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You are here: CIWM  >  Publications  >  Latest News  >  Taylor Responds To Health & Safety Criticism

Taylor Responds To Health & Safety Criticism

10 December 2010

The incidence of serious injury and death in the waste and recycling industry is still too high, according to a recent statement from the Health & Safety Executive.

Peter Selkirk chief executive officer of waste container manufacturer, Taylor, argues that the potential risks are greater than ever, despite safer equipment being available.

"As an industry, we cannot afford to sit still when it comes to health and safety. With increasing economic pressures and less money in the public purse, it is essential that operators and purchasing personnel alike recognise the risks involved in cutting corners to save a few pounds."

The result of any HSE investigation into a serious injury or a fatality in the waste and recycling industry, following the recent statement, points towards an example being made of those who are found to be at fault. However, despite this, the worrying trend among cash- strapped businesses is to opt for the lowest price contractor to collect waste; and added competition is tempting organisations to make short-term savings by purchasing containers that don't meet EN840 quality standards, or the HSE's own WISH guidelines. A poor quality 1100-litre bin, for example, can easily fail in a number of safety-crucial areas, putting not just operators, but also the general public at risk.

Taylor is embarking on a nationwide campaign to educate those in decision-making capacities, regarding waste handling and waste container equipment. The company is providing information about the standards set-out in the EN840 standard and the critical requirements of the WISH guidelines.

"Only by being properly informed will those who work in this industry be able to make the right decision, protecting the safety of workers, customers, and the general public," said Peter.

"The fact that the HSE is highlighting the safety issue is to be welcomed. The recent statement draws attention to what is a very serious issue, providing movement and momentum towards making improvements. We believe that by education and adherence to the standards and guidelines that are already present, the industry can be made safer, and we can protect the success that has already been achieved.

"The waste and recycling industry is inherently more dangerous than, say, dentistry; but it is far safer than soldiering in the armed forces; so the risks are relative. We at Taylor believe that minimising risk by developing the safest products and promoting the best working practices are an absolute priority for our industry."

During a recent visit to the Taylor research, development and test centre at the company's Worcestershire-based factory HM Principal Inspector of Health and Safety commented: "Waste bins have been taken for granted for many years, but this is because the majority of the items in use today are of a high quality standard. It is imperative that this standard is maintained, and the potential risks made plain to those who may be considering using equipment that does not conform to the relevant standards. We as inspectors also operate in the real world; and it is also our job to help people understand that good health and safety practice saves money: reducing risk effectively protects a company's bottom line."

As part of its individual commitment to health and safety, Taylor has invested in its own Test House: the UK's only fully certified R&D facility that offers EN840 accreditation. The facility has enabled Taylor to take the lead in producing waste containers that are as safe as possible across the widest range of operating conditions. This is achieved by mercilessly reproducing the most demanding real-world operating conditions in the test centre.

For example, a foot- operated lift for the bin lid on a Taylor Continental 1100 has to withstand over a hundred thousand lifts. "We had to adapt the test rig for the current design, because the test rig wore out before the bin lid lift mechanism," said Taylor technical design manager, Mark Roberts.

The current Taylor castor design has also undergone rigorous long term testing. It has been subjected to a kerb drop-off test, under full loading, for the equivalent of ten- years use and has a 100 percent survival rate. In addition, the front lip of the bin, where the mechanical lift system engages in order to tip the bin into the back of a waste collection vehicle, is a patented design that locates very accurately and is strong enough to lift a fully loaded bin safely for as long as the bin remains in operation - however long it stays in operation.

The ability to test containers effectively also means that handles on Taylor waste containers are placed in the optimal areas for ergonomics and manoeuvrability. This design also enhances safety, by ensuring that a safe distance is maintained from any moving parts, when presenting the container to the lifting device.

Readers can download the Taylor 'Simple Guide to EN840' and the requirements of WISH guidelines, now, from the company's website. There is also a free information and display pack available, which provides fact sheets, a paper copy of the guide and posters to serve as a visual reminder of actions that need to be undertaken.

Visit www.taylorbins.co.uk