Serbian barrel

Serbian Barrel

The Serbian barrel is a type of field disinfector used primarily during the early 20th century for the purpose of delousing and disinfecting clothing and bedding in military and civilian settings. It was notably utilized during World War I and World War II to combat the spread of lice-borne diseases such as typhus.

Diagram of a Serbian barrel

Design and Function

The Serbian barrel consists of a large metal drum, typically mounted on a wheeled carriage for mobility. The drum is equipped with a firebox at the base, which is used to heat water and generate steam. Clothing and other items to be disinfected are placed inside the drum, where they are exposed to the steam for a sufficient period to kill lice and other parasites.

The design of the Serbian barrel allows for efficient steam penetration, ensuring that all items within the drum are thoroughly disinfected. The steam not only kills lice but also destroys their eggs, providing a comprehensive solution to the problem of infestation.

Historical Context

During World War I, the spread of lice and the diseases they carried posed a significant threat to soldiers and civilians alike. The Serbian barrel was developed as a response to this threat, providing a practical means of controlling lice populations in military camps and field hospitals.

The device was named after Serbia, where it was first widely used. The effectiveness of the Serbian barrel in reducing the incidence of lice-borne diseases made it an essential tool in the hygiene practices of the time.

Serbian barrel disinfectors in use

Usage

To operate a Serbian barrel, the firebox is first loaded with fuel, typically wood or coal, and ignited. Water is added to the drum, and as it heats, steam is generated. The items to be disinfected are placed inside the drum, and the lid is secured to contain the steam. After a set period, the items are removed, now free of lice and other parasites.

The portability of the Serbian barrel made it particularly useful in field conditions, where permanent facilities for disinfection were unavailable. Its use was not limited to military applications; it was also employed in refugee camps and other civilian settings where lice infestations were common.

Related Pages

• Delousing
• Typhus
• World War I
• World War II