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Abstract
Ultraviolet germicidal (short wavelength UV-C) light was studied as surface disinfectant in an Emergency Sanitation Operation System® smart toilet to aid to the work of manual cleaning. The UV-C light was installed and regulated as a self-cleaning feature of the toilet, which automatically irradiate after each toilet use. Two experimental phases were conducted i.e. preparatory phase consists of tests under laboratory conditions and field testing phase. The laboratory UV test indicated that irradiation for 10 min with medium–low intensity of 0.15–0.4 W/m2 could achieve 6.5 log removal of Escherichia coli. Field testing of the toilet under real usage found that UV-C irradiation was capable to inactivate total coliform at toilet surfaces within 167-cm distance from the UV-C lamp (UV-C dose between 1.88 and 2.74 mW). UV-C irradiation is most effective with the support of effective manual cleaning. Application of UV-C for surface disinfection in emergency toilets could potentially reduce public health risks.
Acknowledgements
This work is funded under the project ‘Stimulating local innovation on sanitation for the urban poor in sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia’ financed by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (OPP1029019) and the field research was funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB) through its scheme titled ‘Knowledge and Innovation Support for ADB’s Water Financing Program’ (RET 6498). The field research would not have been possible without assistance and support of Samaritan Purse Philippines and the community of Abucay Bunkhouse, Tacloban City, Philippines.