Day of Justice for Janitors

June 15. For most people, it's an ordinary day. But for those who go out with a broom and a shovel every morning to clean our streets of garbage, this day could be a celebration. An unofficial, but well-deserved one. Day of Justice for Janitors. A celebration that they dream of, but which is not yet on the calendar. On this date, we want to remind everyone: a janitor is not just a "man with a broom," but a guardian of cleanliness whose shoulders bear the health of millions. But is it fair that their labor is paid in coins, and respect is even less? Let's figure it out.

History of the Profession: From Night Watchmen to Utility Workers

The profession of a janitor has existed as long as cities have. In Ancient Rome, street cleaners were called "scourers." In medieval Europe, garbage was thrown out of windows, and it was not until the 19th century that the first organized cleanliness services appeared. In the Russian Empire, janitors were not only cleaners but also watchmen who kept order. After the revolution, they were renamed "sanitation workers." Today, a janitor is a multi-tasking employee: sweeps, gathers leaves, clears snow, removes informal dumps, cleans bins, and sometimes even paints benches. Without them, cities would be submerged in dirt within a week.

Portrait of a Modern Janitor: Who Are They

The average age of a janitor in Russia is 55-60 years old. It is mainly women (60-70%), because the salary is low, and men move to more lucrative fields. Immigrants from CIS countries also make up a significant part. Janitors work 6 days a week, 8 hours a day, often outdoors in any weather. In winter — cold, in summer — heat and gnats. Equipment: broom, shovel, garbage bags, sometimes a cart. Some management companies have equipment (vacuum cleaners, tractors), but more often than not, the janitor relies on manual labor.

Salary and Working Conditions: Where Is Justice

The average salary of a janitor in Russia in 2026 is 15-25 thousand rubles a month (up to 30-40 thousand in Moscow). This is less than the minimum subsistence level in some regions. At the same time, the work is dangerous: you can slip on ice, cut yourself on glass, be poisoned by exhaust fumes. No social package? Formally, there is one, but sick leaves are often not paid, and vacations are only mandatory 28 days. Pensions for janitors are generally low. Some work unofficially, without a labor contract.

Public Attitude: From "I'll do it" to "Thank you"

In the public consciousness, a janitor is a second-rate character. Passersby often throw cigarettes and cans past the bin, thinking: "The janitor will clean it up." Sometimes children and teenagers tease. But there is another side: some residents thank, give tea for the New Year, sign cards. Sometimes posts appear on social networks saying "Thank you to the janitor who cleans our courtyard in the snow." However, these are exceptions. On the Day of Justice for Janitors, we want to call on everyone: respect other people's labor, do not litter.

Where Is Justice in Pay? Comparison with Other Countries

In Germany, a janitor earns from 2000 euros a month, in Sweden — 2500, in the USA — 15 dollars an hour. In Russia, the payment is 5-10 times lower. At the same time, the cost of living in large cities is comparable to European levels. Paradox: in the West, a janitor is an esteemed profession, in Russia — "unprestigious." In the Soviet era, janitors were respected, received housing, benefits. Now this is forgotten.

What Can Everyone Do for Justice

Do not throw garbage past the bin. If you see a janitor, say "hello," smile. In winter, offer a cup of hot tea (in a thermos). If you know, give a box of chocolates on the janitor's birthday. Write a statement to the management company asking to increase the salary of janitors (if you are a resident of the house). Support initiatives for the automation of cleaning (new vacuum cleaners, washers). Do not walk past if you see that the janitor is being deceived. Organize a volunteer day to help the janitor on the Day of Justice.

Legislation: Rights of Janitors

By law, a janitor has the right to: an annual paid vacation, a sick leave, pension contributions, special clothing, a lunch break. Sometimes in practice, rights are violated. You can complain to the labor inspection, the prosecutor's office. However, the fear of dismissal prevents this. Organize a trade union? In large cities, there is a trade union of utility workers, but its influence is small.

How to Become a Janitor If There Is No Choice

If you are looking for a job as a janitor, check if there is official registration, a social package. Do not agree to a salary in cash. Demand a labor contract. Find out if equipment is provided. In Moscow and Petersburg, janitors sometimes receive housing in dormitories. Before applying, study reviews about the company.

Prospects: Robots Will Not Replace Janitors

In 2026, automatic cleaning machines appeared, but they only clean large areas (parks, stadiums). In courtyards with narrow passages, stairs, flower beds, a person is indispensable. Therefore, the profession of a janitor will remain. But justice requires: an increase in wages, improvement in conditions, respect.

June 15 is an arbitrary date. But if every year we thank the janitors on this day and think about justice, perhaps the situation will change. Do not walk past a man with a broom. Say "thank you" to him. And do not litter. This is the day of justice.

Permanent link to this publication: