Urinal

A man using a urinal

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Floor standing urinals

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Urinal with urinal cake gsu cit 2004

Many urinals rows with amber lighting in the Tokyo Cinema's toilet

Urinal is a sanitary plumbing fixture for urination only. Urinals are often provided in public toilets for male users in a standing position. They are designed to minimize water usage, improve hygiene, and reduce the need for cleaning. The design of urinals can vary widely, including single or multiple units, and they can be made from a variety of materials such as porcelain, stainless steel, or plastic.

History

The history of the urinal dates back to the late 19th century when public sanitation began to receive more attention due to the health issues associated with rapidly growing urban areas. The introduction of urinals was part of a broader movement towards improved public sanitation facilities. Initially, urinals were simply troughs with a continuous flow of water. Over time, the design has evolved to include individual units with automatic or manual flushing mechanisms.

Types

There are several types of urinals, each catering to different needs and spaces. These include:

• Wall-hung urinals: The most common type, attached directly to the wall.
• Stall-type urinals: Provide more privacy, with partitions separating each unit.
• Trough urinals: Long, continuous units that can accommodate multiple users simultaneously.
• Waterless urinals: Use a sealant liquid or a cartridge system instead of water for flushing, significantly reducing water usage.

Design and Operation

Modern urinals are designed with both functionality and water conservation in mind. The typical operation involves a flushing mechanism that can be manual, with a handle or button, or automatic, using an infrared sensor to detect when a user has moved away. Waterless urinals, on the other hand, rely on a physical barrier or a biodegradable liquid to block odors without the need for flushing.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation of urinals requires consideration of plumbing, water supply, and drainage. Proper maintenance is crucial to prevent odors and ensure hygiene. This includes regular cleaning and, for waterless urinals, replacement of the cartridge or sealant as needed.

Environmental Impact

Urinals have a significant positive impact on the environment by reducing water usage. Traditional flush urinals can use between 0.5 to 1.5 gallons per flush, while waterless models can save thousands of gallons of water each year per unit.

Cultural Aspects

The use of urinals is subject to cultural and social norms. In some cultures, public urination facilities are segregated by gender, leading to discussions about equality and accessibility. Additionally, the design and presence of urinals in public spaces reflect broader societal attitudes towards hygiene, privacy, and public sanitation.

See Also

• Toilet
• Plumbing
• Sanitation
• Water conservation

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