In 2022, Waste Pro proudly awarded 115 employees the company’s coveted Safety Award. A total of $1,030,000 was awarded to 91 drivers and 24 helpers who remain dedicated to safely serving the communities within the Southeastern United States. “Our Waste Pros continue to prioritize safety. This recognition is earned and not won – it takes hard work, dedication, and a belief in the Waste Pro Way in addition to following our core values and safety protocols,” said Waste Pro Director of Safety Romeo Vellutini.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has consistently ranked solid waste collection in the top five most dangerous jobs in the United States, with fatality rates being as high as ten times the national average. To enhance and increase its commitment to safety, Waste Pro’s Founder and Executive Board Chairman John Jennings established the $10,000 Safety Award Program in 2004 for drivers. To earn the coveted $10,000 award, drivers must go three years without an at-fault accident, injury, or incident causing property damage; have a record of excellent customer service; maintain a well-kept truck; and have a strong attendance record A Helper $5,000 Safety Award was created in 2019 with the same requirements.
Since the program’s inception in 2004, approximately $7.4 million has been awarded to drivers and helpers who are committed to safety and the service they provide to communities throughout our footprint. To date, more than 740 drivers and 97 helpers have earned the awards, some of whom have earned them multiple times.
“Showcasing value and our commitment to our Waste Pros is more important than ever. When my father started our Safety Award program it allowed us a path to reward our hard-working frontline employees who demonstrate the commitment to safety and service that we pride ourselves on offering in the communities we serve,” said President and CEO Sean Jennings.