SOLVED. Sci-Fi short story set on space station with plumbing problem, family who would normally fix it are on strike in protest at social status as "untouchables". [s]

[Zaracat]

Sc-Fi short story in a book of collected stories, from 1960's-1970's? By well known sci-fi author can't remember who though. Set on a space station where the plumbing/waste management has broken. The family who have the hereditary job of managing and repairing the system have gone on strike to protest their status as untouchables/outcasts who are socially ostracised by the rest of the population as a result of their "unclean" profession. Strikebreaker called in to fix problem.

(view spoiler)[After he fixes the problem, the strikebreaker is dismayed to find that he has now become an outcast too; is well paid for the job but has to leave station without seeing or touching anyone (hide spoiler)]

[Bargle]

That's Strikebreaker by Isaac Asimov. Originally published as Male Strikebreaker by an editor who couldn't resist tinkering with stories.

Note to self: correct answer.

[Banjomike]

Bargle wrote: "That's Strikebreaker by Isaac Asimov. Originally published as Male Strikebreaker by an editor who couldn't resist tinkering with stories."

That would be Robert A.W. Lowndes.

[Zaracat]

Thanks!