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An improved tool for household faeces management in rural Bangladeshi communities
Author(s) -
Sultana Rebeca,
Mondal Utpal K.,
Rimi Nadia Ali,
Unicomb Leanne,
Winch Peter J.,
Nahar Nazmun,
Luby Stephen P.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
tropical medicine and international health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 114
eISSN - 1365-3156
pISSN - 1360-2276
DOI - 10.1111/tmi.12103
Subject(s) - sanitation , digging , feces , latrine , defecation , environmental health , geography , socioeconomics , medicine , engineering , environmental engineering , sociology , ecology , surgery , biology , archaeology
Objective To explore child defecation and faeces management practices in rural Bangladesh with the aim to redesign and pilot a tool to facilitate removal and disposal of faeces. Methods We conducted six group discussions, six short interviews and three observations of practices and designed the new tool. We piloted the new tool and elicited feedback through two in‐depth interviews and two observations. Results Until three years of age, a child commonly defecates in the courtyard and occasionally inside the house. A heavy digging hoe was commonly used to remove child faeces. Mothers preferred a redesigned ‘mini‐hoe’ and found it easier to use for removal and disposal of liquid faeces. Conclusions Promoting modified local tools may contribute to improving environmental sanitation and health.