June 17 - Special Day to Recognize Trash and Recycling Collectors

June 17 is National Garbage Man Day. Annually, communities across the nation are encouraged to take a moment and show appreciation for the men and women in the solid waste management industry and particularly, their trash collectors, for “Keeping You and the Environment Safe”!

At a recent board meeting, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors proclaimed Monday, June 17 as National Garbage Man Day in Prince William County. The Prince William County Solid Waste Division will recognize National Garbage Man Day on June 17. Trash haulers that come to the Prince William County Landfill will receive expressions of thanks from staff, a special treat and safety tips.

June is National Safety month and according to Bureau of Labor Statistic refuse and recycling collection workers rank 5 out of 10 on the list of fatal job injuries. Emphasis is being placed on a special safety campaign, “Five to Stay Alive” by SWANA, which is an appropriate focus year-round for these workers.

In addition to collecting trash and moving it from one place to another, the employees of the solid waste industry are also pioneers in advancing technologies such as recycling, renewable and sustainable energy, and reduction of our dependence on fossil fuels. Match that with the clear impact on city cleanliness and hygiene, and it seems the modern-day garbage man should be receiving a little more than our garbage every week.

During the week of June 17, there are many ways that residents and businesses can also show support and appreciation for the people doing these dangerous, yet important jobs:

• Slow down and pay extra attention when approaching or passing a collection vehicle.
• Share a wrapped sweet treat or healthy snack
• Offer a cold bottle of water
• Give him or her a tip with a personal “thank you”
• Leave a thank you note
• Meet your collector at the curb and help them lift your load to show your awareness of their efforts
• Follow the provided guidelines for size and weight limitations and types of materials discarded in the regular trash
• Properly dispose of hazardous materials, do not put them in the trash
• Use more caution when putting harmful items in the trash such as glass or hot ashes
• Consider ways you can reduce, reuse and recycle the things at home, school and work instead of throwing them in the garbage.
• Give the landfill attendants a “high five.”

  To learn more about National Garbage Man Day, and how you can show your support, go to www.garbagemanday.org. You can also send your celebration ideas and photos to [email protected].