Plan the route around people
Assessment should identify narrow streets, schools, crossings and busy pedestrian areas. Changing a collection time or location may avoid conflicts. The route should reduce reversing and the need for collectors to cross repeatedly between opposite sides of the road.
Roadworks, parked vehicles and changed bin locations can invalidate the planned route. The crew needs a way to report problems and stop a collection that cannot proceed safely. Meeting the schedule does not justify improvising a dangerous vehicle manoeuvre.
Control reversing movements
First eliminate or minimise reversing through route planning and vehicle selection. Cameras, mirrors, detectors and alarms help but cannot guarantee that an area is clear. A clear system is needed for checking people’s positions before movement begins.
Where a reversing assistant is required, that person must be trained and stay outside the vehicle’s path. Everyone needs to understand the agreed signals. Losing communication or visibility requires stopping rather than assuming the assistant remains in a safe position.
Keep clear during collection
The bin and its attachment points must be compatible with the lifter and in sound condition. Both bystanders and crew members need to remain outside the moving container’s reach. A defective attachment can cause a container to fall or be ejected.
Vehicle access needs maintained steps and handholds, with boarding and alighting only when stationary. Crew transport must follow the authorised design and applicable rules. A riding step must not be interpreted as general permission to travel outside the cab.
Check before leaving the depot
Checks should cover brakes, tyres, visibility, lighting and auxiliary equipment. Bin-lifter safety devices matter too. A safety-critical defect requires correction before departure; writing it on a checklist does not permit work to continue as though no defect exists.
Inspection of work equipment must be supported by maintenance and follow-up of reported problems. Complete the assessment with handling, sharp waste, hygiene and exposure to road traffic. Route or vehicle changes require communication to the crew before they are put into use.
