Initiatives
SWANA has a strong commitment to safety and is determined to help move the waste collection industry off of the federal government’s list of 10 most dangerous jobs and reduce accidents and injuries. These safety initiatives represent part of that effort.
SWANA recognizes that, in the solid waste industry safety matters! #SWANASafety
2023 Safety Award Winners announced.
Safety First is a weekly newsletter with safety tips for tailgate meetings and posting around your workplace. Available only to SWANA members, it is a resource on a variety of industry safety topics.
Solid waste collection workers are receiving the same safety resources from SWANA at Hauler Safety Outreach events across North America.
Take the SWANA Safety Pledge to show your commitment to protecting yourself and others from harm every day.
SWANA Safety Ambassadors serve as safety leaders in all 47 chapters in the United States and Canada.
SWANA has a safety campaign of five simple tips to help solid waste workers stay safe on the job.
Slow Down to Get Around is a national safety campaign reminding motorists to drive more carefully when near waste and recycling collection vehicles.
American National Standards (ANSs) applicable to Equipment Technology and Operations for Wastes and Recyclable Materials.
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April 10, 2024
SWANA Comments on EPA Proposed Regulations Regarding PFAS Designation as Hazardous Constituents
SWANA supports the goal of addressing per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination and holding manufacturers accountable.
January 10, 2024
SWANA Statement on US BLS 2022 National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries
The US Department of Labor BLS released its 2022 National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries.
By: Robert Craggs and Veronica Roof
Regardless of the times, the solid waste and recycling industry is one of the most dangerous industries in the U.S. Add in the threat of the coronavirus pandemic, and the risks are now more complex than ever. To create a safe environment in today's world, safety planning requires a blend of existing best practices to prevent “normal” or traditional hazards, as well as new practices due to the pandemic. Below are some strategies to implement to create safer environments within solid waste and recycling operations.
The public should play a role in minimizing risks and promoting the safety of solid waste and recycling personnel. Communicate to the public what they can do to keep the solid waste and recycling personnel safe including placing solid waste and recyclables in designated bins, cans, or carts to minimize contact with personnel. Communities are educating the public via local news, social media, signage on vehicles and outreach campaigns.
These efforts to support the health and safety of solid waste and recycling workers are critical to continuing operations and providing the services our communities depend on. Additionally, such efforts can help improve staff morale, resulting in a consistent workforce dedicated to meeting customer needs.
Robert Craggs is a national technical services leader for solid waste and resource recovery at Burns & McDonnell. He serves as division representative for the Planning and Management Technical Division for the Advisory Board for the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA). He also is a board member for the Recycling Association of Minnesota.
Veronica Roof is a senior compliance specialist at Burns & McDonnell, specializing in solid waste planning, management, and recycling and resource recovery. She serves as the director of the Communication, Education and Marketing Technical Division for SWANA.