



Many refuse collection methods have eroded over a number of years, with the proper equipment and training not provided on the job by experienced operatives, who should highlight some bad health and safety practices along with practical advice on how to do the job. Endorsement Bonds believe this sector deserves better guidance on how the job can be done more safely; intimating the authorities on some of the hazards involved and recommend equipments, which will reduce the risk from these hazards. How refuse is collected have a bearing on the type of hazards encountered. The majority involve some form of manual handling and open collection trucks. These open trucks are still being used in many areas and the principal difficulty with these is exposing the workers and members of the public to major health risks. Endorsement Bonds believes that no one should be unnecessarily injured or suffer ill health at work. The collection of refuse is often taken for granted in our society. People’s expectations are that they put the rubbish out and within a day it’s gone – with little or no thought to how it is collected. The attitude is often one of “I pay my tax and that’s just part of the service.” For those who collect rubbish however, the reality of the situation is very often different. Refuse collection is a statutory duty as it is an obvious public health hazard. It is also a very hazardous task to undertake. |