FEATURES 15
Image supplied by Steve Van Zyl
An illegal ventilation installation. particularly when it comes to plumbing system design.
According to South Africa’ s National Building Regulations, SANS 10400, a competent person is someone registered under the Architectural Profession Act, the Engineering Profession Act, or similar legislation. These professionals – architects and engineers – are legally authorised to design plumbing and drainage systems.
The qualified plumber’ s responsibility is to carry out the installation according to the approved design. They are not permitted to design the system themselves. This distinction is critical because the regulations require that the competent person:
• Prepares and submits a rational design or assessment to the local authority.
• Inspects and certifies the completed installation.
• Issues a certificate confirming compliance with all relevant standards and regulations. ground. In the pit, excreta decomposes into humus-like solids, water and gasses. The important point is that because of the long storage time in the pit, disease-causing organisms are eventually killed. Permission of the local authority must be obtained before constructing the VIP latrine( SA Plumbers Handbook, 2013). PA
References: |
1. |
Gerrie Botha( IOPSA) |
2. |
Steve van Zyl( IOPSA) |
3. |
Duncan Keil( UPP) |
4. |
Patrick Gordon( Splashworks) |
5. |
SA Plumbers Handbook 2013, compiled by Mervyn Jordan |
SA Plumbers Handbook
Ventilated improved pit( VIP) latrine The VIP latrine introduced in Africa in the 1970s is widely used in developing countries, especially in water-short regions.
It is solidly constructed and, if properly used and maintained, hygienic and odourless. Pit latrines are not used in conjunction with conventional flush toilets. Only a small amount of water enters the pit and liquid is allowed to seep from the pit into the surrounding
Schematic diagram of a ventilated improved pit latrine.
October 2025 Volume 31 I Number 08 www. plumbingafrica. co. za