Garbage collectors at high risk of injury, death

AFSCME members working in sanitation have one of the most dangerous public service jobs. Garbage collectors have higher risk of death on the job than police officers or firefighters.

The most recent recorded data says that fatality rates for garbage collectors is on the rise and in 2015 hit the highest point in the last ten years. Many states, including Illinois, have passed legislation to reverse that trend and prevent more injuries and deaths.

Illinois was the 10th state to pass such a law. Illinois motorists are required to slow down below the speed limit when they are approaching recycling or garbage trucks, changing lanes if possible, or risk a penalty of up to $10,000.

AFSCME Council 31 applauds all public service workers who do critical but dangerous work in their communities every day.