ITN-BUET has recently published a comprehensive fecal sludge testing protocol. This protocol is designed to assist laboratory personnel, researchers, sector partners, and local government institutions (LGIs) in testing various parameters essential for characterization of fecal sludge.
To achieve SDG 6.2 targets focusing fecal sludge management, the Bangladesh government has been actively supporting the construction of FSTPs in municipalities and city corporations. The Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE) has been at the forefront of these initiatives, ensuring the safe disposal and end-use of fecal sludge. The operation of FSTPs requires regular monitoring through effluent testing. However, the current laboratories in the country face challenges due to inadequate equipment and limited knowledge among technicians regarding fecal sludge testing. This pressing issue prompted ITN-BUET to develop a protocol specifically aimed at addressing these challenges.
The newly released protocol offers a step-by-step guide for analyzing various parameters related to fecal sludge. It covers aspects such as fecal sludge characterization, solid and organic content, nutrients, and pathogenic organisms.
The protocol is expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders. Government agencies, academic institutes, sector partners, and specialized laboratories can utilize the protocol to enhance their testing capabilities. By strengthening testing capabilities and expanding knowledge among laboratory personnel, the country’s FSTPs are poised to operate more efficiently, ensuring the safe disposal of fecal sludge and environmental protection.
The publication is available at https://itn.buet.ac.bd/web/resources/protocol-for-fecal-sludge-testing/
