Good news given my awful last couple of weeks - I have secured an interview on Wednesday of this week with a large waste handling company. Can anyone offer me any pointers please in ref to possible questions that I may be asked specific the waste industry as this is out of my normal remit? There will be things like workplace transport (inc pedestrians) noise, dust, cuts, zoonoses(?), and the site is 14001 and 18001 accredited. Any pointers will be gratefully received. Thanks in advance Stuart

Stuart meant to include a link to a good starting point - http://www.hse.gov.uk/waste/wish.htm Stuart

One of my sites Im responsible for is also a MRF (Materials Recycling Facility) which is attached to a Transfer Station and a Energy from Waste (EfW) plant. They work well together. You do need to look into the importance of plant, vehicle and pedestrian segregation but also the dangers of a baling machine, moving conveyors, guards, working at height, harness and fall arrest systems (pre-use checks, inspection and servicing and also training and lists of authorised persons etc). Noise is a big part and dependant on what type of dust suppression or extraction system is in place will depend on the the dust problem. Generally because of the materials being processed there will be a dust issue. A MRF has a multitude of H&S obstacles and issues, operatives included, however it is character building and I would say that you are looking for a new challenge in a new industry, are a fast learner and with the appropriate training will make a difference. I'm more than happy to help in any way. All the best and good luck

Just to keep you up to speed - had an interview today with a different Co - seems as if i will be asked back for second stage interview. Fingers and everything else crossed. Thanks for your support. Stuart

Hi Stuart, I work in the waste industry, here are some pointers that you might like to consider. The main accidents that we would have here are dust in the eyes, cuts, burns from burning materials, slips, trips and falls and manual handling injuries. Most injuries are sustained as pedestrians moving around the site or when carrying out maintenace at machinery. We have a real potential for falls from height due to the machinery that we use. Pedestrian & Vechicle segregation is fundamental as is the control & supervision of contractors & customers on site. Permit to work systems are in place and are essential. All our operators undergo RIPOTS Training (Recyling Industry & Plant Operative Training) every 3 years. We have Safe working procedures in place which are given to all staff in a booklet and signed off at induction. The waste industry is one which is very unique and some of the attitudes towards safety can be very caveman for want of a better word! It can be very challenging so you might want to get across in your interview how you would or could deal with a challenging environment and that you are fully aware of that. I found in my interview for my current position they took what I knew about H&S on face value from my C.V and concentrated upon how I would deal with certain types of situations / deal with certain people & what my attitude towards safety was. Hope this helps somewhat. Good luck with your interview :)

Stuie sent you a pm, chris