Do you ever take the trash? When was the last time you thought about the hazards of the job?

Garbage, it’s not pretty but it’s one workplace feature that almost every industry has. And with it, a looming workplace hazard for everyone involved.

One of the main ways that safety comes in to question when dealing with garbage removal is simply due to negligence. Many times people underestimate the dangers that exist when emptying garbage and waste bins and open themselves up to easily avoidable injuries.

The next time it’s your turn to take out the trash think safety first and take the task at hand seriously.

If you work in an industry with materials that are dangerous or contaminant, make sure that your waste removal procedures follow compliance and that all necessary information is posted in a prominent place to remind staff to observe the necessary protocol.

Here are some great preventative measures to take to ensure no one is injured as a result of taking out the trash:

• When handling garbage always wear gloves.
• To prevent injuries due to heavy bags, place a false bottom (a cardboard box) at the bottom of the garbage can.
• Tie and remove bags when they are half full. This will keep garbage bags at a manageable size and weight.
• Never push down or compact garbage. This could result in impaling a hand on unseen objects.
• Test the bag load before attempting to carry it. This will prevent back strain.
• When lifting always use both hands. This will protect your wrists and stabilize the load.
• Each bag should be no more than 44lbs. You should be able to comfortably carry one bag in each hand without strain.
• Ask for help any time you feel a bag is too heavy or too large to carry or lift safely.
• When removing trash, scan the contents and the surface of the bag for sharp or pointy objects.
• Minimize the amount of lifting done above the shoulders. Use a step stool or ladder when throwing garbage into a dumpster.