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Occupational Safety Document for the Waste Collection Industry provides detailed guidance and protective measures for employees in the waste collection industry. This document addresses potential risks, necessary personal protective equipment, and safe work procedures to minimize occupational accidents. Designed to raise awareness and safety skills, this document is a valuable resource to protect the health and safety of workers in the waste collection industry.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE WASTE COLLECTION INDUSTRY

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some Occupational Accidents in the Waste Collection Industry

The waste collection industry is a necessary and indispensable job in modern society, helping to keep the living environment fresh and clean. However, this is also an industry with many risks and dangers for workers. Below are some typical occupational accidents that have occurred in this industry, illustrating the level of danger and the challenges that waste collection workers face every day.

Traffic accidents while working on the streets

One of the biggest risks for waste collection workers is traffic accidents. Due to the nature of the job, they have to work on the streets, often at night or early in the morning when visibility is limited. There have been many cases where garbage trucks have been hit by other vehicles, causing serious accidents. For example, in 2021, a worker in Hanoi was hit by a car while collecting garbage on the street, resulting in serious injuries.

Risks from hazardous waste

Waste is not just household waste, but also includes many types of hazardous waste such as needles, broken glass, toxic chemicals, and radioactive materials. Waste collection workers often have to come into direct contact with these materials without the necessary personal protective equipment. A typical case is a worker in Ho Chi Minh City who was pricked by a needle containing HIV while sorting garbage, causing serious health and psychological consequences.

Mechanical and physical injuries

The job of collecting garbage requires great physical labor, which can easily lead to mechanical injuries such as sprains, muscle strains, and back pain. Workers have to perform repetitive movements such as lifting, pulling, and pushing heavy garbage cans. In 2019, a worker in Da Nang suffered a spinal injury from a fall while lifting an overly heavy garbage can, forcing him to take a long leave of absence for treatment.

Risks from fires and explosions

Waste can contain flammable and explosive materials such as gas cylinders, batteries, and chemicals. These materials, if not handled properly, can cause dangerous explosions. In 2020, at a garbage transfer station in Binh Duong, an explosion occurred due to a discarded gas cylinder exploding, seriously injuring three workers.

Impacts of harsh working conditions

Waste collection workers often have to work in harsh weather conditions, from scorching heat to storms and floods. This not only affects their health but also increases the risk of occupational accidents. In 2018, in a central province, a worker fell into a sewer and died while working in stormy conditions, with high water and poor lighting.

Measures to protect workers

To minimize occupational accidents in the waste collection industry, many synchronous measures need to be implemented. First, provide full protective equipment such as gloves, protective clothing, and masks. Second, strengthen occupational safety skills training and provide knowledge on handling hazardous waste. Finally, raise community awareness about waste sorting and proper disposal of hazardous materials.

Occupational accidents in the waste collection industry not only cause damage to the health and lives of workers but also leave serious economic and social consequences. Improving working conditions and strengthening occupational safety protection is an urgent and necessary task to protect our silent heroes.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN WORKING IN THE WASTE COLLECTION INDUSTRY

I. Occupational safety and health for at-source waste collection staff

1. Job characteristics of at-source waste collection

The job of at-source waste collection requires workers to come into direct contact with many different types of waste, including household waste, industrial waste, and construction waste. Each type of waste has its own characteristics and potential hazards. Household waste often includes everyday items and leftover food, which can cause unpleasant odors and attract insects. Workers need to be aware of sharp objects and medical waste mixed in with household waste.

Industrial waste often contains toxic chemicals and industrial materials that require special handling. This waste can be harmful to health if not collected and handled properly. Therefore, workers must be fully equipped with protective equipment and have a firm grasp of safe work procedures when handling industrial waste. A clear understanding of the origin and nature of the waste is extremely important to ensure the safety of both themselves and the surrounding environment.

Construction waste includes materials such as concrete, bricks, wood, and metal. The collection of construction waste requires skills in transporting and handling heavy materials, as well as preventing injuries from sharp debris. Workers need to have the skills to use tools and machinery to ensure efficiency and safety in their work. Mastering safety measures when working with construction waste not only protects workers but also helps maintain a clean and safe working environment.

