HexArmor Catalogue - Recycling

Safely Going Green

Around the world, more and more people are adopting a “green” lifestyle. As states and municipalities mandate that higher percentages of waste be diverted from landfills, the waste and recycling industry continues to grow. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the percentage of waste recycled in the United States has doubled since 1985 – a trend that is likely to continue.

Waste and recyclable materials move from collection to a landfill or diversion through several processes. The solid waste industry is made up of three main groups: collection, treatment/disposal,

and other waste remediation services. In 2013, approximately 518,000 workers were employed in the solid waste industry with about 377,600 in private industry. Jobs in the industry include drivers, heavy equipment operators, mechanics, and material handlers (sorters) who manually sort through waste streams to isolate recyclables.

Recycling, though desirable and necessary, is extremely hazardous work. Employees are exposed to scrap metal, electronics, batteries, hypodermic needles, used oil and other chemicals on a daily basis. Work-related injuries in this industry can be disastrous.

4 | HexArmor ® Waste&Recycling

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