist skills
SanPlat latrines – like the traditional latrine but with a SanPlat, slightly elevated for
ease of use in the dark. Can be located close to house with fitted lid to prevent smell
and flies.
Conventional improved pit latrines – Again similar to the traditional latrine, but built
with more solid materials, i.e. bricks, with walls and a roof. Putting hot ashes in the
latrine can reduce smell and flies.
VIP latrines – Consisting or the normal pit but with a screened vent pipe fitted. Wind
ideally blows over the vent pipe.
Pour-flush latrines – Common in southern Asia. Water seal fitted to drop hole,
meaning no smell and no flies. Water is poured into the water seal to flush the toilet.
Problems could be the water supply and fitting the seal.
Compost Latrines - The idea of this is to build a permanent latrine with removable
pits, to use the contents for fertiliser. 60 litres per person per year. Shallow
excavation, but high cost, due to the double pit lining.
This technical brief concentrates on the Ventilated Improved Pit Latrine.
Construction
The VIP Latrine can be built from different materials. These should be chosen according to
availability and cost of materials, skills available, and soil type. If the soil of the ground is
very loose, it is recommended to use lighter materials for the walls. The different materials
that can be used require alternative methods of construction. In all cases, the slab is built
the same and a chimney higher than the roof is constructed.
This technical brief describes the construction of a mortared brick design because it is the
most popular. The main materials for this latrine are; sand, gravel, bricks, bags of cement,
wire mesh, chicken wire, water.
Tools needed
Tape measure, shovels, masonry trowels, wooden floats, buckets, karias, pliers,
pombo, panga or old chisel and hammer, plastic sheeting, woven plastic sugar
sacks, sisal twine, large canvas sewing needles.
Sighting
Choose firm soil with good drainage. It should be made in a convenient
location, at least 40 meters away from any springs, streams or rivers. Note the
direction of prevailing winds. Latrines should be placed downwind of the home
or school. The doorway of the VIP latrine should face the wind.
Excavation
Mark a circle in the ground using 2 sticks and a string as shown. For a family latrine, the
circle should be 1.5 metres (5 feet) across, so the string should be 75 cm long between the
2