Papers by Johnson Oluremi
International Journal of Engineering Research in Africa, 2016
One of the many challenges faced in developing world is the issue of waste management. Organic fi... more One of the many challenges faced in developing world is the issue of waste management. Organic fibres forms major percentage of waste produced from agricultural products and should be of great concern. Fibres have been used to reinforce composites concrete to obtain lighter weight, reduce shrinkage effects which serve to reduce environmental waste. Natural fibre is 100% bio-degradable and recyclable, thereby eliminate pollution, promote biodiversity and conservation of natural resources and thus environmentally friendly.This paper focuses on utilization of some fibres as solid wastes for making economically-friendly and affordable green environment. Three fibres: Jute, Oil palm and Polypropylene fibres were used as complement in concrete and its suitability, durability and influence on the properties of concrete were assessed. The percentages of fibre used were 0.25 and 0.5 of cement content by weight. A total of 84 concrete cube specimens were prepared for standard tests which incl...
Subsurface and ground water contamination with chemicals from industrial and agricultural sources... more Subsurface and ground water contamination with chemicals from industrial and agricultural sources poses environmental problems. Apart from constituting health risk to both human and animals (terrestrial and aquatic), it is a source of deterioration to physical, chemical and geotechnical properties of the soil. The reuse of contaminated soil as civil engineering materials is seeing as one of the effective alternative methods of disposing contaminated soil. However, this is subject to either the containment of the agent of contamination in soil or effective remediation of the contaminated soil. The geomechanic and geotechnical behaviour of oil contaminated soil is therefore reviewed to ascertain their potential reuse as engineering material. This is explored in relation to the current state of oil contamination in Nigeria. It is was reported that there was reduction in shear strength and stress-strain behaviour of low plastic and high plastic clays, significant reduction in permeabili...
Oil spillage during transportation, leakages of underground tanks in fuel stations as well as an ... more Oil spillage during transportation, leakages of underground tanks in fuel stations as well as an indiscriminate spill of spent oil in motor mechanic workshops has increasingly become very prevalent in Nigeria. This study examined the effect of oil contamination on the strength properties of lateritic soil. Crude oil was simulated by rigorously mixing engine oil, diesel, kerosene and gasoline (petrol) together in ratio 1:1:1:1. Lateritic soil samples were artificially contaminated with the simulated crude oil in the range 0% to 8% of the dry weight of soils in a step concentration of 2% and subjected to basic geotechnical laboratory tests using British Standard light (BSL) and West African Standard (WAS) compactive efforts. The results show a gradual increase in the proportion of gravelly formed particles while sand and silt contents decrease with increase in oil content. The plastic and liquid limits of the soils decreased as the crude oil content increased. The maximum dry densities (MDD) decreased from 1.06 to 1.03 mg/m 3 and 1.12 to 1.04 mg/m 3 , while optimum moisture content (OMC) increased from 13.12 to 14.8% and 11.8 to 13.3% for both BS and WAS compactive efforts respectively as oil content increased. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of samples for both BS and WAS compactive efforts were 239.6 kN/m 2 and 253.8 kN/m 2 respectively and increased with oil content up to 2% and thereafter decreased with further contamination. A significant influence of oil contamination on the engineering properties of soils is evident, and remediation and reuse of contaminated soil are imperative.
Laboratory compaction tests were conducted to investigate the effect of reusing samples of later... more Laboratory compaction tests were conducted to investigate the effect of reusing samples of lateritic gravel soils in the determination of soil compaction characteristics. Twelve soil samples obtained from a large borrow pit located along Damagun-Potiskum road in Yobe state were subjected to compaction process using British standard light (BSL) compaction, West African standard (WAS) compaction and British standard heavy (BSH) compaction. Initial identification and classification tests revealed that fifty percent of the soils are A-4 soils, twenty five percent of the soils are A-2-4 soils based on AASHTO classification system. Others are either A-5(two) or A-1-b (one) soils. In general, maximum dry densities (MDDs) from reused sample compaction were higher than those obtained from the fresh sample compaction. No general trend was established for differences in optimum moisture content (OMC) values when either re-used sample or fresh sample compaction was employed. In general, MDD increased with gravel content while OMC decreases. Statistical analysis using t-test on MDD values shows higher values of mean and variance for sample re-use compaction than fresh sample compaction, The two – way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of MDDs, OMCs and compactive effort results for sample re-use and fresh sample compactions l were statistically significant with the effect of compactive effort being more pronounced than the MDDs and OMCs. Regression analysis carried out shows that gravel content; specific gravity and compactive effort have significant effect on the maximum dry densities of the soil samples.
