Green Blog
RESILIENT RECYCLER: 5th Most Dangerous Job
Refuse and recycling work is the 5th most dangerous job in the US (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Can you imagine a big blue recycling truck racing down the road trailing flames? It's not all that uncommon of an occurrence. A tower of water at West Van Materials Recovery Center is quick at hand for putting out fires that start in trucks, rubbish piles, and on the sorting line.
Many of these fires are started by things people have tossed in their recycling or garbage: batteries, electronics, fuel, chemicals, and other household hazardous waste. It's important to dispose of these materials in a responsible way, not just for the environment, but for worker safety as well.
Additionally, transportation incidents account for 40% of all workplace fatalities. Our drivers have to navigate their massive trucks through tight areas, so please be cautious and patient around trucks on their routes.
Recycling A to Z (www.recyclingA-Z.com) is not just for recyclables; find out how to properly dispose of anything! You can also access Recycling A to Z on the Recycle Right App as well as receive alerts and schedules for your curbside pick-up.
Help protect our recycling drivers and workers by recycling right!
- Carts should be placed at least 3 feet apart and at a distance from cars and other obstacles
- Batteries—NEVER IN your recycling cart or garbage can. Place them in a clear, gallon-bag visibly on top of your recycling cart or take them to stores that collect them.
- Motor Oil should be transferred to a clear gallon-jug and placed beside recycling at the curbside
- Glass bottles should be contained in your glass recycling bin. Do not set out broken glass or large panes as these are dangerous for workers to handle.
- Electronics can be dropped off at designated areas at transfer stations or various stores. Search by specific items on Recycling A to Z.
- Household Hazardous Waste (paints and solvents, automotive products, cleaners, poisons and pesticides, propane cylinders) should be taken to a Transfer Station or other drop off locations (https://www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/household-hazardous-waste)
- Multi-Family Residents check with your property manager for information on recycling at your residence or check for alternative recycling locations on Recycling A to Z.
RECYCLING DONE RIGHT!
