Sanitation glossary

Access to sanitation The share of the population with excreta disposal facilities which effectively prevent human, animal, and insect contact with excreta. Suitable facilities range from simple but protected pit latrines, to flush toilets with sewerage. To be effective, all facilities must be correctly constructed and maintained. Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) A program which mobilises communities to completely eliminate open defecation. It is characterised by an able facilitator and community analysis and commitment to building and using toilets of the whole community Composting toilet A toilet which uses micro-organisms to break down waste into an organic compost. It may be assisted by using a system of fans to speed up the process. Diarrhoea Frequent and watery bowel movements. It can be a symptom of infection or food poisoning. Excreta Waste matter such as urine or faeces Faeces Solid body waste matter   Pit latrine A lined hole covered with a squat slab usually surrounded by a simple shelter Septic A small scale sewage treatment system common in areas with no connection to main sewerage pipes. Anaerobic bacterial activity decomposes or mineralises the waste discharged into the tank. Sewer Drains or pipes to carry away surface water or sewage to be treated so that it is not toxic Sewage The liquid waste matter from toilets, bathrooms, kitchens and laundries as well as industry Toilet Also known as lavatory, water closet (WC), or loo, it is a facility for disposal of the bodily wastes, urine and faeces. The word ‘toilet’ can be used to refer to the facility itself or to the room containing it. Ventilated Improved Pit latrine (VIP) Is a pit toilet with a vent pipe fitted to the pit and a screen at the top outlet of the pipe. The smell is carried upwards by the chimney effect and flies are prevented from leaving the pit and spreading disease. Wat San A group of people who take responsibility for the water and sanitation of an area