Refuse Collector

Also known as:

Dustbinman/woman
Rubbish Collector
Waste Disposal Operative

Introduction

Refuse collectors remove waste and rubbish from houses, factories, hospitals, shops, etc. They usually work as part of a team on a refuse truck, collecting rubbish and unloading it at a tip. Most employers only recruit people aged 18 or over for health and safety reasons.

Back to Top

Work Activities

Refuse collectors remove household rubbish and collect industrial and commercial waste. Household waste collectors usually work in teams of two to five loaders plus a driver. The loader's job depends on the type of bins used.

When standard household dustbins or plastic sack liners are used, one or two loaders carry the bins or sacks to the roadside for the wagon. Other loaders follow with the wagon and lift and empty the bins or throw the sacks into the back of the truck. New plastic sacks are left as the filled sacks are collected.

Where wheelie bins are used, householders usually leave the bins at the roadside for emptying. Loaders push the bins to the back of the truck where the bins are attached to an automatic lifting and tipping mechanism. With both types, the loaders operate controls at the rear of the truck to compress the rubbish.

Loaders help the driver to manoeuvre the truck by giving directions and hand signals. They may also assist at the disposal site. In some areas, and by arrangement, refuse collectors may take away large items of waste.

Driving a refuse wagon is a specialist job. Drivers may have supervisory responsibility for the crew. They may also deal with members of the public if there are any problems. Drivers are also responsible for the vehicle and make daily routine maintenance checks.

Back to Top

Personal Qualities and Skills

As a refuse loader you need to be physically fit and active as you are likely to spend most of the time on your feet and can be involved in lifting and carrying heavy bins and plastic sacks. You should not be allergic to dust or suffer from asthma.

It is important that you are aware of health and safety regulations. You need to work carefully, paying attention to the traffic.

Working well as a team is essential. Each member of the crew needs to be reliable and co-operative.

Back to Top

Pay and Opportunities

Pay rates for refuse collectors vary with employer and region.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Earnings are in the range of £240 - £280 a week, rising to £300 - £320. Higher earners can make around £340 a week.

Refuse collectors work 39 hours a week. Shift work, early starts and late finishes are common. Weekend work and work on public holidays may also be required. Overtime is often available.

Jobs exist throughout the country with refuse collection firms, waste management companies and with local authorities.

Back to Top

Adult Opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation. Drivers must be aged at least 21.

Some entrants have gained relevant practical skills and abilities using their hands, or gained other relevant skills, eg, as a porter or labourer.

• 2% of refuse collectors work part-time.
• 2% have flexible hours.
• 12% work on a temporary basis.

Back to Top

New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as waste management.