Safety Measures To Take While Working in a Landfill

Landfills face problems like the leaking of toxins and greenhouse gases. Working in a landfill puts your safety and health at serious risk. There are many safety measures to take while working in a landfill. Read this article before applying for that job.

Commit to Being Safe

First and foremost, you must commit to safety protocols. Though they may sometimes seem unnecessary, you could put yourself and others at risk if you don’t follow them. Encourage all employees and co-workers to study the protocols to stay up to date on new safety measures.

Use Your PPE

You must always wear your personal protective equipment. Skipping the hard hat or respiratory mask could be detrimental to your health.  Even if the PPE is uncomfortable at times, it’s doing its job to protect you in the long run.

Remain Aware of Your Surroundings

Landfills are unpredictable, and the environment around you is constantly changing. As you go about your day, make a note of possible areas that could be dangerous and report any unsafe substances or items. Watch out for co-workers, and be aware of where you are always.

Use Industrial Equipment Carefully

No matter how safe your equipment is, operating drill rigs or other machines at a landfill can get chaotic with so much going on around you. Make eye contact with employees surrounding your work area so that you know they are aware of you. Keep up with proper machine maintenance and always wear your seatbelt.

Cultivate an Emergency Plan

In case of an emergency, you’ll want to prepare. Talk with your employer about any specific safety measures you should take while working in the landfill. You want to stay up to date on all procedures. Plans for emergencies should be in plain view and easily accessible.

Utilize Lock-Out Tag-Out

Lock-out tag-out is when you shut down a machine and lock the electricity properly. This ensures you remain safe while working on equipment. It eliminates the possibility of other workers accidentally turning it back on while you have a body part inside.

Staying safe in a messy environment like a landfill is extremely important. If you do not follow protocols, you cannot do the job correctly. Stay up to date and implement your own safety measures to create a safe working environment for yourself and others.