Tools for easier pit emptying

Ventilated improved pit (VIP) toilets are an appropriate basic form of sanitation serving millions of South Africans. However, the emptying of these pits when full is problematic, mainly due to space constraints and potential risks to people’s health and the environment. The WRC’s quest to find solutions for the safe and efficient removal of sludge from full VIPs prompted research into the development of a small vacuum pump, which can be coupled to a separate tank. “The ‘Nanovac’ can be carried to places which other technologies cannot access” says Jay Bhagwan who managed the development of the technology. Other innovations include the use of developed tanks such as a modified version of the ‘Hippo roller’, which incorporates a handle and can be rolled from the vicinity of the pit being emptied to a transfer tank or a transporting vehicle. Another WRC-funded study looked at the use of a motorised auger which extracts material from pits. Dubbed the ‘Gobbler’, this is a chain-based system.

 For more information

 Mr Jay Bhagwan

 Director Water Use and Waste Management

 Tel: 102 330 9042

  jayb@wrc.org.za