What should a sanitation worker do if they see hazardous materials?

When a sanitation worker encounters hazardous materials, the most appropriate action is to report them to a supervisor immediately. This response is essential because hazardous materials can pose significant risks to health and safety, not just for the sanitation worker but also for colleagues and the public. By notifying a supervisor, the worker ensures that the situation is addressed by trained personnel who can manage the materials safely and according to established procedures.

Handling hazardous materials without proper training or equipment can lead to exposure, contamination, or accidents. Similarly, ignoring such materials can exacerbate the situation, putting everyone in the vicinity at risk. Cleaning up hazardous materials on one's own is often not advisable because it may require specific protocols and protective gear to ensure that the materials are dealt with safely and responsibly. Therefore, the correct course of action is to report the situation so that it can be handled appropriately.