Composting Facilities

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Dec 5th, 11
Many solid waste companies and local governments are composting organic materials
for both environmental and economic reasons. A recent tragic event in California
highlights one of the safety hazards that exist at composting facilities.

Many solid waste companies and local governments are composting organic materials
for both environmental and economic reasons. A recent tragic event in California
highlights one of the safety hazards that exist at composting facilities.

In October 2011, two brothers died from asphyxiation in a drainage tunnel at the
Community Recycling and Resource Recovery facility in Kern County, California.
The deceased individuals (an employee and a contract worker) were reportedly
overcome by hydrogen sulfide and allegedly were not provided with appropriate
personal protective equipment (PPE) or training for entering a confined space. The
facility’s operating permit has been terminated and a $2.3 million fine has been
issued.

Composting facilities pose unique workplace safety hazards for employees,
particularly the risk of suffocation from fumes emitted by decaying organic material.
Composting facilities are urged to review their safety programs and ensure that
proper training and PPE are provided to its employees and all contract workers. No
more funerals.

Article was provided by WASTEC

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