In an emergency setting, latrines are often constructed to meet the immediate demand of the population, with limited consideration about emptying when they would fill up. It remains a problem for another day. Inevitably, the latrines quickly start to overflow because of the high number of users and need to be emptied safely- and avoid another crisis. It can be done either by employing a competent service provider or setting up the service ourselves.

In each new emergency, the de-sludging frequency can vary enormously and unexpectedly, depending on the volume capacity of the pits and of the sewer trucks available.

To avoid challenges during the emptying, transportation and disposal of fecal sludge, it’s imperative to choose a service provider or setting up the service that can safely perform these functions for specific context.

Either way, you can utilize this checklist to ensure the critical points required for safe practice.