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Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Medknow Publications
ISSN: 0973-2284
EISSN: 0973-2284
Vol. 12, No. 3, 2008, pp. 112-115
Bioline Code: oe08030
Full paper language: English
Document type: Review Article
Document available free of charge

Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 12, No. 3, 2008, pp. 112-115

 en Occupational Health Hazards in Sewage and Sanitary Workers
Tiwari, Rajnarayan R.

Abstract

An estimated 1.2 million scavengers in the country are involved in the sanitation of our surroundings. The working conditions of these sanitary workers have remained virtually unchanged for over a century. Apart from the social atrocities that these workers face, they are exposed to certain health problems by virtue of their occupation. These health hazards include exposure to harmful gases such as methane and hydrogen sulfide, cardiovascular degeneration, musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritic changes and intervertebral disc herniation, infections like hepatitis, leptospirosis and helicobacter, skin problems, respiratory system problems and altered pulmonary function parameters. This can be prevented through engineering, medical and legislative measures. While the engineering measures will help in protecting against exposures, the medical measures will help in early detection of the effects of these exposures. This can be partly achieved by developing an effective occupational health service for this group of workers. Also, regular awareness programs should be conducted to impart education regarding safer work procedures and use of personal protective devices.

Keywords
Sanitary workers, sewage workers

 
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