According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics there are an estimated 120,000 waste workers in this country, approximately 48,620 of whom are collectors. In some parts of the country only 1 percent of people who apply to become workers are actually hired. Even though seemingly a lot of people want the job, garbage collection remains one of the most dangerous jobs in the country.

Many deaths are vehicle related- either from being struck by the garbage truck itself or from vehicles passing by. Collectors are also subject to overexertion or lifting injuries. The Bureau of Labor Statics reports that the majority of injuries collectors suffer that require days off of work are related to strains, sprains, back pain, contusions or fractures.

Garbage itself can be dangerous- sometimes there are unsafe chemicals and fumes, pieces of broken glass, or any number of dangerous items in the cans and in landfills that can impact workers. And the labor involved in collecting refuse can take a toll on workers, who lift heavy cans and run around the truck getting to the cans. Slip and falls are prevalent, especially when the weather is bad.

According to 2014 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, loggers have the most fatalities, 111 deaths for every 100,000 workers. Garbage collectors had the fifth most dangerous occupation, roughly 36 fatalities for every 100,000 workers. In 2014 there were 4,821 total occupational deaths.

The Atlantic ran an article in which they interviewed a collector, Angel Veloz. He emphasized how important it is to think about safety on the job.

“In this business, if you become complacent, you’re looking for death,” said Veloz.

Both employers and employees should make sure that trucks and lifters are in working order so that nothing breaks down and becomes a potential hazard to collectors. Employees should be trained in proper lifting techniques and also in how to secure bins when they are being loaded, especially for collectors who work with dumpsters. Employees should not ride on the back of the truck and hold onto handles unless they are traveling below 10 mph and between very short stops, otherwise they should ride in the cab when traveling anywhere. Safety equipment like heavy gloves, goggles and masks are recommended.