Safety alliance aims to reduce workplace injuries in waste and recycling sectors
OSHA, SWANA, and NWRA recommit to reducing occupational health risks by sharing resources and training materials
The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), and the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) renewed their alliance to improve safety and health outcomes for workers in the waste and recycling industries.
Through this three-year agreement, the organizations will collaborate on initiatives to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses by sharing resources, training materials, and best practices focused on the most pressing hazards in the industry. These hazards include needlestick injuries, slips, trips, and falls, heat and cold stress, and other occupational health risks faced by solid waste and recycling workers.
The Alliance will place special emphasis on outreach to small- and medium-sized employers and will use data on injuries, illnesses, and hazard exposure to guide awareness campaigns and training efforts. The agreement also encourages cross-participation in events hosted by each organization to expand the reach of safety and health messaging.
Building a culture of health and safety for every worker
"We value the role of collaboration in keeping our workers safe," stated SWANA CEO Amy Lestition Burke, MA, FASAE, CAE. "This Alliance provides the opportunity for SWANA and NWRA to work closely with OSHA on sharing and developing critical resources. Together, we are building a culture of safety that ensures every worker thrives and returns home each day."
"By signing this agreement, our organizations are demonstrating a continued commitment to making the waste and recycling industry safer," said Michael E. Hoffman, president and CEO of NWRA. "This renewed Alliance allows us to work together with OSHA to deliver practical tools and guidance that protect the essential workers who keep our communities clean and safe."
By renewing this partnership, OSHA, NWRA, and SWANA reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that safety remains a top priority for the waste and recycling workforce.