Based on the results obtained, although all the soil samples could be used as subgrade material, Sample 4 with up to 70% gravely materials was considered the best as subgrade material for road construction purposes.
Retaining walls are engineering structures constructed to resist lateral forces imposed by soil m... more Retaining walls are engineering structures constructed to resist lateral forces imposed by soil movement and water pressure; they are used as protection against the erosive forces of water and as a method of slope stabilization along highways, railroads and construction sites. This Study modeled the combined effects of soil, Surcharge loads and Hydrostatic pressure on the structural behaviours of cantilever retaining wall under varying geometric conditions. The limit state requirements for overturning, sliding and bearing pressure were studied under different geometric properties. The use of computer programming (Java) was employed for quick analyses of the conditions. This research therefore minimized the stress associated with the iterative process of design and analyses of these structures. The deductions gave range of satisfactory dimensions with respect to the height of the wall for the preliminary dimensioning state of design. This study also answered the remained unanswered question of the effects of an increasing load being supported by retaining wall. The results revealed that Cantilever retaining wall will perform satisfactorily based on the factors of safety of 5. 1 and 0. 2 as against sliding and overturning respectively if soil is ignored in front of the wall with following values of Base width: For wall supporting full submerged soil, the Base width,) 005. 0 25. 1 (q B ; wall supporting submerge soil up to 0.6 of its Height, Base width,) 00805. 0 881. 0 (q B and for wall with submerge soil up to 0.2 of wall height, Base width,) 0091. 0 7093. 0 ( B. Results also showed that safety factors against sliding and overturning increase at a decreasing rate with constant decrease in water level. This gives an indication that water level greatly affects the stability of the retaining wall, that is, the higher the water level the greater the sliding and overturning effects. Results also revealed that sliding safety factor increases constantly with Base width while factor of safety against overturning increases at an increasing rate. This also shows the severity of sliding as against overturning. Both safety factors also increase at a decreasing rate with Wall height giving an indication that the stability of cantilever retaining wall increases with its Height under the same load. For an increasing surcharge values, sliding safety factor decreases constantly while overturning decreases at a decreasing rate. This also explains why overturning is less critical as compared to sliding effect.
Journal of Environmental Engineering and Landscape Management, 2011
Wastewater from infected leprosy patients is expected to contain considerably higher concentratio... more Wastewater from infected leprosy patients is expected to contain considerably higher concentrations of pathogens than standard domestic wastewater and, therefore, is more infectious. Isolation of lepers' is thought to prevent the spread of a wide range of infectious diseases that could potentially be contacted through direct or indirect exposure from an infected person's wastewater in the surrounding environment. However, inappropriate management of wastewater and sewage from these camps has led to contamination of the surrounding environment, typical in Nigeria. This study aims to recommend safe, efficient and sustainable management of wastewater and sewage in a lepers' colony in Ogbomosho, south west Nigeria. The case study is privately owned, with three camps and a leprosarium. Information and data (primary and secondary) were collected from medical personnel (doctors, matrons and nurses), management staff and lepers in each camp, through handdelivered and orally explained questionnaires and physical observations. Wastewater samples could not be collected for analysis because there were no septic tanks or drainage for sewage and wastewater disposal. Two of the camps have no sanitary disposal system, with the remaining camp occupying one pit latrine, which is inadequate in prevention of environmental pollution. The leprosarium itself uses the pit latrine as an improvised bathroom and for defecation. Therefore, a further aim of this work is to provide a sewage treatment facility to cope with the problem of unsanitary disposal of excreta. The majority of wastewater is generated from bathing, personal washing, ward clean-ups, patients' services and general house-keeping activities. The approximate quantity of water being used per head per day was found to be 64-79 litres, resulting in 60 litres of wastewater that was discharged without treatment. To ameliorate environmental risks that leper colonies