Modernizing the Indian sewerage system – proposal for vocational training and licensing of sanitation professionals: A step toward dignity, safety, and recognition

ABSTRACT

Sanitation workers play a crucial role in the functioning of India’s urban and rural public health systems. They are responsible for waste collection, sewer maintenance, drain cleaning, public toilet sanitation, and other essential hygienic services. According to the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis (NCSK), 113 persons have lost their lives during the past 2 years, 2023 and 2024, due to hazardous cleaning of sewer and septic tanks. These deaths are often caused by suffocation, inhalation of toxic gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide, and falls into open trenches, with negligible safety measures in place. While India has enacted laws such as the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, gaps remain in enforcement and occupational safety. The absence of a formal recognition and certification system has perpetuated informality in this workforce. This proposal aims to introduce a structured Sanitation Worker Licence nationwide as a step toward ensuring dignity, safety, and professional recognition for sanitation workers. Modernizing sewer systems is crucial for addressing sanitation challenges, improving public health, and promoting sustainable urban development. India’s reforms must pivot from reactionary measures to proactive, technological solutions that elevate safety standards and operational efficiency.

Introduction

Sanitation workers play a crucial role in the functioning of India’s urban and rural public health systems. They are responsible for waste collection, sewer maintenance, drain cleaning, public toilet sanitation, and other essential hygienic services. Despite their critical role, these workers often operate in unsafe conditions, lack proper training and legal protections, and are vulnerable to social discrimination and exploitation. According to the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis (NCSK), 113 persons have lost their lives during the past 2 years, 2023 and 2024, due to hazardous cleaning of sewer and septic tanks.[1] These deaths are often caused by suffocation, inhalation of toxic gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide, and falls into open trenches, with negligible safety measures in place. The workers, mostly from marginalized communities and lower socioeconomic backgrounds, are often employed illegally and without protective equipment, making their job a death trap masked under the facade of tradition and lack of infrastructure. The lethal toll of manual sewer cleaning was recognized decades ago, yet efforts to mechanize and regulate the sector have been slow and inconsistent.

While India has enacted laws such as the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, gaps remain in enforcement and occupational safety. The absence of a formal recognition and certification system has perpetuated informality in this workforce. This proposal aims to introduce a structured Sanitation Worker Licence nationwide as a step toward ensuring dignity, safety, and professional recognition for sanitation workers. Modernizing sewer systems is crucial for addressing sanitation challenges, improving public health, and promoting sustainable urban development. India’s reforms must pivot from reactionary measures to proactive, technological solutions that elevate safety standards and operational efficiency.

The Vocation of Sanitation Professionals

Sanitation work involves the cleaning, maintenance, and repair of sewer systems, septic tanks, and drainage networks. It is essential to recognize that various roles and responsibilities within the sanitation sector do not involve hazardous manual cleaning practices. This profession is no less risky than many vocations, such as deep-sea diving and locomotive piloting. Sewer cleaning can be a hazardous and potentially life-threatening task.

Table 1 Many sewer cleaning activities are carried out using mechanized equipment, such as jetting machines, vacuum trucks, and robotic devices. Sanitation workers operating these machines play a crucial role in cleaning and clearing blockages, inspecting sewer lines, and ensuring the proper functioning of sewer infrastructure. Sanitation workers are responsible for conducting routine maintenance and repair work on sewer systems to prevent leaks, clogs, and other issues that can cause problems. This may include inspecting pipes, replacing damaged components, and conducting sewer line rehabilitation projects to extend the lifespan of infrastructure. In addition to performing cleaning and maintenance tasks, sanitation workers are responsible for ensuring their safety and adhering to health protocols while working in sewer environments. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following established safety procedures, and receiving training in the safe handling of hazardous materials and equipment. Sanitation workers are often called upon to respond to emergencies such as sewer overflows, floods, and environmental incidents. They play a critical role in containing spills, mitigating environmental damage, and restoring sewer services in emergencies.

Table 1.

