6-10. STRADDLE TRENCH LATRINES
A straddle trench latrine is dug 1 foot wide, 2-1/2 feet deep, and 4 feet long. This
will accommodate two men at the same time. The number of trenches provided should
be sufficient to serve at least 4 percent of the male population and 6 percent of the
female population at one time. Thus, for a unit of 100 men, at least 16 feet of trench or
four 4-foot straddle trench latrines are needed (figure 6-5). The trenches should be at
least two feet apart. There are no seats in this type of latrine, but boards may be placed
along both sides of the trench to provide better footing. Toilet paper should be placed
on suitable holders and protected from bad weather by a tin can or other covering. The
earth removed in digging is piled at the end of the trenches and a shovel or paddle is
provided. This is done so that each man can properly cover his excreta and toilet
paper. When the unit leaves the area or when the straddle trenches are filled to within
one foot of the surface, the trenches should be closed in the manner described in
paragraph 6-9e.
Figure 6-5. Straddle trench latrines for 100 men with screen and handwashing device.
6-11. DEEP PIT LATRINES
The deep pit latrine is used with a latrine box placed over it. The standard type
box provides four seats and is 8 feet long and 2-1/2 wide at the base. A unit of 100 men
requires 8 feet of latrine space or a 4-seat latrine box (figure 6-7). The hole should be
covered with fly-proof, self-closing lids. All cracks should be fly-proofed with strips of
wood or tin nailed over them. A metal deflector should be placed inside the front of the
box to prevent urine from soaking into the wood. The deflector may be made with
flattened cans.
MD0008
6-13