are responsible for, the pour-flush toilet was recommended based on its suitability for the physical condition of lepers, its ease of operation, maintenance and sustainability, minimum water usage for flushing and low construction costs. However, this must be fed into a well designed and sited septic tank and soak-away pit to receive foul sewage and sullage, respectively. Ideally, construction of a proper in-built bathroom is recommended for both the leprosarium and camps.Manoma, kad raupsais užsikrėtusių pacientų naudoto vandens nuotekose gali būti padidėjusi patogeninių organizmų koncentracija, palyginti su nuotekomis iš gyvenamųjų namų. Manyta, kad raupsuotųjų izoliavimas sulaikys šios infekcinės ligos plitimą didesniu mastu, nes mažiau infekuotųjų nuotekų pateks į aplinką. Vis dėlto netinkamas nuotekų tvarkymas Nigerijoje lėmė stovyklas supančios aplinkos užteršimą. Darbo tikslas–pateikti rekomendacijų, kaip saugiau, efektyviau ir tvariau sutvarkyti nuotekų valymo sistemą Ogbomosho kolonijoje pietvakarių Nigerijoje. Teikiant rekomendacijas remtasi trijų privačioje teritorijoje esančių stovyklų ir leprozoriumo pavyzdžiu. Kiekvienoje stovykloje informacija ir duomenys (pirminiai ir antriniai) buvo surinkti iš medicinos sektoriaus personalo (gydytojų, seselių), administracijos ir raupsais užsikrėtusių žmonių užpildytų anketų ar apklausus žodžiu bei apžiūrėjus fiziškai. Nuotekų mėginiai negalėjo būti paimti, nes nebuvo surinkimo tankų ar nuotekų kanalizacijos sistemos. Dvi stovyklos neturi sanitarinės šalinimo sistemos, trečioji stovykla turi vieną iškastą duobę. Tai visiškai neatitinka aplinkosauginių reikalavimų. Pačiame leprozoriume iškastos duobės naudojamos kaip improvizuoti vonios kambariai ir tualetai. Tolesnis šio darbo tikslas–numatyti valymo įrenginius, kurie padėtų įveikti šias problemas. Didėlė dalis nuotekų susidaro maudymosi, skalbimo, palatų valymo, pacientų aptarnavimo ir buities darbų metu. Apytiksliai venas žmogus per dieną sunaudoja 64–79 litrus vandens, gi nesutvarkytų nuotekų išleidžiama apie 60 litrų per dieną. Dėl raupsais užsikrėtusių žmonių kylančiam pavojui aplinkai sumažinti rekomenduota naudoti vandens nuleidimo sistemą tualetuose. Vandens nuleidimo sistemos įdiegimas yra tvarus sprendimas, nes nėra brangus, o pasiekiama, kad vandens būtų sunaudojama minimaliai. Be to, nutekamasis vanduo turi būti surenkamas tam skirtuose tankuose ir duobėse. Idealiu atveju–ir leprozoriume, ir stovyklose rekomenduotina įrengti tinkamus vonios kambarius.Считается, что в сточных водах из колоний зараженных проказой людей может быть увеличена концентрация патогенных организмов по сравнению со сточными водами из жилых домов. Ранее предполагалось, что изоляция зараженных проказой людей предотвратит распространение этой инфекционной болезни в большом масштабе благодаря уменьшению возможности попадания в окружающую среду инфицированных сточных вод. Однако изза характерной для Нигерии плохой очистки сточных вод окружающая колонию среда оказалась загрязненной. В работе приводятся рекомендации, как безопаснее и эффективнее оборудовать систему очистки сточных вод в колонии Огбомошо на юго-западе Нигерии. Рекомендации приводятся на примере трех лагерей и лепрозория, находящихся на частной территории. Информация и другие данные (первичные и вторичные) в каждом лагере были получены у медицинского персонала (врачей, старших сестер и др.), администрации и зараженных проказой людей, которые опрашивались устно, осматривались физически или заполняли розданные им анкеты опроса. Образцы сточных вод не забирались, так как не существовало танков для сбора стоков или канализационной системы. В двух лагерях не было санитарной системы для удаления стоков, в третьей была выкопана одна яма, что совершенно не удовлетворяет природоохранных требований. В самом лепрозории выкопанные ямы использовались как импровизированные ванные комнаты и туалеты. Поэтому целью работы было способствовать внедрению очистных сооружений, которые могли бы решить существующую антисанитарную проблему. Большую часть сточных вод составляет вода, загрязненная во время купания, стирки, уборки палат, обслуживания пациентов и бытовых работ. Один человек за день использует приблизительно 64–79 литров воды, в то время как за день спускается около 60 литров неочищенных отходов. Для того, чтобы снизить опасность для окружающей среды от прокаженных людей, было рекомендовано использовать систему спуска воды в туалетах в зависимости от физического состояния зараженных проказой людей, что улучшило бы возможности использования воды и приведения в порядок системы стока. Внедрение системы спуска воды является наиболее приемлемым решением, так как не требует больших материальных затрат и ограничивается минимальным количеством используемой воды. Сточная вода должна собираться в предназначенных для этого танках и ямах. В идеальном случае оборудование соответствующих ванных комнат рекомендовано как для лепрозория, так и для лагерей.
