Aibor and Olorunda (2007), said that the basic aspect of housing realities to the paper setting and construction of a residence which provide fundamental physiological, psychological and sanitary requirements, hence the then adopted by the World Health Organization for 1973 world health days says health begins at home.
In order to ensure that house construction provides the actual satisfactory and protection for its user the following standards requirement of housing construction should be adhere to National Guideline in Environmental Health Practice in Nigeria of (2000), state that the requirement for housing (building) construction in Nigeria are as follows;
- Housing should be constructed, maintained and occupied in a manner to ensure optimal physical, physiological and psychological needs of the occupants
- Every premises should be maintained in such a way so as to prevent structural defects or occurrences of nuisance(s)
- Every premises should be used only for the purpose(s) for which it was approved
- Every room in a premises should be built in such a way to allow for natural lighting and ventilation
- No alteration of existing premises should be carried out without the knowledge of the E.H.O in charge of the area.
- Every premises should be built so as to allow for maximum open space between existing building as contained in relevant laws and regulations
- Every room in a premises should be adequately ventilated and for this purpose, the window(s) opening directly outside should not be less than one-eighth of the floor area.
The objective of good housing is to ensure positive state of well being that is beyond mere absence of diseases, minimize hazards in the environment, provide a good social environment and promote the health of the inhabitants or users which is necessary for the maintenance of the fundamental physiological and psychological need of human (Erutase, 2007).
If this standard are totally adhere to, it will help to reduce poor housing, prevent health implications related to it and safe-guard the health of the occupants in house. Individuals within the community should be health educated on the hazards associated with poor housing. Awareness campaign should be created for them to known the importance of good housekeeping, usage of quality materials and engagement in community sanitation (Cromady, 2004).
Article 25c of United Nation Law on Human Right (2002) stated that every individual has the right to adequate standard of living for the health and well being of himself and his family.
References
Aibor, M. S. & Olorunda, J.O. (2007). A technical handbook of environmental health in the 21st century for professionals & students. Lagos: Divine Favour Publishers.
Comandy, (2004). Regulation and specification of standard of living, Benin: BHB Publisher Press.
