Collection and Transportation Logistics Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'dead-end street' collection protocol in route design?

Answer: To define specific turn-around procedures minimizing backup maneuvers on blind-end roads

Dead-end street protocols specify how drivers should approach and turn around on cul-de-sacs or dead-ends to minimize backing, which reduces accident risk and collection time.

Which type of waste container is typically used for large-scale commercial and construction waste collection?

Answer: Roll-off open-top container

Roll-off containers are large, open-top metal boxes transported by hook-lift or cable-hoist trucks, ideal for bulk debris from commercial or construction sites.

A waste collection manager notices fuel costs increasing despite stable route miles. Which factor should be investigated first?

Answer: Idle time and engine warm-up habits of drivers

Excessive idling is a primary cause of unexpected fuel cost increases since collection vehicles often idle during loading — monitoring and limiting idle time can significantly reduce consumption.

What is 'set-out rate' in residential waste collection performance metrics?

Answer: The percentage of households that place waste containers at the curb on collection day

Set-out rate measures participation by tracking what percentage of eligible households actually present waste for collection on their scheduled day.

Under EPA regulations, which category of waste requires a manifest document to accompany each shipment during transport?

Answer: Hazardous waste

EPA's 40 CFR Part 262 requires a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest to accompany all hazardous waste shipments from generation through final disposal under the cradle-to-grave tracking system.

What is the main benefit of implementing 'dynamic routing' software in waste collection operations?

Answer: It adjusts routes in real time based on traffic, missed stops, and service requests

Dynamic routing software uses real-time data to optimize routes on the fly, reducing total miles driven and improving on-time service completion.

A municipality switching from twice-weekly to once-weekly collection would most likely require:

Answer: Larger containers for residents and increased truck payload capacity

Reducing collection frequency means more waste accumulates between pickups, requiring residents to have larger containers and trucks capable of handling heavier loads per stop.