Outcome |
Develop a machine as a removable truck attachment to collect garbage bags placed on roadsides by litter cleanup crews, with the added feature of lifting up to a 100lb single object, such as a deer carcass. |
Benefit |
Improves safety of workers collecting trash bags. Reduces worker exposure to traffic by allowing bag pickup without leaving vehicle. Reduces worker lifting injuries. Does not require a dedicated vehicle. Reduces costs and improves productivity. |
AHMCT researchers developed a prototype machine with the main purpose of collecting garbage bags placed on the roadway by cleanup crews. The machine will attach to trucks in the Caltrans fleet and will be mountable on either side of the truck with minimal modifications and impact to the truck’s current functions. This will allow one unit to be removed, swapped between sides, and even swapped between other trucks. The reduced cost of using current trucks will allow multiple units to be purchased, simultaneously increasing productivity, reducing costs, and reducing worker exposure to traffic hazards.
The machine is normally operated from the truck cab which will reduce worker exposure to traffic. It will assist workers by lifting heavy items into the truck bed.
Why We Are Pursuing This Research
Development and deployment of the DRA and similar machines improves safety of highway workers by reducing their exposure to traffic.
The primary method for removing garbage bags and debris from the roadway is by manual labor. Typically two workers will use a ¾ ton truck to collect the bagged litter deposited at the road edge by litter collection crews. The truck pulls over next to the bags and a worker exits the vehicle to throw the bags into the back of the truck. Since the time spent at any location is minimal, no shoulder closure can be placed. Workers are on foot at the road edge and vulnerable to hazards associated with passing traffic. They are also subject to physical injuries such as those associated with lifting and tripping.
Other debris removal methods previously developed include the Debris Removal Vehicles (DRVs). These increased productivity and worker safety by removing workers from the roadside. However, because they are dedicated vehicles, they are expensive to purchase, maintain, and operate. The complexity of the DRV may require dedicated operators which can be a hindrance to implementation within typical maintenance operations. Caltrans is continually seeking safer and more effective methods for removing debris from roadsides.