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NYC Sanitation Worker practice questions

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Question 1Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A sanitation worker must not place refuse in a container that exceeds what maximum weight, because the collection truck's mechanical arm is rated for that load?

  1. 100 pounds Correct answer.
  2. 25 pounds
  3. 50 pounds
  4. 200 pounds

Explanation

Collection containers used with automated or semi-automated trucks are rated for loads up to about 100 pounds; heavier containers can damage the lifting mechanism and create a lifting injury risk for the worker. Crews should refuse overloaded containers and report them rather than attempting to lift them manually.

Question 2Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

During collection, a worker spots a hypodermic needle mixed in with household trash. What is the correct action?

  1. Kick the bag into the hopper to avoid contact
  2. Pick it out by hand and place it in the truck
  3. Leave the material and follow the agency's sharps reporting procedure Correct answer.
  4. Spray the bag with water and continue loading

Explanation

Loose sharps are a bloodborne-pathogen hazard and must never be handled by hand or forced into the hopper. Workers stop, isolate the material, and notify a supervisor so the load can be handled under the agency's sharps procedure.

Question 3Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What is the primary purpose of the packer blade on a rear-loading refuse truck?

  1. To compact material and increase payload Correct answer.
  2. To sort recyclables from refuse
  3. To cool the hydraulic fluid
  4. To lift containers to the hopper

Explanation

The packer blade sweeps and compresses material inside the body, which lets the truck carry far more tonnage per trip. Sorting and container lifting are handled by other equipment or by hand.

Question 4Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident puts out a bag containing hot ashes from a fireplace. Why must the worker refuse to collect it?

  1. Ashes are too heavy for the hopper
  2. Ashes are banned from all landfills
  3. Ashes must be recycled separately
  4. Hot material can ignite the load and the truck Correct answer.

Explanation

Embers can smolder inside a packed load and ignite the truck or the disposal site, endangering the crew. Ashes must be cold and properly bagged before collection.

Question 5Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

When a worker is assigned to the rear step of a moving collection truck, which practice is required?

  1. Ride only when the truck is reversing
  2. Sit on the step to lower the center of gravity
  3. Ride with both hands free and face the direction of travel Correct answer.
  4. Hold the handhold with one hand and signal with the other

Explanation

Riders must keep both hands on the handholds, stay inside the step area, and face forward so they can see hazards and signal the driver. Sitting or riding outside the step is a common cause of serious injury.

Question 6Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which item is classified as household hazardous waste and should not be placed in the regular refuse stream?

  1. Wooden broom handle
  2. Cotton T-shirt
  3. Leftover latex paint Correct answer.
  4. Cardboard cereal box

Explanation

Leftover paint contains solvents and pigments that can leach or ignite, so it belongs in a household hazardous waste program or must be dried and solidified per local rules. The other items are ordinary refuse or recyclables.

Question 7Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker notices hydraulic fluid pooling under the truck during a route. What is the first priority?

  1. Finish the route before reporting
  2. Wipe the fluid into the gutter
  3. Add fluid and continue driving
  4. Stop work, contain the spill, and report it Correct answer.

Explanation

Hydraulic fluid is a petroleum product that can contaminate storm drains and create a slip hazard. The crew stops, contains the spill with absorbent material, and reports it so the leak is repaired before the truck continues.

Question 8Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What is the standard reason a collection crew keeps a daily route sheet or log?

  1. To replace the truck's maintenance manual
  2. To record stops, exceptions, and complaints for accountability Correct answer.
  3. To list coworkers' home addresses
  4. To calculate the driver's personal fuel use

Explanation

Route sheets document what was collected, which addresses were missed or refused, and any complaints, giving supervisors a record for follow-up and performance review. They are not a substitute for maintenance records or personal data.

Question 9Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident's container is placed behind a parked car so the mechanical arm cannot reach it. What should the worker do?

  1. Leave the container and note the obstruction on the route sheet Correct answer.
  2. Ask the resident to move the car immediately
  3. Drag the container through the gap and load it by hand
  4. Skip the entire street

Explanation

Obstructed containers that cannot be safely serviced are documented as exceptions so the resident can be notified and the material picked up later. Moving a car or dragging a heavy container through a tight gap creates injury and property-damage risk.