Occupational risks involved in sewer and septic tank cleaning

	Risk type	Risk description
1	Confined Spaces	Sewers are often confined spaces with limited ventilation, poor lighting, and restricted access points. Working in confined spaces can increase the risk of asphyxiation, heat stress, claustrophobia, and panic attacks among workers.
2	Toxic Gases	Sewer atmospheres may contain toxic gases, such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), and ammonia (NH3), which are generated from the decomposition of organic matter and chemical reactions. Exposure to these gases can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness, and even death in high concentrations.
3	Lack of Oxygen	Sewer environments may have low levels of oxygen, particularly in areas with stagnant water or decomposition processes. Inadequate oxygen levels can lead to hypoxia, suffocation, and loss of consciousness if workers are not equipped with appropriate respiratory protection or ventilation systems.
4	Physical Hazards	Sewers may contain physical hazards such as sharp objects, protruding pipes, slippery surfaces, and debris that can cause trips, falls, cuts, and puncture wounds. Working in dark and cramped conditions increases the risk of accidental injuries and musculoskeletal strains among workers.
5	Drowning and Submersion	Sewers may contain water channels, bottomless pits, or underground chambers where workers can accidentally fall or become submerged. Drowning and submersion incidents can occur when workers fail to wear flotation devices, safety harnesses, or fall protection equipment while working near water bodies.
6	Chemical Exposure	Sewer environments may contain hazardous chemicals, industrial waste, and toxic substances that pose health risks to workers upon skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation. Exposure to corrosive chemicals, solvents, or heavy metals can lead to chemical burns, skin irritation, respiratory problems, and long-term health issues.
7	Biological Hazards	Sewage may contain pathogenic microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause infectious diseases and gastrointestinal illnesses if workers come into contact with contaminated water or sewage sludge. Proper hygiene practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), and vaccination programs are crucial for safeguarding workers against biological hazards.
8	Collapse and Structural Failures	Aging sewer infrastructure, pipe deterioration, and soil erosion can increase the risk of structural collapses, cave-ins, and trenching accidents during sewer cleaning operations. Workers may be trapped or buried under debris, leading to serious injuries or fatalities if proper safety precautions are not followed.

It is essential to recognize the dignity and value of all sanitation workers and ensure that they are provided with safe working conditions, fair wages, and access to training and support services. Efforts to modernize sewer cleaning practices and promote the wellbeing of sanitation workers are essential for creating a safer, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all.

Sanitation Worker Licensing Practices in Developed Countries

In developed countries, sanitation work is generally recognized as a formal, regulated, and skilled profession. While not all nations have a formal “license” for sanitation workers in the same way that professionals like doctors or engineers are licensed, there are structured certification, training, safety compliance, and employment standards in place that serve similar purposes. These practices enhance professionalism, ensure worker safety, and uphold public health standards [Table 2].

Table 2.

Sanitation professional country wise status

	Country	Sanitation professional status
1	United States	Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) plays a central role in regulating the safety of sanitation workers. Workers involved in hazardous waste, sewer maintenance, or solid waste collection are required to undergo certified training programs, such as Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training, and confined Space Entry Training for those working in sewers. Licensing and certification are often state or municipal-level requirements, particularly for operating heavy sanitation machinery (e.g., garbage trucks, vacuum trucks).
		Sanitation workers are typically unionized and receive protections including health insurance, retirement plans, and grievance redress mechanisms.
2	United Kingdom	Sanitation services are regulated under the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which mandates safety training and risk assessments for waste and sewer workers. Workers are certified through vocational training frameworks such as National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) in Waste Management. Licensing is mandatory for companies managing hazardous or clinical waste, ensuring that trained personnel are employed to handle these materials. Local authorities or private contractors must meet employment standards when hiring sanitation workers, ensuring fair wages, proper use of PPE, and adequate equipment.
3	Germany	Sanitation workers undergo apprenticeship-based training in waste management through Germany’s dual education system. Workers earn professional qualifications in areas such as “Fachkraft für Kreislauf- und Abfallwirtschaft” (Waste Management Specialist). There are clear job roles, career progression routes, and certification requirements. The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) ensures that training content is regularly updated according to environmental and safety standards.
4	Australia	Waste and sanitation workers are covered under various State-based Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws. Mandatory induction and skill certification programs (such as the White Card for construction and sanitation-related workers) ensure awareness of risks. The Certificate III in Waste Management is a nationally recognized qualification. Licensing is required for operating waste transportation and landfill operations, especially when handling hazardous materials.
5	Japan	Japan prioritizes automation and safety, featuring advanced waste disposal systems that minimize manual contact. Workers involved in sanitation undergo formal vocational training and are often employed by municipal corporations with full legal protections. Stringent hygiene, safety, and mechanical operation training are required. The Ministry of the Environment regulates practices to ensure uniform standards across prefectures.