2. Types of occupational accidents during at-source waste collection

Occupational accidents during the collection of household waste are often related to sharp objects such as needles, glass fragments, and razor blades mixed in with the garbage. Workers are at risk of being pricked or cut, which can lead to infection or disease transmission. In addition, contact with decomposing organic waste can also cause respiratory problems and skin allergies. To prevent this, workers need to use full protective equipment and follow safe work procedures.

During the collection of industrial waste, workers are often at risk of exposure to toxic chemicals and hazardous materials such as asbestos, heavy metals, and flammable substances. These accidents can cause skin diseases, respiratory problems, and even poisoning. To minimize risks, it is necessary to ensure that workers are thoroughly trained in identifying and handling industrial waste, as well as using the correct type of protective equipment.

The collection of construction waste also carries many risks of accidents such as impact, falls from heights, or being crushed by heavy materials such as concrete and bricks. Sharp debris such as nails and metal fragments can cause serious injuries if not handled carefully. Workers need to follow occupational safety regulations, use appropriate protective equipment, and always be careful when working with construction materials. This not only helps to protect their personal health but also ensures the safety of their colleagues and the working environment.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when collecting waste at the source

The causes of occupational accidents when collecting household waste often stem from the careless handling of sharp objects mixed in the trash, such as needles, glass fragments, and razor blades. In addition, the failure to use proper and sufficient personal protective equipment is also a significant cause. The lack of knowledge of safe work procedures and inadequate training on accident prevention measures also contribute to an increased risk of occupational accidents.

In the collection of industrial waste, the main cause of accidents is exposure to toxic chemicals and hazardous materials without appropriate protective measures. The lack of proper identification and classification of industrial waste, along with the failure to follow safety procedures, easily leads to serious accidents. In addition, the failure to regularly inspect and maintain equipment and machinery also increases the risk of occupational accidents.

For construction waste, accidents often occur because workers do not follow safety regulations when working at heights or when transporting heavy materials. Subjectivity and carelessness when working with sharp debris, as well as the failure to use full personal protective equipment, are common causes of accidents. In addition, a poorly organized work environment and a lack of safety supervision also increase the risk of occupational incidents.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents during At-Source Waste Collection

Preventive measures for occupational accidents during household waste collection include the full use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and protective clothing. Workers need to be provided with occupational safety training to recognize and properly handle sharp objects and potential hazardous waste in household waste. Strict adherence to safe work procedures is necessary to minimize the risk of accidents and protect workers’ health.

For industrial waste collection, workers must be equipped with special personal protective equipment such as chemical-resistant masks, heat-resistant gloves, and safety shoes. Occupational safety training should focus on identifying toxic chemicals and how to handle them safely. Adherence to safety procedures and regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and machinery are also important measures to reduce accidents during work.

In construction waste collection, the use of personal protective equipment such as helmets, protective clothing, and nail-proof shoes is essential. Workers need to receive occupational safety training to master safe working skills at heights and how to transport heavy materials effectively. The work environment must be scientifically organized, ensuring that walkways are not obstructed and there is continuous safety supervision to detect and promptly address potential hazards.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for At-Source Waste Collection

Occupational safety regulations for household waste collection require workers to strictly adhere to safe work procedures. This includes the full use of protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and protective clothing to protect against sharp objects and hazardous waste. In addition, workers need to be regularly trained on how to identify and handle potential risks during work.

For industrial waste, occupational safety regulations require the accurate identification and classification of toxic chemicals and hazardous materials. Workers must be fully equipped with specialized protective equipment such as chemical-resistant masks, heat-resistant gloves, and safety shoes. Training and occupational safety training are mandatory to ensure that workers have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle hazardous situations effectively and safely.

In the collection of construction waste, occupational safety regulations include ensuring a clean, unobstructed work environment and continuous safety supervision. Workers need to comply with regulations on the use of helmets, protective clothing, and nail-proof shoes to protect against sharp debris and heavy materials. Occupational safety training is particularly important in equipping workers with safe working skills at heights and in transporting and handling construction materials effectively and safely.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents during At-Source Waste Collection

Handling emergency occupational accidents during household waste collection requires workers to act quickly and accurately. When an accident occurs due to sharp objects or hazardous waste, workers should immediately provide first aid by cleaning the wound under clean water and temporarily bandaging it. Then, they must immediately report to management and contact a medical facility for timely assistance. Adherence to accident reporting procedures and detailed recording of incidents are necessary for investigation and prevention of similar accidents in the future.