Question 10Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which practice best reduces noise complaints on an early-morning residential route?

  1. Idling the engine at high RPM between stops
  2. Dropping containers from the truck to save time
  3. Using quiet-mode equipment and setting containers down Correct answer.
  4. Honking to warn residents before each stop

Explanation

Noise ordinances typically restrict collection hours and require crews to avoid unnecessary banging, honking, and engine revving. Setting containers down and using the truck's quiet mode lowers decibel levels without slowing service.

Question 11Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What is the main safety reason workers wear high-visibility vests on the route?

  1. To make them visible to traffic in low light Correct answer.
  2. To keep their uniforms clean
  3. To protect against chemical splashes
  4. To identify their rank within the crew

Explanation

High-visibility garments with reflective material make workers visible to drivers in dim light, rain, and fog, which is critical when crews work near traffic lanes. They are not chemical protective equipment.

Question 12Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker finds a sealed container labeled with a corrosive symbol in a curbside pile. What is the appropriate response?

  1. Pour it into a drain and recycle the container
  2. Open it to identify the contents
  3. Place it in the hopper with the rest of the load
  4. Leave it in place and notify a supervisor Correct answer.

Explanation

Unknown or labeled hazardous materials are not collected in the regular stream; the worker isolates the item and reports it so a trained hazardous-materials responder can handle it. Opening or pouring the contents exposes the crew to burns and fumes.

Question 13Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What is the correct way to lift a heavy bag of refuse by hand?

  1. Keep the back straight, bend the knees, and lift close to the body Correct answer.
  2. Bend at the waist and twist toward the truck
  3. Lift with a jerking motion to clear the ground quickly
  4. Hold the bag at arm's length for better balance

Explanation

Safe lifting keeps the load close to the body, uses the leg muscles, and avoids twisting, which is a leading cause of back injury among collection workers. Jerking or reaching out increases strain on the spine.

Question 14Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

During winter, a worker must clear a path to a container on an icy sidewalk. Which action is most appropriate?

  1. Spread salt from the truck on the private walkway
  2. Skip the address until spring
  3. Walk on the grass to avoid the ice
  4. Use short steps and wear footwear with traction, and report the hazard Correct answer.

Explanation

Slips on ice are a leading winter injury, so workers use traction footwear, take short deliberate steps, and report unsafe conditions. Crews generally cannot treat private property or skip serviceable addresses.

Question 15Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What does the term 'white goods' refer to in residential collection?

  1. Bleached paper products
  2. Snow and ice removal debris
  3. Medical waste in white bags
  4. Large appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines Correct answer.

Explanation

White goods are bulky appliances, which often require a special appointment because of their size and the refrigerants or capacitors they may contain. They are not part of routine curbside pickup in most programs.

Question 16Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident asks why glass bottles should be separated from other recyclables in some programs. What is the best explanation?

  1. Glass is heavier than metal
  2. Broken glass can contaminate paper and injure workers at the sorting facility Correct answer.
  3. Glass cannot be recycled
  4. Glass must be sent to a landfill

Explanation

Broken glass shards contaminate paper bales and pose a cut hazard to workers on sorting lines, so many programs collect it separately or in designated containers. Glass is highly recyclable when kept clean and separated.

Question 17Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which condition on a collection truck most directly affects stopping distance?

  1. Color of the truck's cab
  2. Number of route sheets on board
  3. Worn brake pads and tires Correct answer.
  4. Type of uniform worn by the crew

Explanation

Brake condition and tire tread determine how quickly a loaded truck can stop, especially on wet pavement. Cosmetic or administrative factors do not affect braking performance.

Question 18Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What is the purpose of a pre-trip inspection before a collection route begins?

  1. To assign lunch breaks
  2. To confirm the driver's seniority
  3. To check fluids, brakes, lights, and tires for defects Correct answer.
  4. To count the number of containers on the route

Explanation

A pre-trip inspection identifies mechanical defects such as low fluid, faulty lights, or worn brakes before the truck enters traffic. Defects are recorded and reported so they can be repaired.

Question 19Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident places recyclables in a plastic bag inside the recycling cart. How should the worker respond under typical program rules?

