Garbage & Recycling Trucks

Refuse and recycling collection is consistently one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Workers are struck by their own trucks and by passing traffic, caught in compaction equipment, and injured by what’s inside the bags.

• Sanitation workers
• Drivers

Being struck

• Backing kills. Avoid backing whenever possible. When you must, use a spotter in view of the driver, backup cameras and alarms.
• Drivers: know where every helper is before moving. If you can’t see them, stop.
• Helpers: stay in the driver’s mirror view; never walk behind a backing truck.
• Traffic: wear Class 3 hi-vis, work from the curb side, and watch for drivers passing the truck.

Riding steps

Industry safety standards (ANSI Z245.1) limit riding on rear steps to short distances at low speed, generally no more than about 10 mph and 0.2 miles, and never while the truck is backing. Hold on with both hands, and don’t jump on or off while it’s moving.

Compaction equipment

• Know where the emergency stop buttons are.
• Stay clear of the tailgate when it’s raised; block it before working under it.
• Keep clear of automated arms and lift mechanisms.

What’s in the bag

• Sharps: needles and broken glass. Wear puncture-resistant gloves and hold bags away from your body.
• Chemicals and batteries: lithium-ion batteries in trash cause truck fires. Watch for smoke from the hopper.
• Heavy loads: test the weight before lifting, and use the cart tipper whenever possible. See Lifting & Ergonomics.

Other hazards

• Heat: water, rest and shade on summer routes. See Heat Illness
• Slips on wet, icy or leaf-covered curbs
• Dog bites: watch for loose dogs and report them
• Overhead power lines when using front loaders and roll-off hoists
• Fatigue on early-morning routes

Last updated: October 2, 2026