Near misses and concerning incidents have Bundaberg Regional Council highlighting kerbside bin practices to reduce risks and keep the community and collection truck drivers safe.
Whether it’s rushing to the kerbside to add that last-minute rubbish bag or batteries in bins posing a fire risk for trucks, Water, Waste and Renewable Economy portfolio spokesperson Cr Jason Bartels said simple changes could make a big difference to safety.
“Our collection trucks make hundreds of stops a day,” he said.
“When residents rush toward a truck, stand too close to the lifting arm, or place hazardous items in their bins, they put themselves, our drivers and the community at risk.”
Cr Bartels said common risky behaviours near waste collections trucks included:
• residents running up to a truck after forgetting to put bins out
• standing too close while the bin is lifted
• drivers not giving way to operating trucks
“Our kerbside collection trucks stop frequently and have blind spots similar to cars and other heavy vehicles.
“The lifting arm swings out and needs clear space to operate safely.
“We ask that residents never approach a waste collection truck when it is in operation and when the truck is nearby, that children and pets be kept several metres away from the bin.
“In other parts of the state we are aware of tragic incidents that have resulted in injury or even loss of life which have shown the serious consequences of not taking care around frequently stopping vehicles.”
Following recent battery fires in trucks and waste facilities within the region Cr Bartels said safe battery disposal, and the disposal of other types of hazardous waste such as gas bottles, chemicals and e waste was another safety focus for Council.
“We’ve had multiple truck and facility fires caused by batteries and other flammable materials being thrown away,” Cr Bartels said.
“It’s not just dangerous, it disrupts services and can cause serious harm.
“By keeping hazardous items out of household bins and following the three messages, residents can help keep each other safe and our services running smoothly.”
To help promote and support safe kerbside bin collection practices Bundaberg Regional Council is launching a new waste education campaign: Be smart. Be safe. Be seen.
Campaign breakdown: Be smart. Be safe. Be seen.
Be smart
• Bins apart and lids closed – Place bins on the kerbside at least half a metre apart and ensure the lid is closed.
• Bins out the night before – Collection times may vary to meet demand so having bins out the night before ensures collection.
• No hazardous waste – Don’t bin batteries, gas bottles, chemicals, e waste or other items that can cause fires and service disruption.
Be safe
• Truck in operation – The lifting arm needs room to move and can cause injury if standing too close.
• Keep your distance – Drivers, cyclists and walkers take care when approaching and passing kerb side collection trucks in operation.
• Be patient – A few seconds to give way to frequently stopping trucks keeps everyone safe.
Be seen
• Give us a wave – If you can’t see the driver, they can’t see you. Making eye contact and a wave acknowledges the driver has seen you.
• Stay back from the kerb – It can be fun for kids to watch, however ensure to keep kids and pets well back from the kerb
• Missed it? Don’t risk it! – Rushing up to an operating truck can be dangerous and cause serious injury.
Cr Bartels said the campaign focused on messaging and education about safer streets, smarter bin use and reducing landfill across the region.
“This is a community effort,” Cr Bartels said.
“By following these simple safety steps, we can prevent accidents and protect lives. Be smart. Be safe. Be seen.”
For more information visit bundaberg.qld.gov.au
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