  1. Leave the bagged material and tag it as not accepted Correct answer.
  2. Accept the bag because plastic is recyclable
  3. Place the whole bag in the recycling hopper
  4. Empty the bag at the curb and leave the bag

Explanation

Bagged recyclables cannot be sorted efficiently at the facility and often end up as contamination, so many programs leave the material with a tag explaining that items must be loose. Emptying bags at the curb creates litter and is not the crew's job.

Question 20Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Why do collection trucks use a rear-view camera and backup alarm?

  1. To record the crew's conversations
  2. To monitor fuel efficiency
  3. To warn and show people behind the truck during reversing Correct answer.
  4. To measure the weight of the load

Explanation

Reversing is one of the most dangerous operations for a collection truck, so cameras and audible alarms alert pedestrians and crew members who may be behind the vehicle. Weight and fuel are measured by other systems.

Question 21Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker is bitten by a stray dog while servicing a container. What is the correct first step?

  1. Confront the animal's owner
  2. Finish the street before seeking care
  3. Wash the wound and report the bite for medical follow-up Correct answer.
  4. Apply a bandage and say nothing to avoid paperwork

Explanation

Animal bites carry infection risk, so the wound is washed promptly and the incident is reported so the worker can receive medical evaluation and the animal can be tracked for rabies status. Confronting the owner is unsafe and not the crew's role.

Question 22Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What does 'contamination' mean when used in a recycling program?

  1. Any material that has been rained on
  2. Material that is not accepted in the program and lowers the value of the load Correct answer.
  3. Any item placed in a container after dark
  4. Material that has been compacted by the truck

Explanation

Contamination is non-program material, such as plastic film or food-soiled paper, mixed into recyclables; it reduces the quality of bales and can cause whole loads to be rejected. Weather and compaction are separate issues.

Question 23Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A collection truck's hopper jams repeatedly on the same route. Which action reflects sound troubleshooting?

  1. Stop the equipment, lock out power, and inspect for the obstruction Correct answer.
  2. Pour water into the hopper to loosen the material
  3. Force the packer blade repeatedly to clear it
  4. Continue the route and let the next shift handle it

Explanation

Jams are cleared only after the hydraulic system is shut down and locked out, because stored pressure can cause the blade to move unexpectedly. Forcing the blade or adding water risks injury and equipment damage.

Question 24Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A supervisor asks a worker to service a stop where a resident has repeatedly placed hazardous material at the curb. What is the best course of action?

  1. Remove the hazardous material and dispose of it in the truck
  2. Service the stop, document the recurring violation, and refer it for enforcement Correct answer.
  3. Ask a coworker to handle the stop without telling the supervisor
  4. Refuse all future service to the address without documentation

Explanation

Recurring violations are handled through documentation and the agency's enforcement process, not by informal refusal or by dumping hazardous material into the regular load. A record supports warnings or fines and protects the crew.

Question 25Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which factor most affects whether a collection route can be completed safely during a snow emergency?

  1. The age of the route sheets
  2. The number of recycling bins on the route
  3. Access to streets and the condition of the road surface Correct answer.
  4. The color of the collection containers

Explanation

Plowed or blocked streets and icy surfaces determine whether a truck can reach containers and stop safely, so snow emergencies often trigger route changes or suspensions. Container color, bin counts, and paperwork age do not govern safety.

Question 26Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A collection worker is assigned to a route where residents set out material in clear plastic bags rather than rigid containers. Which handling approach is most consistent with typical residential collection practice?

  1. Lift each bag by its tied neck and place it in the hopper, checking for sharp or protruding items first Correct answer.
  2. Drag bags along the pavement to the truck to save lifting effort
  3. Compress bags against the truck body to reduce their volume before loading
  4. Toss bags from a distance so the worker stays clear of the hopper opening

Explanation

Bags should be lifted with a controlled grip near the tied neck so the load stays balanced and the worker can see sharp or protruding contents before loading. Dragging, compressing against the truck, or throwing from a distance all increase the chance of spills, injury, or material landing outside the hopper.

Question 27Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident asks a worker what should happen to used motor oil from a home oil change. What is the most accurate guidance for a New York City collection program?

  1. It can be poured down a household drain because it dilutes in water
  2. It can be mixed into the recycling cart if the bottle is labeled
  3. It can be placed at the curb in a sealed container with regular refuse
  4. It should be taken to a designated household hazardous waste drop-off or special collection event Correct answer.

