International Journal of Nursing Education and Research
  • Year: 2025
  • Volume: 13
  • Issue: 4

Occupational Health Problems among Manual Scavengers in India and Role of Community Health Nurse

  • Author:
  • Ayusheeka Krishnan Patel*, Namita Batra
  • Total Page Count: 8
  • Published Online: May 12, 2026
  • Page Number: 243 to 250

Department of Community Health Nursing

*Corresponding Author E-mail: ayusheekakrishnan786@gmail.com

Online Published on 12 May, 2026.

Abstract

This article examines the health status of manual scavengers in India, who still work in the dangerous job of the cleaning human waste manually despite its prohibition under Indian law. The article highlights severe health issues faced by these workers including respiratory and skin diseases, musculoskeletal problems and significant mental health issues due to social stigma.

Keywords

Manual Scavenging, Occupational Health, Sanitation Workers, Health Risks, Government Initiatives