Trash collection and disposal seems like it should be a fairly benign activity, but sadly trash rooms and compactors have been the sites of a number of serious injuries and fatalities over the years.
Compactor Accidents Can Have Tragic Results
One of the more devastating accidents occurred at Grocery Outlet in Redwood, CA. Mendie Udo, a 43-year-old janitor who had worked at the store for several years, was discovered inside the trash compactor by another employee. Responding firefighters declared him dead at the scene.
Although there were no witnesses, a spokesperson for Cal/OSHA said there was no doubt that Udo was crushed in the compactor and there were no signs of foul play. Based on the position of the body, authorities speculate that Udo leaned into the machine.
Enforce Compactor Safety Rules in Your Workplace
Any employee who uses a compactor should be thoroughly trained in its proper operation. Here are some other safety measures that should be implemented in your workplace:
• The operating key should never be left in an unattended machine.
• Always examine the inside of the compactor’s bin before starting.
• Employees should never climb into the compactor or put any body parts inside the bin.
• Turn off the power and use long-handled tools to clear jams.
• Point of operation guards should be firmly in place at all times.
Prevent Workplace Injuries with a WasteCaddy from DJ Products
Transporting dumpsters and waste bins to the trash room can also cause injuries. Visit our website to learn how our battery-powered WasteCaddy can improve efficiency and cut down on workplace injuries and costly medical claims.
