LOOK GOOD, STAY SAFE - PK SAFETY 10 SAFETY TIPS HEALTH & SAFETY in the


waste and recycling sector is a hot topic. In 2016 HSE reports there were an estimated 6000 cases of self-reported work-related illnesses. This is 4.7% of the


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Getting wet – Working outdoors in the UK means that, at some time, you will be working in the rain. Getting wet and cold can lead to illness. A greater risk


is the reduced level of concentration, which increases the chance of having an accident. Choosing the right waterproof clothing for the amount of rain exposure provides necessary protection.


Wet feet – Having prolonged periods with wet feet is a very uncomfortable experience and can even result in Trench Foot. The solution is Waterproof Safety


Boots, ideally a design that also allows the foot to breathe as sweaty feet can lead to other problems such as athlete’s foot.


Crushed toes and feet – The nature of waste collection means that there


is always a chance of heavy items falling whether from a skip or picking belt. All workers should wear suitable Safety Shoes or Safety Boots with a protective toe cap.


Visibility – When collecting waste on a main road, whether in a loaded skip or in


a green wheelie bin, it means being exposed to traffic. High visibility clothing ensures people are clearly seen when standing in a busy road.


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dust masks prevent inhalation, but consideration is needed for the eyes and the use of Safety Glasses or Safety Goggles. PPE should be used even when delivering waste to the plant.


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Dermatitis – When pulling a green bin, attaching skip chains, or sorting waste, most people wear


Safety Gloves to protect the hands. However, hand protection is not just about wearing the correct Safety Gloves. Protecting the hands is a three-stage process of Protection (applying barrier cream at the start of the day), Care (regular washing with a soap cleanser, and Moisturise (using a cream at the end of the working day).


workforce, compared with 3.2% for all industries. Whether collecting, processing, sorting or disposing of waste, there are ways to make improvements.


Hand injury from cuts and needle penetration – Unfortunately, this is a common hazard faced by waste collectors and sorters on a daily basis. Such an


injury can result in infections such as hepatitis or infection from a blood- borne virus (BBV). Specially designed Safety Gloves, Gauntlets and Protective Sleeves protect against such injuries.


Dust – Waste & recycling operations are dusty, especially in the summer. Dust can contain hazardous particles. Simple


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Noise – Workers in the waste and recycling industry are constantly exposed to background noise. This could be from traffic on a main road, the


engine of a waste collection vehicle, or machinery in a recycling plant. Due to the environment and communication, the ear protection needs to be designed so that the wearer can hear what is happening around them and can take the form of simple plugs or ear defenders that cover the whole ear.


Leg protection – When collecting, carrying, or sorting waste, the legs can be exposed to injury. This could be simply due to a bag knocking against the side of the leg. To


prevent cuts and injury, it is necessary to wear suitable heavy-duty trousers.


weather. Being exposed to extreme cold for a prolonged period can result in a lack of concentration or even hyperthermia. Even short periods of working in the cold can result in a miserable working life. The best way to stay warm is to wear many thin layers of clothing, using thermal vests and tops when appropriate, and not just one thick heavy garment.


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PK SAFETY: For further info about health and safety in the waste and recycling sector, contact Obe Nunn on 01443 741999 or email: obe@pksafetyuk.com


Getting cold – Working outdoors in January means facing the cold


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