The coronavirus pandemic has caused an uptick in trash generated—mainly from residential waste streams. This waste, which is being sent to landfills and materials recovery facilities, is producing challenges for the waste and recycling industry, as it works to manage this additional volume.
For workers working behind the scenes in landfills, this situation presents many safety challenges. From shortages of personal protection equipment to handling potentially hazardous waste, these workers are facing many risks while providing services to protect public health and safety.