Work safety in waste collection and transport

Abstract

The risk of accidents in waste collection and transport in Finland was studied by safety analysis. Systematic investigations were made of different working situations and methods and the equipment for collection and transportation. In addition, use was made of statistics on the accidents that had occurred. The accident rates for waste transport vehicle drivers were three times as high as the average for industry. Several deficiencies in work safety were found in all work stages. The largest number of accidents occurred in handling waste bins with a volume of 600 1. The parts of the body injured were mostly the back, feet and arms. The number and severity of the accidents could be reduced by improving the equipment for waste collection and transport, the location of waste containers, the working methods, the instructions given to households, the occupational health services and the guidelines. The location of waste containers, bins and refuse sacks should receive attention right at the planning stage of house construction. Specific requirements should be made regarding the condition of waste collection equipment and fenced spaces for the bins and sacks. Deficiencies were also found in the ergonomics of the waste collection vehicles. The use of protective clothing should be promoted.