International Journal of Environmental Studies, 2008
Quantities and types of solid wastes generated at Ogbomosho leprosarium (Oyo State, Nigeria) have... more Quantities and types of solid wastes generated at Ogbomosho leprosarium (Oyo State, Nigeria) have been investigated. Data collection, through waste sampling and analysis, interviews, questionnaire surveys and field observations, was conducted between August and November 2006. Results indicate a notably low mean waste generation rate of 241.5 g/h/d, which included bandages, paper, food waste, animal waste, wood ash, yard trimmings, amongst others. There is no national policy on waste handling. Domestic waste is mixed with biomedical waste without sorting. Moreover, waste‐handlers deal with waste materials by hand and without protective clothing or gloves, which needlessly exposes them to greater health risks. Similarly, primitive hygiene facilities (e.g. pit latrines, plus inadequate and intermittent water supplies) constitute a health risk to patients, staff and visitors. Recommendations include i) provision of separate waste receptacles at generation points to facilitate proper sorting and segregation; ii) adequate training and protective clothing for waste handlers; and iii) national and international action for leprosy patients housed in these ‘out of sight, out of mind’ communes.
Environmental Studies, Apr 30, 2008
Quantities and types of solid wastes generated at Ogbomosho leprosarium (Oyo State, Nigeria) have... more Quantities and types of solid wastes generated at Ogbomosho leprosarium (Oyo State, Nigeria) have
been investigated. Data collection, through waste sampling and analysis, interviews, questionnaire
surveys and field observations, was conducted between August and November 2006. Results indicate
a notably low mean waste generation rate of 241.5 g/h/d, which included bandages, paper, food waste,
animal waste, wood ash, yard trimmings, amongst others. There is no national policy on waste
handling. Domestic waste is mixed with biomedical waste without sorting. Moreover, waste-handlers
deal with waste materials by hand and without protective clothing or gloves, which needlessly exposes
them to greater health risks. Similarly, primitive hygiene facilities (e.g. pit latrines, plus inadequate
and intermittent water supplies) constitute a health risk to patients, staff and visitors. Recommendations
include i) provision of separate waste receptacles at generation points to facilitate proper sorting
and segregation; ii) adequate training and protective clothing for waste handlers; and iii) national and
international action for leprosy patients housed in these ‘out of sight, out of mind’ communes.
International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT), Oct 1, 2012
The volume of wastes generated in the world
over has increased over the years due to increase in... more The volume of wastes generated in the world
over has increased over the years due to increase in
population, socioeconomic activities and social
development. These wastes come from agricultural,
industrial, commercial as well as construction
activities. One of the most attractive options of
managing such wastes is to look into the possibility
of waste minimization and re-use. This research is
aimed at assessing the impact of coconut husk ash
(CHA) on the stabilization of poor lateritic soil
deposit found at Otu in Itesiwaju Local
Government Area in Oyo State, Southwestern
Nigeria.
In achieving this aim, Lateritic soil was
collected from Otu in Oyo State. The soil was air
dried and divided into six samples and each sample
was stabilized using 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% of
coconut ash by mass of soil sample. The samples
were subjected to the following laboratory soil
tests: particle size distribution analysis, Atterberg
limit test, compaction test, and California Bearing
Ratio in accordance with British Standard 1377
(1990) and Head (1992). Chemical composition
analysis of the coconut husk ash was done as well.
Chemical analysis of the coconut husk ash
shows that it contains 62.43%, 17.9% and 8.79% of
K2O, SiO2 and CaO respectively. The liquid limit
ranges between 58.9% and 67.2%, plastic limit
ranges between 25% and 47.14%, and plasticity
index is between 20% and 37%. The maximum dry
density ranges between 1.512 g/cm3 and 1.62 g/cm3
with their optimum water contents ranging between
13.5 and 24% while California bearing ratio
(soaked) is between 14% and 36%. Result shows
that maximum dry density of 1.62 g/cm3 with
corresponding optimum water content of 13.5%
was obtained at 4% of ash addition.