For occupational accidents during industrial waste collection, emergency handling includes isolating the accident area to prevent the risk of exposure to toxic chemicals. Injured workers should be given immediate first aid, while using protective measures such as chemical-resistant masks and heat-resistant gloves. Management should report the incident to the safety and rescue team, ensuring that all occupational safety procedures are strictly followed to minimize the impact of the accident.

In the event of an accident during construction waste collection, emergency handling requires first aid for the victim and moving them to a safe place. If a worker is crushed by heavy materials or falls from a height, it is necessary to check and stabilize their health condition before moving them. Calling for an ambulance and reporting the emergency situation to management and the safety team are mandatory. Training and occupational safety training play an important role in equipping workers with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively handle emergency occupational accidents, ensuring maximum safety for themselves and their colleagues.

II. Occupational safety and health for waste transport workers

1. Job characteristics of waste transport

The job of waste transport requires workers to be responsible for moving waste from collection points to transfer stations or final landfills. This job not only requires care and patience but also a deep understanding of how to handle and transport different types of waste. Workers must ensure that the waste is properly sorted and does not spill during transport, keeping the environment clean and safe.

To perform this task, waste transport workers need professional driving skills. They must operate various types of specialized vehicles, from small trucks to large trucks and garbage compactors. Safe driving skills, adherence to traffic safety regulations, and operating vehicles in complex conditions are extremely important. Workers also need to know how to maintain and regularly inspect the vehicles to ensure they are always in good working order, minimizing the risk of breakdowns and accidents.

In addition, waste transport workers need to be thoroughly trained on occupational safety regulations. They must master accident prevention measures and know how to handle emergency situations. A clear understanding of hazardous waste types and how to handle them safely is a key factor in protecting themselves and the community. Through training and practice, workers will be able to perform their jobs effectively, ensuring safety and protecting the environment.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the waste transport process

The types of occupational accidents in the waste transport process often stem from improper handling and transport of waste. Workers may be injured by contact with sharp objects or hazardous chemicals mixed in the waste. Injuries from sharp objects or exposure to toxic chemicals can cause infections and serious health problems. To prevent this, workers need to follow regulations on the use of personal protective equipment and apply proper safety procedures when handling waste.

Traffic accidents are a major risk for waste transport workers. Operating large vehicles on the streets requires professional driving skills and strict adherence to traffic regulations. Accidents can occur due to driver error, unfavorable road conditions, or the carelessness of other road users. To minimize risks, workers need to be trained in traffic safety, maintain the vehicle in good condition, and always be vigilant when operating the vehicle.

In addition, waste transport workers also face the risk of accidents from loading, unloading, and moving heavy waste. These activities can cause musculoskeletal injuries, back pain, and other health problems if not performed with proper technique. Work stress and pressure can also lead to accidents due to lack of concentration or fatigue. To protect their health and safety, workers need to be trained in safe loading and unloading techniques, take measures to reduce the load, and take reasonable breaks.

3. Causes of occupational accidents during waste transport

The causes of occupational accidents during waste transport often stem from improper waste handling and transport procedures. Workers may be injured by not using full personal protective equipment, leading to direct contact with sharp objects or toxic chemicals mixed in the waste. The lack of thorough occupational safety training also increases the risk of these accidents, seriously affecting the health of workers.

Traffic accidents during waste transport are mainly due to driver error, poor road conditions, or the carelessness of other vehicles. The lack of professional driving skills and failure to comply with traffic regulations can lead to collisions and rollovers, causing serious accidents. In addition, driving in bad weather conditions or in crowded areas without appropriate preventive measures also increases the risk of accidents.

