LAS VEGAS, June 2, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Republic
Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is pleased to announce that 22-year
commercial collection driver Todd
Colarusso received the prestigious Driver of the
Year award, given by the National Waste & Recycling
Association. Driver of the Year award winners are celebrated for
their exemplary customer service and safety records. The 2015 award
recipients were honored this morning in Las Vegas at WasteExpo, North America's largest annual industry
tradeshow.
"We prioritize safety above all else," said Don Slager, president and chief executive
officer of Republic Services. "Safety is foundational to who we
are, what we believe and how we provide service to customers. Todd
represents the very best in our people, programs and practices, and
he embodies our commitment to the customers and communities we
serve. On behalf of all our employees, I am proud to congratulate
Todd and his family on this extraordinary recognition."
Mr. Colarusso was selected out of more than 1,000 driver
nominations submitted by industry peers from across the country.
Since 2009, Republic drivers have earned this top honor 14 out of
18 times in the large company categories.
"Todd's safety record, commitment to his company and dedication
to customer service are a source of pride for the entire waste and
recycling industry," said Sharon H.
Kneiss, president and chief executive officer of the
National Waste & Recycling Association.
Republic Services' relentless commitment to safety led to the
formation of a comprehensive, industry-leading safety program that
relies on continual training to reduce accident frequency.
Republic Services' drivers begin their employment with week-long
equipment training that is focused on skill set verification at one
of 22 driver training safety centers nationwide. This initial
training is followed by weeks of in-cab instruction and
evaluation. Throughout their tenure, Republic Services'
drivers participate in Focus 6®, a monthly
supervisor-led training protocol focused on eliminating the six
types of industry-specific accidents that occur most frequently, or
have the potential for the highest degree of human tragedy.
Last year, approximately 12,300 employees earned Republic
Services' Dedicated to Safety Award, and 5,800 employees received
the Dedicated to Excellence recognition. Based on Occupational
Safety and Health Administration data, Republic Services' safety
performance has been 42 percent better than the industry average
over the past seven years.
For more than 25 years, the Driver of the Year program has
honored drivers who have upheld the field of solid waste management
as an honorable occupation, and have conducted themselves and
operated their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner. Drivers
from the private and public sector in the U.S. are eligible for
nomination.
2015 Driver of the Year: Todd
Colarusso, Scottdale,
PA
Mr. Colarusso began his driving career in
1993 in Scottdale, PA. Over the
past 22 years, he has earned a reputation as a leader and mentor
who goes above and beyond for his customers. Mr. Colarusso is known
for his superior and timely service, perfect safety record and
sincere interest in getting to know his customers.
Each week, Mr. Colarusso drives an average of 832 miles to serve
approximately 450 commercial customers, collecting more than 120
tons of waste. He is often called upon to mentor new drivers,
extending his knowledge and dedication to service across his
division. Mr. Colarusso is a devoted family man who is actively
involved at his church and within his community.
About Republic Services
Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is an industry leader in U.S.
recycling and non-hazardous solid waste. Through its
subsidiaries, Republic's collection companies, recycling centers,
transfer stations and landfills focus on providing effective
solutions to make proper waste disposal effortless for their
commercial, industrial, municipal, residential and oilfield
customers. We'll handle it from here.TM, the
brand's tagline, lets customers know they can count on Republic to
provide a superior experience while fostering a sustainable Blue
PlanetTM for future generations to enjoy a cleaner,
safer and healthier world.
For more information, visit the Republic Services website at
RepublicServices.com. "Like" Republic on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/RepublicServices and follow on Twitter
@RepublicService.
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SOURCE Republic Services, Inc.