The result indicates that coconut husk ash is
suitable for improving the California bearing ratio
because this parameter increases with addition of
coconut husk ash. Addition of coconut husk ashalso increases the plastic limit but reduces the
plasticity index. Therefore, this study shows that
coconut husk ash can be effectively used to
improve lateritic soils with low CBR values but not
suitable for improving soils with high liquid limit.
Journal of Environmental Engineering and Landscape Management, Oct 21, 2011
Wastewater from infected leprosy patients is expected to contain considerably higher concentratio... more Wastewater from infected leprosy patients is expected to contain considerably higher concentrations of pathogens
than standard domestic wastewater and, therefore, is more infectious. Isolation of lepers’ is thought to prevent the
spread of a wide range of infectious diseases that could potentially be contacted through direct or indirect exposure from
an infected person’s wastewater in the surrounding environment. However, inappropriate management of wastewater and
sewage from these camps has led to contamination of the surrounding environment, typical in Nigeria. This study aims to
recommend safe, efficient and sustainable management of wastewater and sewage in a lepers’ colony in Ogbomosho,
south west Nigeria. The case study is privately owned, with three camps and a leprosarium. Information and data (primary
and secondary) were collected from medical personnel (doctors, matrons and nurses), management staff and lepers in each
camp, through hand- delivered and orally explained questionnaires and physical observations. Wastewater samples could
not be collected for analysis because there were no septic tanks or drainage for sewage and wastewater disposal. Two of
the camps have no sanitary disposal system, with the remaining camp occupying one pit latrine, which is inadequate in
prevention of environmental pollution. The leprosarium itself uses the pit latrine as an improvised bathroom and for defecation.
Therefore, a further aim of this work is to provide a sewage treatment facility to cope with the problem of unsanitary
disposal of excreta. The majority of wastewater is generated from bathing, personal washing, ward clean-ups, patients’
services and general house-keeping activities. The approximate quantity of water being used per head per day was found
to be 64–79 litres, resulting in ~60 litres of wastewater that was discharged without treatment. To ameliorate environmental
risks that leper colonies are responsible for, the pour-flush toilet was recommended based on its suitability for the physical
condition of lepers, its ease of operation, maintenance and sustainability, minimum water usage for flushing and low
construction costs. However, this must be fed into a well designed and sited septic tank and soak-away pit to receive foul
sewage and sullage, respectively. Ideally, construction of a proper in-built bathroom is recommended for both the leprosarium
and camps.
Journal of Civil and Environmental Research, Sep 30, 2013
Waste from healthcare institutions generally ought to be treated and disposed hygienically. Howev... more Waste from healthcare institutions generally ought to be treated and disposed hygienically. However, the type of
institution normally determines the material component and the nature of the waste generated whether it is
hazardous or non-hazardous, infectious or non-infectious waste. Also health status of an individual or
community is a function of standard of living, medical services available, social amenities and hygienic
environment normally determined through impact assessment. These have been examined in relation to the
leprosarium in Ogbomosho, Southwestern Nigeria.
The leprosarium under study consists of a clinic and three camps located at about 1000m from the clinic. The
leprosarium housed 30 patients, while the camps served as home for about 140 people under rehabilitation
together including their children. As one of the health institutions, it is apparent that the waste generated is
heterogeneous mixture of both general municipal waste and bio-medical waste. The percentage of biomedical
waste which is hazardous in nature is low about 1.0% with average generation rate of 0.13kg/day while that of
non-hazardous, non-infectious general waste is 0.288kg/person/day. The average waste generation rate in term of
mass is determined to be between 0.084 – 0.095kg/person/day which reveals the poor status and rural nature of
these leper settlements. The waste components consist of bandages and swabs, paper, nylon and plastic, domestic
waste, animal waste (mostly goat manure), wood ash and yard trimmings which are being disposed on open
dump sites and sometimes by open burning which are unhygienic causing health hazards. Accumulation of these
waste components without proper disposal initiates its putrefaction which produces offensive odour. In addition,
absence of adequate sanitary facilities has promoted open defecation which is a source of infectious, diseases.
