NYC Safety Procedures and PPE

Question 1

Which type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is MOST critical for NYC sanitation workers when handling sharp or unknown waste?

Accepted Answer

Heavy-duty puncture-resistant gloves

Answer

Safety glasses only

Answer

Standard latex gloves

Answer

No PPE is required for routine collection

Question 2

What is the correct procedure when a sanitation worker encounters a hypodermic needle in a waste container?

Accepted Answer

Use tongs or a mechanical device and report it as sharps waste

Answer

Pick it up bare-handed and place it in a red biohazard bag

Answer

Leave it in the container and continue collection

Answer

Crush it underfoot to prevent injury to others

Question 3

According to DSNY safety rules, how should a worker position themselves when a collection truck is backing up?

Accepted Answer

Stand at a safe distance to the side, clear of the truck's path

Answer

Stand directly behind the truck to guide it

Answer

Remain in the truck cab

Answer

Sit on the rear step

Question 4

What does the acronym 'LOTO' stand for in DSNY vehicle safety?

Accepted Answer

Lockout/Tagout

Answer

Load Out, Tip Over

Answer

Low Output, Truck Off

Answer

Lift Out, Turn Off

Question 5

When working in extreme heat, how often should DSNY workers take a water break according to NYC heat safety guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Every 15–20 minutes during strenuous work

Answer

Once per shift

Answer

Every 2 hours minimum

Answer

Only when feeling dizzy

Question 6

Which back injury prevention technique should sanitation workers use when lifting heavy refuse containers?

Accepted Answer

Bend the knees, keep the back straight, and lift with the legs

Answer

Bend at the waist and jerk the load upward

Answer

Twist the torso while lifting to build momentum

Answer

Lean forward and pull the container toward the body