Explanation

Motor oil is a household hazardous waste and is not accepted in curbside refuse or recycling because it can contaminate soil, water, and recycling streams. The proper route is a designated hazardous waste drop-off site or a scheduled special collection event.

Question 28Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker must move a fully loaded 55-gallon refuse container that has no wheels across a short distance. Which approach best protects the worker from injury?

  1. Bend at the waist, keep legs straight, and pull the container backward quickly
  2. Lift the container to chest height and carry it
  3. Lean the container and roll it on its bottom edge, using the legs to push Correct answer.
  4. Twist the torso while dragging the container sideways

Explanation

Tilting and rolling a heavy container on its edge keeps the load close to the body and uses leg strength rather than the lower back. Bending at the waist with straight legs, lifting to chest height, or twisting while dragging all place excessive strain on the spine.

Question 29Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

During a heat wave, a collection worker begins to feel dizzy, stops sweating, and becomes confused. What do these signs most likely indicate?

  1. A normal reaction to physical exertion that needs no action
  2. Mild dehydration that will resolve with a short rest
  3. Carbon monoxide exposure from the truck cab
  4. Heat stroke, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate cooling and emergency medical help Correct answer.

Explanation

Confusion and the absence of sweating in hot conditions are classic signs of heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency. The worker needs immediate cooling and emergency medical assistance rather than rest or continued work.

Question 30Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A collection truck is backing into an alley to service containers. Which practice best protects pedestrians during the maneuver?

  1. Sound the horn once and continue backing without stopping
  2. Back up quickly so the truck spends less time in the alley
  3. Rely only on the backup alarm to warn pedestrians
  4. Use a spotter when available and stop if visibility is unclear Correct answer.

Explanation

Backing is one of the highest-risk maneuvers for collection trucks, so a spotter and a stop-when-unsure rule are standard safeguards. Speed, alarm-only reliance, or a single horn blast do not ensure the path is clear behind the truck.

Question 31Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident places a mattress at the curb with regular refuse on a normal collection day. Under typical New York City residential collection rules, what is the appropriate response?

  1. Place it in the truck with the regular refuse because it fits in the hopper
  2. Cut it into pieces and put the pieces in the recycling cart
  3. Take it only if the resident pays the worker directly
  4. Leave it and explain that bulky items require a separate appointment or special collection Correct answer.

Explanation

Mattresses and other bulky items are generally not collected as part of routine curbside refuse and require a separate bulky-item appointment or special collection. Workers should leave the item and inform the resident of the correct process.

Question 32Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker sees a small spill of a unknown liquid on the roadway near a container. Which action is most appropriate?

  1. Keep people away, notify the supervisor, and follow spill-response procedures Correct answer.
  2. Wash the spill into the storm drain with water from the truck
  3. Cover it with refuse and continue the route
  4. Ignore it because roadway spills are not the crew's responsibility

Explanation

An unknown liquid may be hazardous, so the crew should secure the area, report it, and follow established spill-response procedures rather than improvising. Washing it into a drain or covering it with refuse can spread contamination and create a larger hazard.

Question 33Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What is the primary purpose of the rear-loading hopper's packing cycle on a refuse collection truck?

  1. To cool the hydraulic system during long routes
  2. To sort recyclables from refuse automatically
  3. To weigh each load for billing purposes
  4. To compact material so the truck can carry more between trips to the disposal site Correct answer.

Explanation

The packing cycle compacts refuse inside the body so the truck holds more material and makes fewer trips to unload. It does not sort material, cool the hydraulics, or weigh individual loads.

Question 34Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker notices that a resident's recycling cart contains a garden hose coiled among bottles and cans. How should this be handled under typical recycling program rules?

  1. Pull the hose out and place it in the refuse stream, then collect the recyclables Correct answer.
  2. Refuse to collect the cart and leave it at the curb indefinitely
  3. Place the hose in the hopper with the recyclables because it is plastic
  4. Leave the hose in the cart and collect the whole cart as recycling

Explanation

Garden hoses are tanglers that jam sorting equipment and are not accepted in curbside recycling, so they belong in the refuse stream. Removing the hose allows the recyclables to be collected while keeping the contamination out of the recycling load.