As an economical, appropriate and useful method of waste disposal, composting was proposed since it is found
relevant and acceptable for the leprosarium and the settlements around as the waste generated is predominantly
biodegradable and decomposable materials.
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Papers by Johnson Oluremi
Based on the results obtained, although all the soil samples could be used as subgrade material, Sample 4 with up to 70% gravely materials was considered the best as subgrade material for road construction purposes.
been investigated. Data collection, through waste sampling and analysis, interviews, questionnaire
surveys and field observations, was conducted between August and November 2006. Results indicate
a notably low mean waste generation rate of 241.5 g/h/d, which included bandages, paper, food waste,
animal waste, wood ash, yard trimmings, amongst others. There is no national policy on waste
handling. Domestic waste is mixed with biomedical waste without sorting. Moreover, waste-handlers
deal with waste materials by hand and without protective clothing or gloves, which needlessly exposes
them to greater health risks. Similarly, primitive hygiene facilities (e.g. pit latrines, plus inadequate
and intermittent water supplies) constitute a health risk to patients, staff and visitors. Recommendations
include i) provision of separate waste receptacles at generation points to facilitate proper sorting
and segregation; ii) adequate training and protective clothing for waste handlers; and iii) national and
international action for leprosy patients housed in these ‘out of sight, out of mind’ communes.
over has increased over the years due to increase in
population, socioeconomic activities and social
development. These wastes come from agricultural,
industrial, commercial as well as construction
activities. One of the most attractive options of
managing such wastes is to look into the possibility
of waste minimization and re-use. This research is
aimed at assessing the impact of coconut husk ash
(CHA) on the stabilization of poor lateritic soil
deposit found at Otu in Itesiwaju Local
Government Area in Oyo State, Southwestern
Nigeria.
In achieving this aim, Lateritic soil was
collected from Otu in Oyo State. The soil was air
dried and divided into six samples and each sample
was stabilized using 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% of
coconut ash by mass of soil sample. The samples
were subjected to the following laboratory soil
tests: particle size distribution analysis, Atterberg
limit test, compaction test, and California Bearing
Ratio in accordance with British Standard 1377
(1990) and Head (1992). Chemical composition
analysis of the coconut husk ash was done as well.
Chemical analysis of the coconut husk ash
shows that it contains 62.43%, 17.9% and 8.79% of
K2O, SiO2 and CaO respectively. The liquid limit
ranges between 58.9% and 67.2%, plastic limit
ranges between 25% and 47.14%, and plasticity
index is between 20% and 37%. The maximum dry
density ranges between 1.512 g/cm3 and 1.62 g/cm3
with their optimum water contents ranging between
13.5 and 24% while California bearing ratio
(soaked) is between 14% and 36%. Result shows
that maximum dry density of 1.62 g/cm3 with
corresponding optimum water content of 13.5%
was obtained at 4% of ash addition.
The result indicates that coconut husk ash is
suitable for improving the California bearing ratio
because this parameter increases with addition of
coconut husk ash. Addition of coconut husk ashalso increases the plastic limit but reduces the
plasticity index. Therefore, this study shows that
coconut husk ash can be effectively used to
improve lateritic soils with low CBR values but not
suitable for improving soils with high liquid limit.
than standard domestic wastewater and, therefore, is more infectious. Isolation of lepers’ is thought to prevent the
spread of a wide range of infectious diseases that could potentially be contacted through direct or indirect exposure from
an infected person’s wastewater in the surrounding environment. However, inappropriate management of wastewater and
sewage from these camps has led to contamination of the surrounding environment, typical in Nigeria. This study aims to
recommend safe, efficient and sustainable management of wastewater and sewage in a lepers’ colony in Ogbomosho,
south west Nigeria. The case study is privately owned, with three camps and a leprosarium. Information and data (primary
and secondary) were collected from medical personnel (doctors, matrons and nurses), management staff and lepers in each
camp, through hand- delivered and orally explained questionnaires and physical observations. Wastewater samples could
not be collected for analysis because there were no septic tanks or drainage for sewage and wastewater disposal. Two of
the camps have no sanitary disposal system, with the remaining camp occupying one pit latrine, which is inadequate in
prevention of environmental pollution. The leprosarium itself uses the pit latrine as an improvised bathroom and for defecation.
