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Journal of Industrial Safety Engineering Original Research

Smart Drainage Cleaning System: A Technological Intervention for Occupational Health and Urban Sanitation

Abstract

Manual drainage maintenance in urban environments remains a hazardous task, exposing sanitation workers to toxic gases, infections, and life-threatening accidents. This paper presents the development of an automated 12V Smart Drainage Cleaning System designed to eliminate manual scavenging and enhance cleaning efficiency. The robotic model operates on a 12V DC power supply, integrating an ultrasonic sensor for real time obstacle detection and automated navigation within narrow drainage pathways. The core cleaning mechanism consists of a high torque motor-driven chain and sprocket system. This mechanism rotates a series of lifter plates that effectively filter solid debris such as plastic bottles and polythene while allowing liquid waste to flow through. The collected waste is elevated and deposited into an onboard storage tank. To prevent mechanical overload and ensure timely disposal, a load cell is incorporated to continuously monitor the weight of the accumulated waste, signaling the operator or halting the system when maximum capacity is reached. Controlled by a dedicated motor driver, the robot offers a portable and cost effective solution for proactive sewage management. Experimental results indicate that the system significantly reduces human contact with hazardous materials and provides a more consistent cleaning frequency compared to traditional manual methods. This research demonstrates a sustainable, sensor driven approach to urban sanitation that prioritizes worker safety and environmental hygiene.

Keywords

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