Sanitech has developed a new sanitation prototype designed for the demanding conditions in South Africa’s mining environments, where sanitation is often a major logistical challenge.

Many existing sanitation systems rely on manual extraction and transport using already limited underground infrastructure.

The new solution, developed in-house, treats waste at the point of use, reducing operational pressures, while improving hygiene and supporting worker dignity underground, and ultimately, reducing the volume of waste that needs to be removed from site.

“The biggest operational challenge underground is not the cleaning of facilities, but the physical removal of waste. Waste often has to be carried by hand or transported using cages or operational equipment that is already under pressure,” explains Sanitech MD Robert Erasmus.

Unlike conventional holding-tank systems, the new unit integrates a compact waste- water treatment process within a single cubicle, which allows waste to be treated where it is generated, significantly reducing the need for manual handling and transport.

“The concept is essentially a mini wastewater treatment plant built into the toilet unit. Instead of simply storing waste for removal, we are processing it at source to limit what needs to be extracted,” says Erasmus.

The prototype fits underground dimensional constraints and supports typical use levels in mining operations.

It is designed for about 30 users a day, with treated water reused for flushing, and the treatment process ensuring the water meets general discharge standards, while a portion is safely recycled within the system.

“Water reuse is a key sustainability benefit of the design. We expect to reuse up to 70% to 75% of the water within the unit. This reduces freshwater demand and limits the volume of waste that needs to be removed,” adds Sanitech water and waste treatment solutions divisional manager Paul de Klerk.

The unit uses membrane bioreactor technology, combining biological treatment, ultrafiltration and UV disinfection to produce high-quality effluent.

The plant is controlled through a programmable logic controller and can be monitored remotely.

“If there is a blockage, pump failure or performance issue, operators receive alerts, improving reliability and maintenance response.”

Erasmus says the solution also improves working conditions for both users and service teams.

“Improved sanitation is directly linked to workforce health and wellbeing, but it’s also about dignity and safety. By reducing manual waste handling and providing enclosed facilities with handwashing capability, we are creating a safer and more hygienic environment for mine workers.”

The unit is being launched as a prototype, with Sanitech inviting mining companies to participate in field testing and collaborative development.