Therefore, a further aim of this work is to provide a sewage treatment facility to cope with the problem of unsanitary
disposal of excreta. The majority of wastewater is generated from bathing, personal washing, ward clean-ups, patients’
services and general house-keeping activities. The approximate quantity of water being used per head per day was found
to be 64–79 litres, resulting in ~60 litres of wastewater that was discharged without treatment. To ameliorate environmental
risks that leper colonies are responsible for, the pour-flush toilet was recommended based on its suitability for the physical
condition of lepers, its ease of operation, maintenance and sustainability, minimum water usage for flushing and low
construction costs. However, this must be fed into a well designed and sited septic tank and soak-away pit to receive foul
sewage and sullage, respectively. Ideally, construction of a proper in-built bathroom is recommended for both the leprosarium
and camps.
institution normally determines the material component and the nature of the waste generated whether it is
hazardous or non-hazardous, infectious or non-infectious waste. Also health status of an individual or
community is a function of standard of living, medical services available, social amenities and hygienic
environment normally determined through impact assessment. These have been examined in relation to the
leprosarium in Ogbomosho, Southwestern Nigeria.
The leprosarium under study consists of a clinic and three camps located at about 1000m from the clinic. The
leprosarium housed 30 patients, while the camps served as home for about 140 people under rehabilitation
together including their children. As one of the health institutions, it is apparent that the waste generated is
heterogeneous mixture of both general municipal waste and bio-medical waste. The percentage of biomedical
waste which is hazardous in nature is low about 1.0% with average generation rate of 0.13kg/day while that of
non-hazardous, non-infectious general waste is 0.288kg/person/day. The average waste generation rate in term of
mass is determined to be between 0.084 – 0.095kg/person/day which reveals the poor status and rural nature of
these leper settlements. The waste components consist of bandages and swabs, paper, nylon and plastic, domestic
waste, animal waste (mostly goat manure), wood ash and yard trimmings which are being disposed on open
dump sites and sometimes by open burning which are unhygienic causing health hazards. Accumulation of these
waste components without proper disposal initiates its putrefaction which produces offensive odour. In addition,
absence of adequate sanitary facilities has promoted open defecation which is a source of infectious, diseases.
As an economical, appropriate and useful method of waste disposal, composting was proposed since it is found
relevant and acceptable for the leprosarium and the settlements around as the waste generated is predominantly
biodegradable and decomposable materials.
Based on the results obtained, although all the soil samples could be used as subgrade material, Sample 4 with up to 70% gravely materials was considered the best as subgrade material for road construction purposes.
been investigated. Data collection, through waste sampling and analysis, interviews, questionnaire
surveys and field observations, was conducted between August and November 2006. Results indicate
a notably low mean waste generation rate of 241.5 g/h/d, which included bandages, paper, food waste,
animal waste, wood ash, yard trimmings, amongst others. There is no national policy on waste
handling. Domestic waste is mixed with biomedical waste without sorting. Moreover, waste-handlers
deal with waste materials by hand and without protective clothing or gloves, which needlessly exposes
them to greater health risks. Similarly, primitive hygiene facilities (e.g. pit latrines, plus inadequate
and intermittent water supplies) constitute a health risk to patients, staff and visitors. Recommendations
include i) provision of separate waste receptacles at generation points to facilitate proper sorting
and segregation; ii) adequate training and protective clothing for waste handlers; and iii) national and
international action for leprosy patients housed in these ‘out of sight, out of mind’ communes.
over has increased over the years due to increase in
population, socioeconomic activities and social
development. These wastes come from agricultural,
industrial, commercial as well as construction
activities. One of the most attractive options of
managing such wastes is to look into the possibility
of waste minimization and re-use. This research is
aimed at assessing the impact of coconut husk ash
(CHA) on the stabilization of poor lateritic soil
deposit found at Otu in Itesiwaju Local
Government Area in Oyo State, Southwestern
Nigeria.
In achieving this aim, Lateritic soil was
collected from Otu in Oyo State. The soil was air
dried and divided into six samples and each sample
was stabilized using 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% of
coconut ash by mass of soil sample. The samples
were subjected to the following laboratory soil
tests: particle size distribution analysis, Atterberg
limit test, compaction test, and California Bearing
Ratio in accordance with British Standard 1377
(1990) and Head (1992). Chemical composition
analysis of the coconut husk ash was done as well.
