This code specifies the guidelines for the location, design, construction, and maintenance of leaching pits for on-site sanitation systems in rural areas. It focuses on ensuring safe disposal of human waste without contaminating groundwater, detailing methods like percolation tests to determine soil suitability and formulas to size pits based on user numbers.
Code of practice for sanitation with leaching pits for rural community
Quick Reference Values
min distance from water source15 m
min distance from building foundation1.5 m
unsuitable soil percolation rate> 30 min/cm
minimum design desludging period3 years
soakage trench width0.5 to 1.0 m
soakage trench depth1.0 to 1.5 m
Key Formulas
Soakage Area A = Q / q (where A is effective side wall area, Q is quantity of effluent, q is rate of percolation)
Practical Notes
The percolation test is the most critical step for design; ensure it is conducted during the dry season for conservative results.
Strictly maintain the minimum distance from any drinking water source (wells, borewells) as specified in Clause 4 to prevent catastrophic health hazards.
Promoting twin-pit systems is a best practice, as it allows for safer and easier emptying after a resting period.