WorkSafe inspections highlight dangers associated with waste transportation

WorkSafe Victoria is implementing a comprehensive inspection initiative across the state to reduce fatalities and injuries within the waste and recycling transportation sector.

The workplace safety agency has announced that inspectors will commence visits to identified workplaces within the sector starting this week. Their focus will be on addressing safety concerns related to loading and unloading procedures, vehicle maintenance, and load securing measures.

According to data from WorkSafe, there have been eight fatalities among truck drivers and garbage collectors involved in waste and recycling transport since 2019. The majority of these fatalities have resulted from incidents involving vehicles rolling away or crashes.

Over the last five years, over 400 truck drivers and garbage collectors within the waste and recycling industry have sustained severe injuries necessitating workers' compensation.

For more information, visit the WorkSafe Victoria website.