In addition, the health and physical condition of workers is also a major cause of occupational accidents. Loading, unloading, and moving heavy loads without following safe techniques can cause musculoskeletal injuries, back pain, and related problems. Work stress and long working hours without sufficient rest also contribute to an increased risk of lack of concentration and fatigue, leading to unwanted accidents. Regular occupational safety training is an important measure to minimize these risks.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents during Waste Transport

Preventive measures for occupational accidents during waste transport require workers to strictly adhere to occupational safety regulations and use full personal protective equipment. This includes wearing gloves, masks, and safety shoes to avoid contact with sharp objects and toxic chemicals mixed in the waste. Regular occupational environmental monitoring is also very important to ensure that the working environment is safe and free of potential hazards.

Professional driving skills and adherence to traffic regulations are important measures to minimize traffic accidents. Workers need to be thoroughly trained in safe driving and how to handle emergency situations on the road. Regular maintenance and thorough inspection of transport vehicles are also key factors to ensure that the vehicle is always in the best condition, avoiding breakdowns and unexpected accidents.

In addition, ensuring the health and physical condition of workers through training programs on safe loading and unloading techniques is necessary. Workers need to be instructed on how to lift and move heavy loads with correct technique to avoid musculoskeletal injuries and back pain. Occupational environmental monitoring also plays an important role in monitoring and evaluating working conditions, thereby proposing measures to improve the working environment and minimize accident risks.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Waste Transport

Occupational safety regulations for waste transport require workers to strictly adhere to personal protection measures and safe work procedures. Before starting work, workers need to be fully equipped with gloves, masks, and safety shoes to protect against sharp objects and toxic chemicals. At the same time, they must master the regulations on waste classification and handling to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful substances.

Safe driving skills are an important factor in the waste transport process. Workers must be professionally trained in driving specialized vehicles and strictly adhere to traffic regulations. Regular inspection and maintenance of transport vehicles are mandatory to ensure they are always in the best condition. This not only helps prevent breakdowns but also minimizes the risk of traffic accidents, ensuring safety for both the driver and other road users.

In addition, waste transport workers need to comply with occupational safety regulations related to loading, unloading, and transporting heavy loads. They must be instructed on how to lift and move waste with the correct technique to avoid musculoskeletal injuries. The working environment needs to be kept clean and safe, with continuous supervision to detect and promptly address potential hazards. The full implementation of these regulations will help protect the health and safety of workers, while ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of waste transport operations.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents during Waste Transport

Handling emergency occupational accidents during waste transport requires quick thinking and solid first aid knowledge. When an accident occurs due to sharp objects or toxic chemicals, workers should immediately provide first aid by cleaning the wound under clean water and temporarily bandaging it. Then, they must immediately report to management and contact a medical facility for timely assistance. Detailed incident reporting is necessary for investigation and prevention of similar accidents.

For traffic accidents during transport, workers should quickly assess the situation and ensure the safety of themselves and those around them. If there are injuries, an ambulance should be called immediately and first aid measures should be taken if possible. It is also very important to notify management and the authorities so that they can coordinate and handle the situation in a timely manner, preventing serious consequences.

In the event of an accident due to loading, unloading, and transporting heavy waste, workers should provide first aid on the spot and stabilize the victim’s condition before moving them to a safe place. If there is a serious injury, an ambulance should be called immediately. Workers should also use the skills learned in occupational safety training courses to effectively respond to the emergency. Keeping detailed records and conducting post-accident investigations are important for improving procedures and preventing similar incidents in the future.

III. Occupational safety and health for waste processing and sorting staff

1. Job characteristics of waste processing and sorting

The job of processing and sorting waste requires meticulousness and precision to ensure that waste is handled correctly and the environment is protected. Sorting waste is the first and most important step, requiring workers to separate different types of waste such as organic waste, recyclable waste, and hazardous waste. This helps to minimize the amount of waste going to landfills and facilitates the subsequent processing process.

The processing of organic waste usually involves the collection of types of waste such as leftover food, leaves, and other biodegradable materials. Workers have to work in an environment with unpleasant odors and the potential to attract insects, so personal protective measures and maintaining a clean working environment are necessary. The collected organic waste will be sent to biogas plants or composting facilities, helping to reuse nutrients in agriculture.

For hazardous waste, handling requires strict adherence to regulations to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. Hazardous waste includes toxic chemicals, batteries, pesticides, and flammable and explosive materials. Workers must be thoroughly trained and fully equipped with personal protective equipment when working with this type of waste. Measures for handling hazardous waste include incineration, safe landfilling, or chemical treatment to minimize negative impacts on the environment.

