3-5.
URINAL FACILITIES USED IN NORMAL WATER TABLE AREAS
In permanent and semipermanent camps, urine disposal facilities are usually
connected into the wastewater collection system. In the field, separate devices for the
disposal of urine may be necessary. Such facilities should be collocated in the male
latrines to minimize fouling of seats. One urine disposal facility (more if needed) is
required for each male latrine facility.
a. Urine Soakage Pit. The best device for urine disposal in the field is the urine
soakage pit. However, for this disposal to function properly, soldiers must not urinate
on the surface of the pit but into the extended pipes, funnels, etc.
(1) Construction. The pit is dug 4 feet square and 4 feet deep. It is then
filled with rocks, flattened tin cans, broken bottles, or other coarse, contact material. A
border 8 inches wide and 4 inches deep composed of small stones or similar material is
laid along each edge of the pit such that each side of the soakage surface is 5 feet in
length (see Figure 3-8). Depending on the materials available, either pipe, hose, or
trough urinals may be used with this pit. These urinals are discussed below. An
optional feature is the ventilating shafts with screened openings extending from about 6
inches above to within 6 inches of the bottom of the pit.
(2) Sanitation. Funnels or troughs must be cleaned daily with soap and
water. Replace funnels as needed. Keep oil and grease away from the pit and funnels
because they can clog them up. If the pit becomes clogged, spray it with a residual
insecticide. These sanitary procedures apply to all urinals to be discussed. When the
pit is no longer used, spray it with a residual insecticide and put a 2-foot covering of
compacted, mounded dirt over it.
b. Pipe Urinals. Pipe urinals should be at least 1 inch in diameter. They should
be placed at an angle near each corner of the pit and, if needed, on the sides halfway
between corners (see Figure 3-8). These pipes should be about 36 inches long with at
least 8 inches extending below the surface and 28 inches above the ground surface. A
funnel of tar paper, sheet metal, or similar material is placed in the top of each pipe to
make it easier to initially receive the liquid. The funnel is then covered with a screen to
prevent insects and rodents from entering the pipe.
MD0161
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