DEACS Update — COVID-19
DEACS would like to offer our support to all local government staff keeping our North Carolina communities running as we constantly adjust to the COVID-19 pandemic. DEACS staff are doing our best to stay informed as we monitor the situation and will send updates as needed. Staff is available Monday-Friday from 8am – 5pm by phone or by email to assist you with questions or concerns.
Topics
- Recycling is an Essential Service
- Worker Safety
- Helpful Information Sources
Recycling is an Essential Service
In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 cases, Governor Cooper has issued a Stay at Home Order for all North Carolinians beginning Monday, March 30 at 5:00 p.m. The Order classifies “solid waste and recycling collection and removal” as an essential service to remain in effect.
We encourage local governments and private businesses to continue collecting and processing recyclables in a way that protects the safety of workers and customers. Recyclables feed directly into the manufacturing supply chain and serve as critical feedstock for consumer goods that are in high demand right now such as cardboard boxes, toilet paper, and packaging for food, cleaning supplies and medical supplies.
At this time, DEACS is not aware of major service disruptions at any of the state’s Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs). Haulers are adding precautions to protect workers and limit direct exposure to materials at the curb. For example, Waste Management issued the attached service guidelines for curbside customers.
Please let us know how you are modifying solid waste and recycling services by changing operations or temporarily suspending certain services. Please also let us know if you are experiencing disruptions when sending recyclables to be processed or directly to market.
Worker Safety
While essential services continue, operations must adapt to keep the safety of employees at the forefront and minimize the potential for exposure to COVID-19. The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. (ISRI) Guidance to Help Recyclers Operate Safely offers a Safety Checklist for recycling operations and specific guidance for Truck Operations. Additional resources are provided below.
Helpful Information Sources
The Recycling Partnership is hosting a webinar on Tuesday, March 31 to discuss COVID-19 and it’s impacts on recycling. Register here to participate: https://therecyclingpartnership.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6Uy4AAupSaW1mv1OT3vmxA
Additional information sources about recycling operations and employee safety:
OSHA: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/covid-19/controlprevention.html#solidwaste
SWANA: https://swana.org/initiatives/guidance-on-coronavirus-(covid-19)
Emily Burnett
Organics Recycling Specialist
Recycling and Materials Management Section
Division of Environmental Assistance and Customer Service
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
919.707.8121 (Office)