Going to the toilet

Adapting infrastructure to suit disabled people need not be an expensive exercise. Often, it only requires minor adjustments, using locally-available materials.

In terms ofwater and sanitation for instance, measures could be as simple as introducingmarkers for blind people to indicate the way to a water source or toilet, andmaking the paths to these facilities smooth and clear of any obstacles. Or,when installing a water pump, contractors should ensure that the taps andhandles are long enough, so that a disabled person can pump water from the edgeof the apron (the area of concrete around the pump) and avoid the slippery surface.

Even withmore complicated construction, simple guidelines may be followed that wouldensure that they are accessible for all to use. A good example is accessibletoilets. Some typical concerns and features to address these are outlined below:

Concern: Accessto the latrine

Accessible features:

• a concrete or earth ramp that finishes level to the latrine floor, with amaximum gradient of 1:12. Steps should have a handrail forsupport
• a door with a clear opening of at least 0.8 metres, that swings outwardsto maximise the space within (with a doorstop to prevent it opening more than90 degrees and a rope or rail on the inside).

Concern: Manoeuvrability

• clearfloor space (minimum 1.75 x 1.55 metres) to allow moving about with wheelchairsor helpers
• rough cement flooring, that does not become slippery when wet, especially forpeople using crutches.

Concern: Supportwhilst using the facility

Accessible feature:

• handrailsincluding: horizontal or diagonal rails attached to the wall on either side ofthe toilet, or fixed to the floor (if iron, should be painted to avoid corrosion)
• to avoid squatting, either a fixed seat or moveable seat placed over thetoilet hole made of concrete, wood, bamboo or plastic etc. Wood and concreteshould be painted for improved moisture resistance and hygiene.

Concern:Private hygiene

Accessible features:

• source of water inside the latrine cubicle.