b. Burn-Out Latrine. The burn-out latrine (figure 6-8) is particularly suitable to
jungle areas with high water tables. It has been particularly successful in some parts of
Vietnam. It should not be used, however, when air pollution regulations prohibit open
fires. For a unit of 100 men, at least eight latrines are needed.
(1) Construction. A 55-gallon drum is placed into the ground, leaving
enough of the drum above the ground for a comfortable sitting height. The drum may
be cut in half, thus making two latrines of less capacity.
(a) A wooden seat with a fly-proof, self-closing lid is placed on top of
the drum.
(b) If the drum must be moved to another site before the contents are
burned out, handles should be welded to the sides to make it possible for two men to
carry the drum with ease.
(c) It is convenient to have two sets of drums--one set for use, while
the other set is being burned clean.
Figure 6-8. Burn-out latrine.
(2) Operation. The burn-out latrine should be burned out daily by adding
sufficient fuel to incinerate the fecal matter.
MD0008
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