Modern Sewer Engineering and Technology

Sewer engineering encompasses the design, implementation, and management of systems and processes designed to maintain clear and functional sewer networks. Sewer clearing engineers design sewer systems with considerations for capacity, flow rates, gradient, and access points to facilitate efficient cleaning and maintenance. They evaluate existing infrastructure and develop plans for new construction or upgrades to optimize performance and minimize the risk of blockages and backups. Sewer clearing engineers select and specify the appropriate equipment and tools for clearing sewer blockages and performing maintenance activities. This may include high-pressure water jetters, vacuum trucks, Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) inspection cameras, robotic devices, and hand tools tailored to the specific requirements of each project.

Sewer clearing engineers develop maintenance strategies and schedules to ensure regular inspection, cleaning, and repair of sewer networks. They prioritize maintenance tasks based on factors such as criticality, condition assessment, historical performance data, and environmental factors to maximize the lifespan and reliability of sewer infrastructure. Sewer clearing engineers integrate advanced technologies, including remote monitoring systems, GIS mapping, predictive analytics, and automation, into their sewer clearing operations to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

They leverage digital tools and software platforms to streamline data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes. Sewer clearing engineers establish safety protocols and procedures to protect workers and the public during sewer maintenance activities. They develop confined space entry plans, conduct hazard assessments, establish emergency response protocols, and implement training programs to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and industry best practices.

Sewer clearing engineers address environmental considerations such as pollution prevention, waste management, and regulatory compliance in their project planning and implementation. They implement measures to minimize the environmental impact of sewer clearing activities, including the proper disposal of wastewater and waste materials, as well as adherence to discharge standards. Sewer clearing engineers engage with stakeholders, community members, and regulatory agencies to communicate project objectives, solicit feedback, and address concerns related to sewer clearing activities.

They promote public awareness about the importance of sewer maintenance, pollution prevention, and environmental stewardship to foster community support and participation. Sewer clearing engineers monitor performance metrics, analyze data, and conduct post-project evaluations to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation in sewer clearing engineering practices. They collaborate with cross-functional teams and industry partners to implement lessons learned and best practices, continuously enhancing sewer clearing operations.

By applying principles of engineering, technology, and environmental science, sewer clearing engineers play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and sustainability of sewer networks. Their expertise helps to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and maintain the essential infrastructure that supports modern urban living.

Modernizing the Indian Sewer System

Modernizing sewer systems is crucial for addressing sanitation challenges, improving public health, and promoting sustainable urban development. India’s reforms must pivot from reactionary measures to proactive, technological solutions that elevate safety standards and operational efficiency. Every city and town must prioritize the construction of sealed, pressurized sewer lines that are capable of preventing contamination and reducing the need for manual intervention. The current approach of open drains and manual cleaning perpetuates a cycle of danger and contamination.

The introduction of mechanized sewer cleaning systems—such as high-pressure jetting, robotic cleaners, and closed-circuit vacuum trucks—has proven successful in many countries. These systems safeguard workers from hazardous environments, minimize health risks, and promote hygiene and cleanliness. Governments must monitor and penalize illegal employment practices to ensure compliance with safety standards. Training programs on the safe use of equipment, occupational health, and safety protocols must be made mandatory. Workers need to be aware of gases, first aid, and emergency procedures.

