Occupational Hazards and Multiple Forms of Exclusion faced by Sanitation Workers

Abstract

This study aims to explore the complex challenges faced by sanitation workers in India in their daily lives. The workplace hazards are tied to struggles of personal life, and both of these factors reinforce and compound each other. Sanitation workers are involved in managing critical aspects of public health, and yet the discourse around their own health and well-being is neglected in policy corridors. This review paper has synthesized information from existing literature on sanitation workers and incorporates secondary data from sources such as government reports, complete sources. The data were analyzed thematically and key findings were presented in tabular form. The study has addressed the social, cultural, and epidemiological aspects that hinder the upliftment of sanitation workers. Their exclusion is influenced by social- political dynamics, and the archaic concepts of pollution-purity which restrict their social mobility and the capacity to live more dignified lives. The paper also highlights recommendations for Social Work practice towards mitigating occupational hazards and various forms of exclusion faced by sanitation workers.