That's an excellent and considerate question. Honestly, it's something many homeowners and businesses don't think about until they see the crew struggling. From my experience, it really depends on the specific bin and setup.
The good news is that modern, wheeled carts provided by most municipalities are designed with sanitation workers in mind. They have standardized handles, balanced weight distribution, and compatible lifting mechanisms for automated truck arms. When these bins are placed correctly—with the handles facing the street and enough clearance from cars and walls—they are relatively easy and efficient to empty. It's a smooth, quick process that saves time and reduces physical strain.
However, the challenge often comes with personal or decorative bins. Heavy, rigid plastic cans without wheels, or those with awkward lids and no grip handles, can be difficult. Overfilling them makes it worse, as contents get stuck. I've seen workers have to wrestle with bins, increasing their risk of injury. Similarly, bins placed behind locked gates or at the end of a long, cluttered driveway create unnecessary extra steps.
A little awareness goes a long way. Using the provided carts, ensuring they aren't overloaded, and placing them in an accessible, clear spot makes the sanitation workers' job significantly easier and safer. It's a simple act of respect for the essential service they provide to our community every single day.