A Novel Design of Ergonomic Ablution Place at Mosques in Arar, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Currently, there are hardly any uniform design specifications for the construction of ablution places at mosques in Saudi Arabia. Designs of ablution places are usually copied from designs of ablution places in other mosques or based on individual perspectives. Based on the researchers’ anecdotal observations, most of these designs are nonergonomic, uncomfortable, and less user-friendly for ablution in either sitting or standing position, especially for the elderly. In such designs, water splashing is common because of inappropriate heights of platforms or seats, insufficient distances between seats and faucets, and improper shapes and depths of water drain. The purpose of the present study is to present the design of a novel ergonomic ablution place to ensure comfortable, safe, and hygienic conditions. The design is particularly related to the size and height of seat, height and distance of faucet from the seat, depth and slope of water drain, and height and width of the platform. The design was implemented at four mosques in Arar, Saudi Arabia. Modifications at ablution places were made according to the proposed design and were appreciated by the local community. The design was communicated to the Directorate of Mosques in Arar and agreed upon for implementation in other mosques.