A waste collector, also known as a garbage collector, is a public or private employee involved in collecting and disposing of municipal solid waste (MSW) and recyclable waste from households, industries, and other collection centers to be sent to facilities that manage, treat, and process waste. Waste collectors utilize specific waste collection vehicles or garbage trucks to effectively and efficiently perform their work.
What are the Duties of a Waste Collector?
Waste collectors typically work in twos, one driving the truck and the other collecting the waste. Prior to mounting the trash bin to the hydraulic lift, the waste collector must segregate waste that should not be included in the collection. The job of a waste collector can be physically demanding due to the need for lifting and hauling. More advanced garbage trucks can lift large garbage bins without help from the waste collector.
A waste collector works through any type of weather and usually starts their work early in the day. A waste collector is exposed to hazards like foul odor, dust, chemicals, falling debris, dog attacks, smoke, and conditions that may develop due to waste handling.
What are the Advantages of Being a Waste Collector?
Having the job of a waste collector offers the following advantages:
- Stable income
- Job security
- Essential and valuable work
- Physical exercises
- Additional benefits, health insurance, retirement plan, life insurance
What are the Health Hazards in Being a Waste Collector?
In the 2010 report by CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees), the job of a waste collector was dubbed as “one of the most hazardous jobs”. According to the 2002 IRSST report by Lavoie and colleagues, the top health and safety hazards that a waste collector experiences are:
- Ergonomic injuries like back strain
- Cuts from materials like glass
- Exposure to microorganisms
These hazards can be minimized by observing proper safety precautions such as wearing the appropriate protective clothing. Waste collectors should also have updated immunizations for hepatitis and tetanus. The practice of proper biomechanics will also limit the incidence of injuries.
