Safe Human Waste Practices

Toilets come in all shapes and sizes; some may just be a hole in the ground. Regardless of what type we use, it’s important to keep ourselves clean by using safe human waste practices. If we don’t, we might get sick. President Gordon B. Hickley taught, “‘Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord’ (Doctrine and Covenants 133:5). Thus has He spoken to us in modern revelation. Be clean in body. Be clean in mind. Be clean in language. Be clean in dress and manner.”¹

What are safe human waste practices?

Safe human waste practices are ways that we can properly manage waste disposal in a sanitized way. This includes using toilets and latrines when possible, cleaning those toilets and latrines regularly, and washing our hands afterwards.

How does human waste relate to child nutrition?

Unsafe disposal of human waste can cause illness. It can lead to bacteria, parasites, and viruses that cause diarrhea and other diseases. Diarrhea can cause loss of bodily fluids, severe dehydration, and, in some severe cases, death. Recurring diarrhea can reduce a child’s growth and brain development, making them vulnerable to other diseases. If we can teach and help children use safe human waste practices, we can lower the chances of malnutrition caused by illnesses from unclean waste management practices.

What can I do to properly dispose of human waste?

Safe human waste disposal may differ depending on your situation. When possible, use a toilet or latrine. This helps keep us clean and keeps feces out of our drinking water. The toilets and latrines should also be cleaned regularly to eliminate bacterial growth. If you do not have access to a latrine or toilet, be sure to defecate at least 30 meters away from any sources of water, bury the feces, and use cleaning supplies.

After disposing of human waste safely, it is important to always follow with proper handwashing or sanitation to reduce the spread of disease. Wash your hands with soap and clean water or hand sanitizer. Parents should wash their hands after helping their children use the toilet or cleaning their children’s bottoms. Parents should also teach their children the importance of sanitation after using the toilet.

How can I help others to follow safe human waste practices?

As a leader or member of the Church, there are some things you can do to help families in your community to follow safe human waste management practices. Prayerfully consider who in your area might be affected by unsafe human waste practices and what Church, government, and nonprofit resources are available to help improve human waste safety. Do women and girls in your area have appropriate access to supplies to manage menstruation? Address any immediate needs you see in your area and look for long-term solutions.

Also, consider what are the best ways to teach families about the importance of safe human waste practices. For example, you could hold Relief Society, quorum, or class activities where you share practice methods for staying clean when using a toilet or latrine. Mothers and Relief Society members can also help young women learn how to manage their periods at school and home in safe and healthy ways.

As a ministering brother or sister, you can help those you serve to follow safe waste disposal practices. If you recognize a home in your community that shows signs of unsafe human waste practices, counsel with the family about ways to improve their situation. Be understanding and not judgmental. Listen to understand the challenges the parents might be facing, and if needed, counsel with a Church leader about ways you can help.

References

1. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Be Ye Clean,” General Conference, April 1996.