Question 35Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which document or system is typically used to record that a particular address was serviced and to note exceptions such as blocked access?

  1. The route sheet or electronic route log Correct answer.
  2. The worker's personal calendar
  3. The truck's registration card
  4. The disposal facility receipt only

Explanation

Route sheets or electronic route logs document which stops were serviced and record exceptions such as blocked access or contamination. These records support accountability and help resolve resident complaints.

Question 36Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker is directed to collect refuse from a building whose containers are stored in a basement and must be wheeled up a steep ramp. Which concern should be raised with the supervisor before proceeding?

  1. Whether the ramp surface and slope allow safe control of the loaded container Correct answer.
  2. Whether the truck's radio is working
  3. Whether the resident prefers morning or afternoon collection
  4. Whether the building has enough recycling bins

Explanation

Wheeled containers on a steep ramp can run away from the worker or tip, so the slope and surface condition are the key safety concern to raise before starting. The other items do not affect the immediate physical risk of moving loaded containers up the ramp.

Question 37Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which item is accepted in typical curbside recycling programs but should be empty and rinsed before placement in the cart?

  1. A glass food jar Correct answer.
  2. A used paper towel
  3. A plastic grocery bag
  4. A ceramic coffee mug

Explanation

Glass food jars are commonly accepted in curbside recycling and should be empty and rinsed to reduce contamination. Plastic bags, used paper towels, and ceramic mugs are generally not accepted in curbside recycling carts.

Question 38Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker observes that a resident has set out refuse in a container with no lid and the material is blowing into the street. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Collect the loose material and leave the container without comment
  2. Refuse to service the address permanently
  3. Ignore the blowing material because it is the resident's responsibility
  4. Collect the refuse, note the condition, and inform the resident of the lid requirement Correct answer.

Explanation

Loose refuse that blows into the street creates litter and safety problems, so the crew should service the stop, document the condition, and inform the resident about container requirements. Ignoring the problem or permanently refusing service does not address the litter.

Question 39Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A collection worker is asked to enter a gated rear yard alone to retrieve containers while the rest of the crew continues down the block. Which response is most appropriate?

  1. Enter alone and move quickly to catch up with the crew
  2. Prop the gate open and leave it open for the rest of the route
  3. Skip the stop without notifying anyone
  4. Ask a co-worker to accompany the entry or confirm the yard is safe before entering Correct answer.

Explanation

Entering an enclosed rear yard alone creates a risk of isolation, dog encounters, or blocked escape routes, so a second worker or a confirmed safe entry is appropriate. Propping gates open or silently skipping the stop creates other problems.

Question 40Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which condition most directly increases the risk of a collection truck rolling away while the crew is loading at the curb?

  1. The route sheet is incomplete
  2. The truck's rear lights are dim
  3. The parking brake is not set and the transmission is not in park Correct answer.
  4. The hopper is only partly full

Explanation

A truck can roll if the parking brake is not applied and the transmission is not in park, especially on a slope. Lighting, hopper level, and paperwork do not directly affect whether the vehicle stays stationary.

Question 41Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident complains that a collection worker refused to take a bag because it contained needles. What is the most accurate explanation of the worker's action?

  1. Sharps pose a puncture and exposure hazard and require special disposal, not curbside refuse Correct answer.
  2. The worker was required to leave all medical waste at the curb by state law
  3. The worker was avoiding extra weight in the hopper
  4. The worker was enforcing a rule that only clear bags are accepted

Explanation

Loose needles and other sharps can puncture bags and injure workers, so they are not accepted in curbside refuse and must be handled through a sharps disposal program. The refusal is a safety measure, not a weight, bag-color, or blanket medical-waste rule.

Question 42Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

During a snow emergency, which factor most directly determines whether a collection route can be completed safely?

  1. The number of residents who called the complaint line
  2. The color of the collection truck
  3. The condition of streets and access to containers along the route Correct answer.
  4. The number of recycling bins on the route

Explanation

Snow and ice affect traction, stopping distance, and whether containers can be reached, so street and access conditions are the decisive safety factor. Complaint volume, truck color, and bin counts do not determine whether the route can be run safely.

