Wastecycle invests in collection vehicle to boost safety

The company has invested in a Mercedes-Benz 8×2 Aroc rigid collection vehicle, which has been designed to meet company specifications through collaborative work between Wastecycle and local dealership Mertrux.

The vehicle includes additional safety features to those found in existing models, which includes a cyclist radar warning system, rear camera, image-enhancing mirrors and high-density strobe lights.

The vehicle also features a left-turning warning signal, increased cab height for driver visibility and an auto-lowering rear suspension system to improve stability.

Wastecycle’s addition of the vehicle is part of the recycling firm’s plans to place safety “at the heart of the business”.

Fuel

But, the Aroc will also help cut down on fuel consumption, with the engine automatically shutting off after two minutes if left in a stationery position, as well as a single reduction rear axle.

As a result, over the course of five years, the truck is expected to show savings between £30,000 and £35,000 against fuel consumption from other collection vehicles.

Paul Clements, director of Wastecycle, said: “It has taken almost a year of Wastecycle and Mercedes-Benz working together to arrive at this new model and secure the necessary Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) from the Department of Transport but it has been worth the investment.

“It is a real delight to finally see it with the Wastecycle livery. Safety, innovation and consideration for the environment are at the heart of our business.”

Based in Leicester and Nottingham, Wastecycle processes over 450,000 tonnes of waste and materials through its recycling facilities every year with over 90% of this recycled and recovered.

Awards

Last week, the firm was announced as the winner of the Chartered Institute of Building awards in both the health and safety and renewable technologies categories.

It follows the roll out of a 12-month ‘culture change’ programme among Wastecycle staff to improve health and safety at its sites.

Mr Clements added: “We are delighted to have been recognised by the CIOB. Nothing is more important than making sure all our employees get home safe and well every night and the results of our cultural change programme are testament to the impact it is having.”

• For an in-depth look at health and safety within the sector, join us at the annual Health and Safety Conference on 16 July. To find out more click here.