Hazardous Sewer Cleaning Risks and Safety Measures in India
Recent reports show critical safety lapses among sewer and septic tank workers in India. Over 90% of workers who died during hazardous cleaning lacked proper safety gear. A government-commissioned social audit has revealed alarming gaps in safety protocols, training and worker consent. This has prompted the launch of targeted schemes to improve conditions.
Current Safety Scenario
Between 2022 and 2023, 150 deaths occurred due to hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning. The audit examined 54 cases across eight States and Union Territories. It found that in 49 cases, workers had no protective equipment. Only gloves and gumboots were sometimes provided. Mechanised cleaning tools were almost never used. Training on safety measures was nearly absent.
Worker Consent and Employment Conditions
In 27 cases, workers were not asked for consent before hazardous work. Even when written consent was taken, workers were not informed about the risks. Most workers (38 cases) were individually contracted. Few were employed directly by government agencies. Some were hired by private employers through public sector channels. This arrangement often bypassed proper safety protocols.
Government Response and NAMASTE Scheme
The Social Justice Ministry launched the NAMASTE scheme in July 2023. It aims to address hazardous cleaning risks and support waste pickers. The scheme has identified nearly 85,000 sewer and septic tank workers nationwide. About half have received personal protective equipment (PPE) kits. Odisha has achieved full PPE coverage for its workers through the Garima scheme.
Safety Training and Awareness
Workshops on hazardous cleaning prevention have reached about 1,000 participants. However, awareness drives following deaths were limited and incomplete. Only select districts like Chennai, Kancheepuram and Satara conducted partial awareness campaigns. Equipment readiness remains poor in most agencies responsible for sewer cleaning.
Financial and Institutional Support
Over ₹20 crore in capital subsidies have been allocated under NAMASTE to improve worker safety. Despite this, many sanitation workers still face hazardous conditions without adequate gear or mechanised tools. Institutional mechanisms for rapid emergency response are largely inadequate.
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