Depending on the region, the term "pit latrine" may be used to denote a toilet that has a squatting pan with a water seal or … See more

The user positions themself over the small drop hole during use. The size of the feces drop hole in the floor or slab should not be larger than 25 cm (10 in) to prevent children falling in. Light should be prevented from entering th… See more

Pit latrines collect human feces in a hole in the ground. The principle of a pit latrine is that all liquids that enter the pit – in particular urine and water used for anal cleansing – seep into the ground (the only exception a… See more

The requirements for safe pit emptying and fecal sludge management are often forgotten by those building pit latrines, as the pit will only fill up in a few years time. However, in many developing countries safe fecal s… See more

Advantages of pit latrines may include:
• Can be built and repaired with locally available materials
• Low (but variable) capital costs depending on materials and pit depth… See more

Disadvantages of pit latrines may include:
• Flies and odours are normally noticeable to the users
• The toilet has to be outdoors with the associated security risks if the person is living in an insecure situation… See more