2019 SWANApalooza

Solid Waste Safety Practices in Dynamic Environments (Room 200)

Solid waste collection and processing presents many unique challenges at even the best of times. Large machinery, a dynamic work environment and a constant flow of diverse materials create many safety concerns that this session will explore.

You’ll learn about a first-of-its-kind study by the Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF) and SWANA that surveyed municipal recycling facility (MRF) owners on needlestick occurrences at their facilities. This led to a groundbreaking new report on a topic that has been little studied. You’ll then find out how the City of Toronto has addressed litter collection at night, in particular new challenges around collecting materials near safe injection sites, parks and laneways. Finally, you’ll get an overview of best safety practices for MRFs and transfer stations from an industry leader at E.L. Harvey. This session will ensure you and your organization can provide a safer work environment for everyone managing materials, no matter the circumstance.