Chemical analysis of the coconut husk ash
shows that it contains 62.43%, 17.9% and 8.79% of
K2O, SiO2 and CaO respectively. The liquid limit
ranges between 58.9% and 67.2%, plastic limit
ranges between 25% and 47.14%, and plasticity
index is between 20% and 37%. The maximum dry
density ranges between 1.512 g/cm3 and 1.62 g/cm3
with their optimum water contents ranging between
13.5 and 24% while California bearing ratio
(soaked) is between 14% and 36%. Result shows
that maximum dry density of 1.62 g/cm3 with
corresponding optimum water content of 13.5%
was obtained at 4% of ash addition.
The result indicates that coconut husk ash is
suitable for improving the California bearing ratio
because this parameter increases with addition of
coconut husk ash. Addition of coconut husk ashalso increases the plastic limit but reduces the
plasticity index. Therefore, this study shows that
coconut husk ash can be effectively used to
improve lateritic soils with low CBR values but not
suitable for improving soils with high liquid limit.
than standard domestic wastewater and, therefore, is more infectious. Isolation of lepers’ is thought to prevent the
spread of a wide range of infectious diseases that could potentially be contacted through direct or indirect exposure from
an infected person’s wastewater in the surrounding environment. However, inappropriate management of wastewater and
sewage from these camps has led to contamination of the surrounding environment, typical in Nigeria. This study aims to
recommend safe, efficient and sustainable management of wastewater and sewage in a lepers’ colony in Ogbomosho,
south west Nigeria. The case study is privately owned, with three camps and a leprosarium. Information and data (primary
and secondary) were collected from medical personnel (doctors, matrons and nurses), management staff and lepers in each
camp, through hand- delivered and orally explained questionnaires and physical observations. Wastewater samples could
not be collected for analysis because there were no septic tanks or drainage for sewage and wastewater disposal. Two of
the camps have no sanitary disposal system, with the remaining camp occupying one pit latrine, which is inadequate in
prevention of environmental pollution. The leprosarium itself uses the pit latrine as an improvised bathroom and for defecation.
Therefore, a further aim of this work is to provide a sewage treatment facility to cope with the problem of unsanitary
disposal of excreta. The majority of wastewater is generated from bathing, personal washing, ward clean-ups, patients’
services and general house-keeping activities. The approximate quantity of water being used per head per day was found
to be 64–79 litres, resulting in ~60 litres of wastewater that was discharged without treatment. To ameliorate environmental
risks that leper colonies are responsible for, the pour-flush toilet was recommended based on its suitability for the physical
condition of lepers, its ease of operation, maintenance and sustainability, minimum water usage for flushing and low
construction costs. However, this must be fed into a well designed and sited septic tank and soak-away pit to receive foul
sewage and sullage, respectively. Ideally, construction of a proper in-built bathroom is recommended for both the leprosarium
and camps.
institution normally determines the material component and the nature of the waste generated whether it is
hazardous or non-hazardous, infectious or non-infectious waste. Also health status of an individual or
community is a function of standard of living, medical services available, social amenities and hygienic
environment normally determined through impact assessment. These have been examined in relation to the
leprosarium in Ogbomosho, Southwestern Nigeria.
The leprosarium under study consists of a clinic and three camps located at about 1000m from the clinic. The
leprosarium housed 30 patients, while the camps served as home for about 140 people under rehabilitation
together including their children. As one of the health institutions, it is apparent that the waste generated is
heterogeneous mixture of both general municipal waste and bio-medical waste. The percentage of biomedical
waste which is hazardous in nature is low about 1.0% with average generation rate of 0.13kg/day while that of
non-hazardous, non-infectious general waste is 0.288kg/person/day. The average waste generation rate in term of
mass is determined to be between 0.084 – 0.095kg/person/day which reveals the poor status and rural nature of
these leper settlements. The waste components consist of bandages and swabs, paper, nylon and plastic, domestic
waste, animal waste (mostly goat manure), wood ash and yard trimmings which are being disposed on open
dump sites and sometimes by open burning which are unhygienic causing health hazards. Accumulation of these
waste components without proper disposal initiates its putrefaction which produces offensive odour. In addition,
absence of adequate sanitary facilities has promoted open defecation which is a source of infectious, diseases.
As an economical, appropriate and useful method of waste disposal, composting was proposed since it is found
relevant and acceptable for the leprosarium and the settlements around as the waste generated is predominantly
biodegradable and decomposable materials.