2. Types of occupational accidents during waste processing and sorting

The types of occupational accidents in the process of processing and sorting waste often occur due to contact with sharp objects or hazardous waste that has not been properly sorted. During the waste sorting stage, workers may be pricked or cut by needles, glass fragments, or other sharp materials. These wounds are at risk of causing infection and need to be treated immediately to prevent serious complications.

The processing of organic waste also carries many risks of occupational accidents. Workers often have to work in an environment with unpleasant odors and the presence of pathogenic microorganisms. The risk of respiratory infections and skin allergies is quite high if appropriate protective measures are not in place. In addition, direct contact with organic waste can lead to long-term health problems, especially when the waste contains toxic chemicals due to improper sorting from the beginning.

In the process of processing hazardous waste, occupational accidents can include contact with toxic chemicals, fires and explosions, and accidents related to unsafe transportation and storage. Workers face the risk of chemical burns, poisoning, or other serious injuries. The failure to comply with occupational safety regulations and the lack of adequate personal protective equipment are the main causes of these accidents. To minimize the risk, in-depth training and strict supervision are necessary throughout the process of working with hazardous waste.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when processing and sorting waste

The causes of occupational accidents when processing and sorting waste are mainly due to improper sorting and the lack of personal protective measures. During the waste sorting process, workers often come into contact with sharp objects such as needles, glass fragments, and other hazardous materials. The failure to correctly identify and handle these types of waste carefully can lead to serious injuries, infections, and other health problems.

The processing of organic waste also carries many risks due to the humid working environment and the presence of many pathogenic microorganisms. The cause of accidents is often the lack of protective measures such as gloves, masks, and protective clothing. Workers are susceptible to respiratory diseases, skin allergies, and other health problems if they come into direct contact with organic waste without appropriate protective measures. In addition, the lack of knowledge and occupational safety training also increases the risk of accidents during the processing of organic waste.

In the process of processing hazardous waste, the causes of occupational accidents are often related to contact with toxic chemicals and flammable and explosive materials. The lack of adequate personal protective equipment and failure to comply with occupational safety regulations are the main causes of serious accidents. Workers need to be thoroughly trained on how to safely identify and handle these types of hazardous waste to minimize the risk of contact with toxic substances and ensure the safety of both themselves and the working environment.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents during Waste Processing and Sorting

Preventive measures for occupational accidents during waste processing and sorting begin with equipping workers with full personal protective equipment, including gloves, masks, and protective clothing. During the waste sorting process, workers need to be trained to correctly identify and handle sharp and hazardous objects. Adherence to occupational safety regulations and the proper use of protective equipment are key factors in minimizing the risk of accidents.

When processing organic waste, workers need to be trained on hygiene and safety measures to avoid direct contact with pathogenic microorganisms and toxic waste. The use of personal protective measures such as gloves and masks is necessary to prevent respiratory diseases and skin allergies. In addition, maintaining a clean and well-ventilated work environment also helps to reduce the risk of infection and other health problems.

For hazardous waste, strict adherence to occupational safety regulations and the use of specialized protective equipment are mandatory. Workers need to be thoroughly trained on how to safely identify and handle these types of waste. Measures such as isolating the work area, using explosion-proof equipment, and having full personal protective equipment will help minimize the risk of contact with toxic chemicals and ensure the safety of both workers and the environment. Regular occupational environmental monitoring also helps to detect and promptly address potential hazards, creating a safe and effective working environment.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Waste Processing and Sorting

Occupational safety regulations for waste processing and sorting require workers to strictly adhere to personal protection measures and safe work procedures. During the waste sorting process, workers need to use full gloves, masks, and protective clothing to protect themselves from sharp objects and toxic waste. At the same time, they must master the proper sorting procedure to minimize risks and improve work efficiency.

For the processing of organic waste, workers need to follow strict hygiene regulations. The use of personal protective equipment is mandatory to avoid contact with pathogenic microorganisms and toxic waste. The regulations also require maintaining a clean, well-ventilated work environment and implementing personal hygiene measures after each work shift to prevent infectious diseases and skin allergies. Perform tests at occupational safety training centers to obtain a certificate of occupational safety training. This will ensure that workers are well-versed in safety knowledge and have valid certification for their work.

