Waste collection is the component of waste management which results in the passage of a waste material from the source of production to either the point of treatment or final disposal. Waste collection also includes the kerbside collection of recyclable materials that technically are not waste, as part of a municipal landfill diversion program.
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Household waste in economically developed countries will generally be left in waste containers or recycling bins prior to collection by a waste collector using a waste collection vehicle.
However, in many developing countries, such as Mexico[1] and Egypt[2], residents must interact with the waste collectors, or else trash is not removed (waste left in bins or bags at the side of the road cannot be expected to be removed).
For example, in Mexico City residents must haul their trash to a waste collection vehicle which makes frequent stops around each neighborhood. The waste collectors will indicate their readiness by ringing a distinctive bell and possibly shouting. Residents line up and hand their trash container to the waste collector. Depending on the neighborhood, a tip may be expected[1]. Additionally, private contractors waste collectors may circulate in the same neighborhoods as many as 5 times per day, pushing a cart with a waste container, ringing a bell and shouting to announce their presence. These private contractors are not paid a salary, and survive only on the tips they receive[1]. Later, they meet up with a waste collection vehicle to deposit their accumulated waste.
The waste collection vehicle will often take the waste to a transfer station where it will be loaded up into a larger vehicle and sent either to landfill or to an alternative waste treatment facility.
Other things that are considered in Waste Collection is the positioning of the bin, type and size of bin, and how often it is to be serviced.
There are a number of problems that can occur in Commercial Waste Collection. Overfilled bins result in rubbish falling out while being tipped. Hazardous rubbish (like empty petrol cans) lead to fires that ignite other rubbish when truck compactor is operating. Other non-paying parties can attempt to put rubbish in a bin. This behaviour is prevented by putting chains, bars and locks on the bins.[3]
A common severe incident that occurs with many front lift garbage trucks is the pulling down of powerlines. If hooks are left upright at the top of the crunk, they are in prime position to pull down powerlines. Truck drivers are now being trained in identifying and managing powerline hazards.
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