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'''The Single Pit is one of the most widely used sanitation technologies. Excreta, along with anal cleansing materials (water or solids) are deposited into a pit. Lining the pit prevents it from collapsing and provides support to the superstructure.'''
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===Adequacy===
Treatment processes in the Single Pit (aerobic, anaerobic, dehydration, composting or otherwise) are limited and therefore, pathogen reduction and organic degradation is not significant. However, since the excreta are contained, pathogen transmission to the user is limited. Single Pits are appropriate for rural and peri-urban areas; Single Pits in urban or dense areas are often difficult to empty and/or have sufficient space for infiltration. Single Pits are especially appropriate when water is scarce and where there is a low groundwater table. They are not suited for rocky or compacted soils (that are difficult to dig) or for areas that flood frequently.
===Health Aspects/Acceptance===
A simple Single Pit is an improvement to open defecation; however, it still poses health risks:
Single Pits should be constructed at an appropriate distance from homes to minimize fly and odour nuisances and to ensure convenience and safe travel.
===Upgrading===
A [[Single Ventilated Improved Pit|Ventilated Improved Pit (VIP)]] is slightly more expensive but greatly reduces the nuisance of flies and odours, while increasing comfort and usability. For more information on the VIP please refer to the [[Single Ventilated Improved Pit|Single Pit VIP]] page. When two pits are dug side-by-side, one can be used while the contents of the other pit are allowed to mature for safer emptying. For more information on dual pit technologies refer to [[Double Ventilated Improved Pit|Double Pit VIP]] and [[Twin Pits for Pour Flush]] pages.
===Maintenance===
There is no daily maintenance associated with a simple Single Pit. However, when the pit is full it can be a) pumped out and reused or b) the superstructure and squatting plate can be moved to a new pit and the previous pit covered and decommissioned.
===Field experiences===
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|[[Image:rsr 476.jpg|thumb|none|200px|<font size="2"><center>Project 476</center></font>|link=http://www.akvo.org/rsr/project/476/]]
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===References ===
* Brandberg, B. (1997). Latrine Building. A Handbook for Implementation of the Sanplat System. Intermediate Technology Publications, London. (A good summary of common construction problems and how to avoid mistakes.)
* Pickford, J. (1995). Low Cost Sanitation. A Survey of Practical Experience. Intermediate Technology Publications, London. (Information on how to calculate pit size and technology life.)
===Acknowledgements===
{{:Acknowledgements Sanitation}}
