An Ergonomic Approach to Designing an Iranian-Islamic Toilet in a Sample of Iranian Society

Two toilets in sitting-type and squatting-type (Traditional) are currently used by Iranian People. Since each of these two types has its own disadvantages and merits, this research aims to design a squatting-type toilet based on ergonomic principles to eliminate its disadvantages.

61 subjects (29 males and 32 females) aged 19-60 years were enrolled in this study. Seven anthropometric characteristics were measured using a tape measure with an accuracy of one millimeter in these subjects. A questionnaire containing 4 questions was given to them. Each person was squatting for 2 minutes on different slopes from 0 to 20 degrees. Assessment of Localized Postural Discomfort (LPD) by asking people at 3 points of body, at different slopes, and goniometry in the areas of (A), (B) ,(C) and (D) was also performed.

Based on the anthropometric characteristics of the individuals, LPD and goniometry findings in different areas of the body and dimensions of toilet in the sole position, length 32.33 and width 12.74 cm was obtained. The angle between the soles of the feet was 23.33 degrees and the required slope of the soles was 12 degrees.

The findings of this study suggest that modification of the sole position in squatting-type toilet and its sloping design can be effective in making users comfortable. Given the small number of studies on this type of toilet, further studies in this area, including research on specific populations such as the disabled people, children, pregnant women, the elderly, etc., are necessary.