Significant investment is needed to upgrade and expand the sewer infrastructure across urban and rural areas of India. This includes the construction of new sewer lines, treatment plants, pumping stations, and storage facilities to accommodate growing populations and urbanization. Incorporating modern technologies such as advanced sewage treatment processes, decentralized wastewater treatment systems, smart sensors for monitoring, and real-time data analytics can enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the sewer system. Implementing decentralized wastewater treatment systems can help extend sewer coverage to areas with limited infrastructure and reduce the burden on centralized treatment plants.

Technologies such as onsite sewage treatment units, constructed wetlands, and biodigesters can be deployed to treat wastewater at the source. Promoting the reuse and recycling of treated wastewater for nonpotable uses such as irrigation, industrial processes, and groundwater recharge can help conserve water resources and reduce the strain on freshwater sources. Establishing guidelines and incentives for wastewater reuse can encourage adoption by industries and municipalities. Educating the public about the importance of proper sanitation, wastewater management, and hygiene practices is crucial for promoting behavioral change and reducing pollution. Public awareness campaigns, community engagement programs, and the integration of school curricula can promote good sanitation habits and environmental stewardship.

Strengthening regulatory frameworks, standards, and enforcement mechanisms related to sewage discharge, water quality, and environmental protection is necessary to ensure compliance and accountability among stakeholders. This includes monitoring pollution levels, imposing penalties for violations, and promoting best practices in wastewater management. Building the capacity of municipal authorities, wastewater treatment operators, and sanitation workers through training programs, technical assistance, and knowledge exchange initiatives can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of the sewer system. Integrating sewer system planning and design with urban development policies, land use planning, and infrastructure projects is essential for creating resilient and sustainable cities. Incorporating green infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, and flood management measures can help mitigate the impact of urbanization on water resources and ecosystems.

By implementing these measures in a coordinated and holistic manner, India can modernise its sewer system, improve sanitation services, protect public health, and promote sustainable development for current and future generations. Collaboration among government agencies, civil society organisations, private sector stakeholders, and communities will be essential to achieve these goals.

Sanitation Worker Licence System Framework

The practices in developed countries demonstrate that sanitation work is recognized as a skilled and regulated profession, rather than an informal or stigmatized activity. Developed countries use certification and regulated training programs rather than universal licensing, but these mechanisms achieve the same objectives: safety, professionalism, and accountability. Linking sanitation work with vocational education, formal job contracts, and regulatory oversight is key to protecting workers and improving service delivery. A sanitation worker licensing system in India—tailored to its socioeconomic and administrative context—would not only align with global best practices but also significantly uplift the dignity, health, and rights of millions of frontline sanitation workers. India can adopt a hybrid model—introducing a licence or certificate-issued post-training under national skill development programs, aligned with local municipal laws [Table 3].

Table 3.

