Star Rowland, Ramon Singletary, and Christopher Brown are part of the City of Richmond’s trash collection team. They say communication is central to their work. “Trust plays a huge factor,” said Chris Brown. Star Rowland added, “You make a bond with the folks on the truck.”
Star Rowland’s responsibilities as a driver include ensuring that collectors like Ramon and Chris arrive at each site safely and assisting by watching for hazards while they load the truck.
Trash collection days start early for drivers, particularly in cold weather. They inspect and warm up vehicles before beginning their routes, which change daily. The team often spends five to six hours collecting trash before returning to the transfer station, where waste is loaded onto tractor trailers for transport to the landfill.
During holidays, there is an increase in both general trash and food waste, leading to more encounters with animals such as raccoons, squirrels, rats, and occasionally snakes. Star Rowland noted that when collectors hurry during pickup, it often means there is an animal inside a can.
Solid Waste teams face several dangers on the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, trash collection is among the most hazardous occupations in the United States. Ramon Singletary explained: “The only way trash collection works is if everybody is watching everybody. Our lives are on the line every day.”
The City’s Solid Waste staff receive safety training and certification. However, they emphasize that public cooperation can further improve safety and efficiency:
– Motorists should drive carefully around collection vehicles due to limited visibility from trucks.
– Residents are advised not to place hazardous items such as gas cans or chemicals in regular trash bins; these can damage equipment or cause injuries.
– Bagging all trash helps prevent litter from blowing away or attracting animals.
– Trash cans should be placed at property edges on collection days for easier access; those unable to do so due to mobility issues may qualify for special services.
– Avoid overloading cans with heavy or wet materials; residents can request additional bins if needed.
– Collectors sometimes leave notes about problems with bins—residents are encouraged to read these messages so issues can be resolved quickly.
Making small changes in how waste is managed at home can support city workers’ safety and help maintain clean neighborhoods. As Ramon Singletary put it: “You gotta keep trash on schedule. It keeps society running.”
For many workers like Chris Brown and Ramon Singletary, interactions with local children provide positive moments during their routes—such as honking horns for students or greeting children who have named their garbage truck.
