Most waste management companies are battling with environmental responsibility and sustainability topics but one factor that keeps up at night the most is safety.
Despite stringent protocols and a focus on hazard prevention, near misses—incidents narrowly avoiding potential harm or oversight—can still occur. Recognizing and addressing these near misses are crucial steps toward enhancing safety protocols, minimizing risks, and ensuring the well-being of both workers and the surrounding community. Here are nine common near misses in waste management and recycling:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Near misses involving slips, trips, and falls may occur when potential hazards such as wet surfaces, debris on walkways, or uneven terrain are identified and remediated before causing injuries to workers. Implementing regular housekeeping routines, providing appropriate footwear, and ensuring well-maintained walking surfaces are essential for preventing slip-related incidents.
Struck-by Accidents
Near misses related to struck-by accidents may involve incidents where potential risks, such as falling objects, moving machinery, or vehicles in operation, are identified and mitigated before causing injuries to workers or bystanders. Implementing proper signage, establishing designated pedestrian zones, and providing training on equipment operation and traffic management are crucial for preventing struck-by incidents.
Chemical Exposure Risks
Near misses involving chemical exposure may occur when potential risks, such as spills, leaks, or improper handling of hazardous materials, are identified and managed before causing harm to workers or the environment. Implementing proper storage procedures, providing training on chemical handling, and conducting regular inspections of storage areas are essential for preventing chemical exposure incidents.
Fire Hazards
Near misses related to fire hazards may involve incidents where potential risks, such as combustible materials, ignition sources, or inadequate fire prevention measures, are identified and addressed before causing fires or explosions. Implementing fire prevention protocols, providing training on fire extinguisher usage, and conducting fire drills are crucial for preventing fire-related incidents.
Equipment Malfunctions
Near misses involving equipment malfunctions may occur when potential issues with machinery, such as faulty conveyors, jammed compactors, or malfunctioning shredders, are identified and rectified before causing accidents or production delays. Implementing regular equipment inspections, conducting preventive maintenance, and providing training on equipment troubleshooting are essential for preventing equipment-related incidents.
Falls from Heights
Near misses related to falls from heights may involve incidents where potential risks, such as unsecured ladders, unprotected edges, or inadequate fall protection measures, are identified and mitigated before causing falls or injuries to workers. Implementing proper fall prevention measures, providing training on ladder safety and fall protection equipment, and using guardrails or safety nets are crucial for preventing fall-related incidents.
Inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Near misses involving inadequate PPE may occur when potential risks, such as exposure to airborne contaminants, sharp objects, or physical hazards, are identified and addressed before causing injuries or health problems to workers. Implementing a comprehensive PPE program, providing appropriate PPE for specific tasks, and conducting regular PPE inspections are essential for preventing PPE-related incidents.
Traffic Accidents at Collection Sites
Near misses involving traffic accidents may occur at waste collection sites when potential risks, such as vehicle congestion, blind spots, or pedestrian movement, are identified and managed before causing collisions or injuries to workers or the public. Implementing traffic management plans, using traffic control devices, and providing training on safe vehicle operation are crucial for preventing traffic-related incidents.
Electrical Hazards
Near misses involving electrical hazards may occur when potential risks, such as exposed wiring, overloaded circuits, or defective electrical equipment, are identified and remediated before causing electric shocks or fires. Implementing proper electrical safety protocols, providing training on electrical hazards, and conducting regular inspections of electrical systems are essential for preventing electrical incidents.
Final thoughts
By recognizing and addressing these common near misses, waste management and recycling facilities can enhance safety practices, minimize risks, and fulfill their commitment to protecting both workers and the environment. Emphasizing proactive risk management, investing in employee training and safety equipment, and fostering a culture of safety awareness are essential for preventing near misses and ensuring the continued success of waste management operations. Through collective efforts and a dedication to safety excellence, the waste management industry can continue to operate efficiently and responsibly while safeguarding the well-being of all involved.
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