Sanitation worker licence system framework

Domain	Description
Rationale for Licensing Sanitation Workers	Occupational Health and Safety: Training programs cover occupational health and safety regulations, hazards associated with sewer cleaning, and best practices for preventing accidents and injuries. This includes instruction on handling hazardous materials, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and responding to emergencies.
	Technical Skills: Participants learn technical skills related to sewer cleaning equipment, tools, and techniques. This may include operating jetting machines, vacuum trucks, CCTV inspection cameras, and other specialized equipment used in sewer maintenance and cleaning operations.
	Maintenance and Repair: Training programs may include instruction on routine maintenance tasks, troubleshooting common issues, and performing minor repairs on sewer infrastructure. Participants learn how to identify defects, assess the condition of pipes, and address blockages or leaks in sewer lines.
	Environmental Protection: Sewer cleaning training emphasizes the importance of environmental protection and pollution prevention. Participants learn about wastewater management practices, regulations governing discharge standards, and measures for minimizing the environmental impact of sewer cleaning activities.
	Communication and Customer Service: Effective communication skills are essential for interacting with colleagues, supervisors, and members of the public during sewer cleaning operations. Training programs may include modules on customer service, conflict resolution, and teamwork to ensure smooth coordination and collaboration among sanitation workers.
	Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Participants gain an understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards governing sewer cleaning operations. This includes compliance with occupational safety regulations, environmental regulations, and sanitation codes applicable to sewer maintenance activities.
	Certification and Accreditation: Upon completion of training programs, participants may receive certification or accreditation from recognized training providers, industry associations, or government agencies. Certification demonstrates that individuals have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to perform sewer cleaning duties safely and effectively.
	Continuing Education and Professional Development: Sewer cleaning professionals may pursue continuing education and professional development opportunities to stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in sewer maintenance. This may involve attending workshops, seminars, or online courses offered by industry organizations and educational institutions.
Key Objectives of the Sanitation Worker Licence System	To formally recognize sanitation workers as skilled professionals through a licensing mechanism.
	To mandate training and certification as prerequisites for engaging in sanitation work, especially hazardous tasks.
	To improve occupational health and safety standards across the sanitation workforce.
	To create a national registry for effective policy planning, monitoring, and welfare delivery.
	To reinforce legal and social safeguards, including the eradication of manual scavenging.
Rationale for Licensing Sanitation Workers	1. Eligibility Criteria
	Minimum age: 18 years. Mandatory completion of a government-approved sanitation training program. Basic health check-up to assess fitness for duty. 2. Training and Certification
	Government-funded or subsidized training through skill development centers.
	Educational Modules:
	Use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
	Occupational health and first aid.
	Mechanical cleaning methods (to reduce manual scavenging).
	Legal rights and entitlements.
	Waste segregation and sustainable disposal methods.
	3. Issuance of Licence
	Licences to be issued by local municipal bodies or state urban development departments, valid for 3–5 years. Renewable upon completion of refresher training and regular health check-ups. Unique identification number linked to Aadhaar and the national labor database.
	4. Licensing Authority and Governance
	A nodal agency under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to coordinate implementation. State-level Sanitation Licensing Boards will oversee training institutions, maintain the database, and handle grievances.
	5. Legal Backing
	Amendments to relevant labor laws, including the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act (2013), to incorporate licensing requirements. Penal provisions for hiring unlicensed workers, particularly for hazardous jobs.
Implementation Strategy	Pilot Programs: Begin with select urban local bodies in high-density areas, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, before scaling up.
	Awareness Campaigns: Inform sanitation workers and employers about the purpose and benefits of licensing.
	Public–Private Partnerships: Engage NGOs, skill development agencies, and private employers in rolling out training and certification programs.
	Technology Integration: Develop a digital platform to manage the licensing process, renewals, and grievance redressal. Budget Allocation: Provision for training costs, PPE kits, and administrative infrastructure through the Swachh Bharat Mission and labor welfare schemes.
Expected Benefits	Enhanced Worker Safety: Reduced incidence of occupational diseases, injuries, and fatalities.
	Increased Employability and Income: Recognized credentials can help workers access better-paying and less-exploitative opportunities.
	Better Urban Management: A professionalized workforce would improve service delivery, waste management, and sanitation outcomes.
	Social Inclusion: Helps break the stigma traditionally associated with sanitation work, which is often carried out by marginalized communities.
Challenges	Resistance from contractors/employers
	Initial cost of training and licensing
	Reaching informal/unregistered workers
	Potential exclusion of older or illiterate workers
Mitigation Strategies	Strict enforcement and penalties; incentives for compliant firms
	Government subsidies and CSR support
	Tailored training modules with visual aids and vernacular languages

Conclusion

Licensing sanitation professionals in India is a long-overdue policy reform that can dramatically improve occupational health, social dignity, and public sanitation outcomes. Beyond the immediate benefits of worker safety and better hygiene, such a system can redefine how society values this indispensable labor force. It is not merely a regulatory measure but a moral and social imperative for a country that aspires to inclusive development and equitable public health. By implementing a sanitation worker licence system, India can uphold the constitutional values of dignity, equality, and justice for one of its most vulnerable yet vital groups. India’s sanitation revolution can only be considered complete when every worker involved in sewer and drain cleaning is protected, equipped, and valued. Modernizing sanitation systems is not merely a technological upgrade, but a moral imperative—an acknowledgment that access to safe sanitation is a fundamental human right. The government, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to implement reforms, promote innovation, and cultivate a culture that respects the dignity of sanitation workers. Only then can India truly achieve its goal of a clean, safe, and healthy nation, free from the deadly toll of preventable sewage deaths.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.