A lorry driver’s quick-thinking prevented a potentially fatal accident after he discovered a person sleeping inside a commercial waste bin just as it was being collected.
Waste firm Grundon has now teamed up with the homelessness charity Crisis to raise awareness of the dangers people face if they are forced to seek shelter in a bin.
It said companies needed to be aware of the heightened risks as increasing numbers of quieter electric bin wagons enter into service.
The campaign provides advice for people seeking shelter from the cold and it also offers guidance for businesses and the wider public on how to recognise the telltale signs that someone may have taken refuge inside a waste bin.
Grundon said the campaign was prompted by an incident last Christmas when its driver Dave Goodwin realised a bin he was due to collect was particularly heavy.
On investigating further, he discovered a person sleeping inside and was able to ensure the individual could get out safely.
Goodwin said: “As drivers, we are always trained to be alert to anything unusual and it was one of those split second moments when you realise something isn’t right.
“I immediately stepped back from the bin and was hugely relieved to find that although the gentleman inside was a bit shaken up, he was unharmed.
“He told me that previously, he would listen out for the sound of a diesel engine as a warning of a vehicle approaching.
“Because I was in an electric vehicle, which is much quieter, he didn’t hear it approach.”
Reg Hodson, Grundon head of SHEQ, said: “Thankfully, due to Dave’s professionalism and care no harm was done but hearing his story and seeing this video made us realise that, as our industry moves to quieter electric waste collection vehicles, we all need to be more vigilant to help reduce the chances of such an incident happening again.
“That’s why, supported by Crisis, we’ve launched this campaign to help get that message out to as many people as possible.”
Typical signs that someone may be taking refuge inside a bin will include broken locks, rubbish scattered on the ground, evidence of personal belongings nearby, and items such as pallets stacked up to allow someone to climb inside the container.
Hodson added: “We are asking anyone who has waste containers in or around their premises to carry out regular checks and to make sure the area is secure and well-lit.
“Talk to your staff so they know the signs to look out for and, if possible, display warning signs on and around the bins themselves. By taking a few minutes this winter, everyone can play their part in keeping people safe.”
Francesca Albanese, director of policy and social change at Crisis, said: “We are tragically seeing more and more people forced to sleep on our streets. Faced with danger and uncertainty, people can seek shelter from the cold and to keep themselves hidden from view for their own safety.
“We are pleased to be able to work with Grundon on this campaign, which we hope will keep more people safe from harm.”
