Excreta Disposal in Emergencies: A Field Manual

Oxfam, IFRC, UNHCR, UNICEF and WEDC have previously collaborated on several research projects and share a common desire to create and capture know ledge to produce information resources that can be shared by different implementing agencies and that promote consistent good field practice.

This manual is a result of this shared goal and is designed for use by field-based technicians, engineers and non-technical staff responsible for sanitation planning, management and intervention in emergencies. This may include international personnel sent to an emergency, local, national and regional staff.

The purpose of the manual is to provide practical guidance on how to select, design, construct and maintain appropriate excreta disposal systems in emergency situations. Relevant situations include natural disasters, relief for refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and complex emergencies, focusing on rural and peri-urban areas. The manual presents a process, which can be followed to assess the current excreta disposal needs and priorities, and to design an appropriate programme to respond to those needs. It can also be used to select appropriate excreta disposal technologies, systems, and hygiene promotion interventions. The manual provides guidance on how to plan, design and construct systems, and how to maintain and promote appropriate use of those systems.