An investigation has been launched after a man narrowly escaped death when he was tipped into a refuse collection lorry while the vehicle's machinery was in operation. The alarming incident took place in the St Pauls area of Bristol on Monday morning, June 29.
Crew's Swift Action Prevented Tragedy
Bosses at Bristol Waste stated that only the swift actions of the bin lorry crew had averted a tragedy. Bristol Waste confirmed they had 'launched a full investigation to understand how this occurred', adding that the incident served as a stark warning to people against seeking shelter inside bins.
"During the collection process, our crew became aware of a person who had been inside a waste container, and immediately stopped the machinery inside the truck," a Bristol Waste spokesperson confirmed. "Emergency services were contacted, and the individual was safely assisted from the vehicle. The individual did not appear to have sustained any obvious injuries at the scene and declined medical assessment from the ambulance service."
Investigation Underway
Bristol Waste said it was 'treating this incident with the utmost seriousness and have launched a full investigation to understand how this occurred'. The company added: "Bristol Waste's priority remains the safety of the public and its crews, and Bristol Waste will take any necessary action following the outcome of the investigation."
Ricky Gayfer, Bristol Waste's director of operations, said the incident could have ended in tragedy. "Health and safety is of utmost importance to Bristol Waste and all our people. The crews followed their training and procedures and acted quickly – it is thanks to them that this did not end in tragedy. It is imperative that people do not seek shelter in bins, and we will be reaching out to relevant organisations in the city to help get this message out."
