26 Water for Life
The windlass, bucket, and chain
A windlass is a shaft fitted with a handle that makes raising the bucket easier and
provides a place to wrap the bucket chain or rope. If a pump is fitted to the well later,
the windlass can easily be removed. Attach a durable bucket to the end of the chain
or rope. Chain is best because fewer germs will grow on it, but it is costly. Rope is
less costly and can be replaced easily if it breaks. Metal buckets will last longer than
plastic ones. Durable buckets can be made from used tires and inner tubes.
Cut slots in the
poles and place
the windlass.
Drive bolts through the
posts above the windlass
to keep it secure.
Set windlass supports
in concrete on each
side of the well.
Wrap wire around the
post bottoms to prevent
them from expanding and
cracking the concrete.
The drainage platform
The drainage platform carries wastewater and runoff away from the well to a drainage
area slightly downhill, to prevent the area around the well from getting muddy and
breeding germs and insects. Germs can grow in cracks, so it is important to ensure
that the platform is well made.
Platform 2 to 3 meters
in diameter
Runoff channel
4 to 6 meters
long if possible
Pour concrete to a depth of 75 millimeters, with a raised outer rim 150 millimeters
high. The entire platform and rim should be reinforced with 3 mm wire to prevent it
from cracking.