Question 43Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker is loading refuse when a bag splits and spills food waste and broken glass onto the sidewalk. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Leave the spill for the next collection day
  2. Kick the debris into the gutter and continue loading
  3. Stop, clear the area, and clean up the spill using appropriate tools before continuing Correct answer.
  4. Cover the spill with a traffic cone and drive away

Explanation

Broken glass and food waste on a sidewalk create slip, cut, and sanitation hazards, so the crew should stop and clean the area with proper tools. Pushing debris into the gutter, leaving it, or driving away transfers the hazard to the public.

Question 44Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

What does the term 'putrescible' refer to in the context of municipal waste collection?

  1. Organic waste that decomposes and produces odors and leachate Correct answer.
  2. Material that can be recycled into new products
  3. Waste generated only by commercial businesses
  4. Material that is too large for the hopper

Explanation

Putrescible waste is organic material that decomposes, causing odors, attracting pests, and producing leachate. The term does not describe recyclability, size, or the source of the waste.

Question 45Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker is assigned to a route with many narrow one-way streets. Which practice best supports safe and efficient completion of the route?

  1. Drive past the stop and walk back against traffic to load containers
  2. Back up frequently to reach containers on both sides of the street
  3. Plan the route so the truck travels with traffic and stops on the same side as the containers Correct answer.
  4. Load containers from the middle of the roadway

Explanation

Planning the route so the truck moves with traffic and stops on the container side reduces backing, crossing, and exposure to moving vehicles. Walking against traffic, frequent backing, and loading from the roadway all increase risk.

Question 46Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which of the following is the best example of source reduction in a residential waste program?

  1. Using a reusable shopping bag instead of taking a new plastic bag at the store Correct answer.
  2. Compacting refuse more tightly in the truck
  3. Placing more material in the recycling cart
  4. Sending more waste to a landfill

Explanation

Source reduction means preventing waste from being generated in the first place, such as choosing a reusable bag instead of a disposable one. Recycling, compacting, and landfilling manage waste after it has been created.

Question 47Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A crew repeatedly finds that a particular corner container is blocked by double-parked cars at the same time each week. What is the most effective response?

  1. Skip the stop permanently without telling anyone
  2. Report the recurring access problem so scheduling or enforcement can address it Correct answer.
  3. Return later in the day without notifying the supervisor
  4. Move the container into the street and leave it there

Explanation

A recurring access problem is best resolved by documenting and reporting it so scheduling or parking enforcement can act. Permanently skipping the stop, moving the container into the street, or making an unreported return trip does not solve the underlying issue.

Question 48Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A worker notices hydraulic fluid leaking from a fitting on the truck during a route. Which combination of actions is most appropriate?

  1. Stop operating the equipment, contain the leak, and report it for repair Correct answer.
  2. Wipe the fitting with a rag and keep packing refuse
  3. Continue the route and top off the fluid at the end of the day
  4. Ignore the leak because hydraulic fluid evaporates quickly

Explanation

A hydraulic leak can cause loss of control, slips, and environmental contamination, so the equipment should be stopped, the leak contained, and the problem reported for repair. Continuing to operate or simply wiping the fitting does not address the underlying failure.

Question 49Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

Which statement best describes the correct use of personal protective equipment for a collection worker handling refuse by hand?

  1. A dust mask replaces the need for gloves
  2. Gloves and sturdy footwear should be worn, and hands should be washed after handling waste Correct answer.
  3. Eye protection is only needed when driving the truck
  4. Gloves are optional if the worker is careful

Explanation

Gloves and sturdy footwear protect against cuts, punctures, and slips, and handwashing after handling waste reduces exposure to pathogens. A mask does not replace gloves, and eye protection may be needed during handling tasks as well as driving.

Question 50Sanitation Worker written examination (content domains not enumerated in the source)

A resident asks why a collection worker is checking the recycling cart before emptying it. Which explanation best reflects the purpose of that check?

  1. To decide whether the cart should be replaced
  2. To count how many items the resident placed in the cart
  3. To determine whether the resident has paid a recycling fee
  4. To identify contamination that could degrade the recycling load or damage equipment Correct answer.

Explanation

A quick visual check identifies contamination such as plastic bags, hoses, or hazardous items that can degrade the recycling stream or jam sorting equipment. The check is not for counting items, verifying payment, or deciding on cart replacement.