While RADG
was initially dedicated to the research and development of a number
of discrete technologies it became apparent that if several of these
were merged into one - the Remote Area Hygiene Facility (RAHF) - a
more holistic vehicle existed for their promotion and transfer to Aboriginal
communities. The aim of developing the RAHF was to provide a new, low-cost
option for remote communities that were seeking ablutions facilities
with participation in their construction and ongoing design development.
The RAHF was an ablutions block that included the pour-flush toilet,
a chipheater as preheater to the plastic solar water heater, a laundry
and the evapotranspiration (ET) trench. It included the hand-operated
washing machine and chipheater by CAT. Structurally, the building used
50 x 50 mm steel square hollow section (SHS). The steel frames themselves
were 2 metre x 2 metre modules allowing several variations of the layout
and orientation. A SHS, waist height, bench jig was made for the workshop
situation for ease of fabrication of the frames in the field with electric
arc welding where electrical power was available.
Fixing together
the steel frames, attachment of cladding and roofing was by means of
tek gun and screws. This was possible with hand tools only, i.e. a
brace to drill holes, bolts and heavy duty pop rivets. However, in
most situations electrical power or a portable generator was available.
The skills associated with working with steel are commonplace in many
communities as a result of past experience in the pastoral industry
and being largely self-reliant with motor cars. The 100 mm concrete
slab was poured into prefabricated, C-purlin formwork set in place
with the correct gradients for drainage. The washing line could be
quite reliably used as a children's swing and a vehicle engine hoist.
RAHFs were installed in town camps at Kalgoorlie, Halls Creek and Port
Hedland and were manufactured by the Remote Area Technology Centre
at Pundulmurra College in South Hedland.