The processing of hazardous waste requires stricter safety measures, including the use of specialized protective equipment such as poison-resistant masks, chemical-resistant gloves, and fire-resistant protective clothing. Workers must be thoroughly trained on how to safely identify and handle these types of waste. The regulations also require isolating the work area with hazardous waste and implementing fire and explosion prevention measures. The full implementation of these regulations will help protect the health and safety of workers, while also minimizing negative impacts on the environment.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents during Waste Processing and Sorting

Handling emergency occupational accidents during waste sorting requires quick thinking and basic first aid knowledge. When an accident occurs due to sharp objects or hazardous waste, workers should immediately clean the wound under clean water and temporarily bandage it. Then, they must immediately report to management and contact a medical facility for timely assistance. Detailed recording of the incident is necessary for investigation and prevention of similar accidents in the future.

During the processing of organic waste, accidents such as infections and allergies can occur. Workers should know how to recognize the initial symptoms of infection and take first aid measures such as cleaning the wound and using antiseptic medication. In serious cases, an ambulance should be called immediately and management should be notified for timely handling. Training in first aid and emergency response procedures will help workers be more confident and effective in handling these situations.

The processing of hazardous waste requires special emergency prevention and response measures. When an incident occurs, such as contact with toxic chemicals or a fire, workers must immediately leave the hazardous area and use personal protective measures such as poison-resistant masks and fire-resistant clothing. Calling for an ambulance and reporting to management are the next steps to be taken. Workers need to be thoroughly trained on evacuation procedures and emergency handling, as well as how to use specialized firefighting and first aid equipment to ensure maximum safety.

IV. Occupational safety and health for equipment operators and maintenance personnel

1. Job characteristics of equipment operation and maintenance

The job of operating and maintaining waste processing equipment requires high technical skill and a deep understanding of various types of machinery and equipment. The operation of waste processing machinery includes controlling automated and manual processes to sort, crush, compact, and process different types of waste. The operator must master the technical procedures, ensuring the machinery operates efficiently and safely. Any incident that occurs needs to be detected and handled promptly to avoid work disruption and the risk of occupational accidents.

Equipment maintenance and repair is an important part of ensuring the continuous and effective operation of the waste processing system. Maintenance workers need to perform regular inspections, cleaning, and lubrication of machine parts to prevent breakdowns. When an incident occurs, they must quickly identify the cause and carry out the necessary repairs or replacements. This job requires high technical skill, the ability to analyze, and to solve problems quickly.

Occupational safety is a key factor in the process of operating and maintaining equipment. Workers must be fully equipped with personal protective equipment and strictly adhere to safety regulations. Continuous training and coaching on occupational safety and incident handling skills are necessary to minimize the risk of accidents. By maintaining a safe and effective working environment, workers can ensure that the waste processing system always operates stably and sustainably.

2. Types of occupational accidents during equipment operation and maintenance

The types of occupational accidents in the process of operating waste processing machinery often involve contact with moving parts and hazardous materials. Workers can get their hands or other body parts caught in the machinery if they do not follow proper safety procedures. In addition, the failure to use proper personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety glasses also leads to the risk of injury from debris or sharp objects in the waste processing process.

During the maintenance and repair of equipment, occupational accidents can occur from electric shock, falls from heights, or injuries from tools and machinery that have not been thoroughly inspected. Maintenance workers often have to work with electrical equipment and complex machine parts, so the risk of electric shock or injury from mechanical parts is very high. The lack of skills or inadequate training on safety procedures also contributes to an increased risk of accidents.

In addition, occupational accidents can also occur from an unsafe or poorly maintained working environment. Wet, slippery work areas or insufficient lighting can lead to accidents such as slips or impacts. The failure to inspect and maintain equipment regularly also leads to unexpected breakdowns, posing a danger to workers. To minimize these risks, workers need to be thoroughly trained on occupational safety and adhere to strict safety regulations during work.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when operating and maintaining equipment

The causes of occupational accidents when operating waste processing machinery are often due to the lack of adherence to occupational safety and operating procedures. Workers may ignore regular inspections or the proper use of personal protective equipment, leading to direct contact with moving parts or hazardous materials. Carelessness or inexperience in operating machinery is also a significant cause of occupational accidents.

