If a sanitation worker finds a wallet with money inside at a trash container, what is the appropriate action to take?

The appropriate action in this scenario involves taking proactive steps to ensure that the wallet is returned to its rightful owner, which reflects both ethical responsibility and adherence to procedures often expected of sanitation workers. If a sanitation worker finds a wallet with money inside, returning it to the person who lost it, if identifiable, is the most respectful and lawful choice.

In the given option, asking the man if he is John Smith, and then returning the wallet if he is indeed the owner, demonstrates a commitment to integrity and accountability. It also directly addresses the situation by attempting to reunite the lost item with its owner rather than simply ignoring the situation or disposing of it.

This response reinforces the importance of following ethical practices and community standards, encouraging sanitation workers to handle lost property responsibly. Such behaviors foster trust and maintain a positive relationship between workers and the community they serve.