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Over the past few months, several serious incidents have taken place involving careless and dangerous behaviour by other road users. These incidents have put the refuse crews at extreme risk while they carry out their work on our roads and residential streets. 

In one particularly concerning case, a crew member narrowly avoided being struck by a vehicle and was only able to do so by jumping out of the way at the last moment. This is not the first time this has happened and a number of these incidents are now being investigated by the police. 

The Council is working in partnership with SUEZ UK to take positive action to protect staff, call out this behaviour and send a clear message that it will not be tolerated. Both organisations are urging drivers to take greater responsibility and consider the safety of crews working on the roads and appreciate the essential work they are trying to do in sometimes challenging situations. 

As part of the campaign, Maldon District Council and SUEZ UK have produced a video using real footage captured by CCTV cameras on refuse collection vehicles. The footage highlights the reality crews face on a daily basis and the serious consequences that could result from unsafe driving. 

Watch the campaign video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQPnsQCGeTg  

Cllr Simon Morgan, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: “The crews are out in all weathers, every week, doing an essential job for our community – and they have the right to do that job safely. 

“What we are seeing is completely unacceptable. Drivers are taking risks, not paying attention, and putting people in danger. In one case, a member of the crew only just managed to get out of the way of a vehicle – that could easily have ended very differently. 

“We are working closely with SUEZ UK on this campaign because we need people to stop and think. Slow down, be patient, and give crews the space they need. It is a simple message, but it could prevent a serious injury – or worse. 

“We are grateful to those drivers who are already considerate around our crews – your patience and care really do make a difference.” 

Barry Dolphin, Contract Manager at SUEZ, said: “Safety is at the heart of everything we do. We want our crews to carry out their work safely and return home unharmed at the end of each day. We urge the public to be patient and help avoid putting our people at risk.” 

The Council and SUEZ UK are urging all drivers to take extra care when approaching refuse vehicles, avoid overtaking unless it is safe to do so, and stay alert to crew members working on or near the road. 

By working in partnership and showing consideration on the roads, everyone can help ensure that crews return home safely at the end of every working day. 

Notes: 

• SUEZ UK is a leading waste and recycling company, providing services to local authorities across the country. The company collects a range of waste streams on behalf of Maldon District Council, including general refuse, recycling, garden waste, food waste, and bulky items.
• SUEZ operates a fleet of specialist vehicles, many of which are fitted with CCTV systems to support safety, monitoring and incident investigation. 
• In April 2026, the Council announced that it was the top performing waste authority in Essex with a recycling rate of 57.8%, securing its status among the top 6% of councils nationally for recycling rates.