Yes and no. If the unit is not overused, then this is a 5 minute procedure, which will not bring you into direct contact with human waste. If the unit has been overused and you arrive to find that the maintenance is overdue, then the basket at the front of the system will be more full than it should be and it will be more difficult to swap the baskets. You will not come into direct contact with the waste, but some people might find the idea of this operation unpleasant. (Sort of like changing the nappies of someone else's baby). Please click here to reference the maintenance guide for further details.