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Safety First in the Solid Waste Industry

SWANA is dedicated to supporting and advancing efforts to reduce accidents and injuries in the waste collection industry. We are committed to fostering a culture of safety across the waste and resource management industry through resources, training, initiatives, collaborations, and advocacy.

SWANA Safety Initiatives

Safety Awards

Presented annually at RCon™, SWANA Safety Awards honor safety best practices and successes.

Learn more about SWANA Safety Awards.

Safety Awards

Safety Resources

SWANA delivers a variety of safety resources that address top issues facing the industry, including guidelines for developing lithium battery management practices. 

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Lithium-ion Batteries

Batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, present significant challenges for collection, recycling, and disposal due to the potential for hazardous reactions. SWANA launched a Lithium-Ion Battery Workgroup to focus on the issue and has developed several resources.

View lithium-ion battery information and resources. 

Safety Leaders

  • SWANA Safety Ambassadors serve as safety leaders in all 47 SWANA Chapters in the United States and Canada. 
  • The SWANA Safety Committee guides SWANA’s safety programs, resources, and initiatives in collaboration with SWANA staff and Safety Ambassadors. 
Colorado Chapter Safety Outreach 2025

Safety First

Safety First is a weekly newsletter with safety tips to share at meetings and for posting around your workplace. 

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Hauler Outreach

Share SWANA resources by hosting a Hauler Safety Outreach event.

Download Hauler Outreach Materials.

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Safety Pledge

Take the SWANA Safety Pledge to show your commitment to protecting yourself and others from harm every day.

Take the SWANA Safety Pledge. 

Safety Pledge

5 to Stay Alive

SWANA has a safety campaign of five simple tips to help solid waste workers stay safe on the job.

View the 5 to Stay Alive Safety Tips. 

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American National Standards for Waste and Recycling

American National Standards (ANSs) applicable to Equipment Technology and Operations for Wastes and Recyclable Materials.

Purchase ANS ASC Z245 Standards. 

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Safety Training

SWANA has partnered with Blue Ridge Services, Inc. to provide comprehensive safety training for solid waste industry workers and operators. 

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Share Your Safety Topic

We invite you to share your insights and ideas on safety topics for SWANA to explore!

Your perspective and expertise can benefit all SWANA members. Submit your safety topic idea today and be a part of the solution.

Safety Blog Posts and Related Events

Safety Blog Posts

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September 05, 2025

From hurricanes to wildfires, emergencies come in many forms. This National Preparedness Month, find tips and tools to help you stay ready.

Safety First: Hurricanes

August 29, 2025

From debris to downed power lines, hurricanes bring hazards that impact recovery efforts. Get the guidance you need to stay safe on the job.

Safety First: Preventing Backovers

August 22, 2025

Read our tips to prevent common and deadly backover incidents from happening to you or your coworkers.

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