During the maintenance and repair of equipment, the cause of accidents often stems from the failure to turn off the power before working, leading to the risk of electric shock. Workers may also be injured by tools that are not maintained or used correctly. The lack of training on the technical and safety procedures when working with complex equipment also increases the risk of accidents. In addition, work pressure and long working hours without sufficient rest also contribute to a decrease in concentration and an increased risk of accidents.

In addition, an unsafe or poorly maintained working environment is also a cause of occupational accidents. Wet, slippery work areas or insufficient lighting can lead to accidents such as slips or impacts. The failure to inspect and maintain equipment regularly also leads to unexpected breakdowns, posing a danger to workers. To minimize these risks, it is necessary to have strict supervision and strict adherence to occupational safety measures throughout the work process.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents during Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Preventive measures for occupational accidents when operating waste processing machinery include strict adherence to occupational safety procedures. Workers should be fully equipped with personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing. Before operating machinery, they should conduct regular inspections and ensure that all equipment is operating normally. Thorough training on how to use machinery and identify potential hazards is also an important factor in minimizing accidents.

During the maintenance and repair of equipment, cutting off the power before working is a mandatory measure to prevent the risk of electric shock. Workers should use proper tools and personal protective equipment suitable for the job. Continuous training on technical and safety procedures is necessary for workers to master the necessary skills and understand accident prevention measures. Regular inspection and maintenance of tools also helps to minimize the risk of breakdowns and accidents. Complete occupational safety training to be issued a Group 3 occupational safety card by the occupational safety training center to strengthen the record as required when working.

In addition, maintaining a safe and clean working environment is an important measure to prevent accidents. Work areas should be well-lit and kept clean, avoiding slippery conditions and obstructions. Regular inspection and maintenance of machinery not only helps ensure work efficiency but also minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Adherence to occupational safety regulations and the necessary preventive measures will help protect the health and safety of workers during their work.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations for Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Occupational safety regulations for operating waste processing machinery require workers to strictly adhere to safe operating procedures. Before starting work, workers must inspect the operating condition of the machinery and ensure that all protective devices such as guards, warning lights, and emergency stop buttons are working properly. Workers also need to be thoroughly trained on how to use the machinery and the necessary safety measures to avoid the risk of accidents.

During the maintenance and repair of equipment, workers must follow regulations on cutting off the power and safety lockout before starting work. This helps to prevent the risk of electric shock and electricity-related accidents. The use of proper personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing is mandatory to protect workers from mechanical and chemical hazards. In addition, workers need to be trained on safe maintenance and repair techniques to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

The work environment also needs to be kept safe and clean. Work areas must be well-lit, not slippery, and free of obstructions. Regular inspection and maintenance of machinery helps to ensure that the equipment is always in good condition, minimizing the risk of breakdowns and accidents. Adherence to occupational safety regulations not only protects the health and safety of workers but also ensures high and sustainable work efficiency in the process of operating and maintaining equipment.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accidents during Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Handling emergency occupational accidents when operating waste processing machinery requires quick thinking and solid first aid knowledge. When an accident occurs due to machinery, workers should immediately turn off the machine and use the emergency stop button. Next, they should quickly provide first aid for injuries such as cuts or entrapment by bandaging and temporarily stopping the bleeding. At the same time, they must report to management and call for an ambulance to ensure the victim receives timely medical care.

During the maintenance and repair of equipment, if an accident occurs such as electric shock or a fall from a height, workers should quickly cut off the power source and provide first aid to the victim. For electric shock cases, it is very important to isolate the victim from the power source and perform artificial respiration if necessary. If there is an injury from a fall, the victim should be kept stable and not moved until professional medical assistance arrives. Report the incident to management and the safety team so they can handle it in a timely and effective manner.

In addition, training workers on first aid skills and handling emergency situations is necessary to ensure safety in the workplace. Workers need to be instructed on how to use first aid equipment and fire fighting equipment, as well as response procedures in the event of an incident. Regular drills will help workers to be always ready and confident in dealing with emergency occupational accidents, ensuring the safety of themselves and their colleagues.

PART III: Additional Resources