LAS VEGAS, June 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Republic Services
(NYSE: RSG) is pleased to announce that collection drivers
David Bedford and Efren "Fernando"
Lopez have received prestigious Driver of the Year
awards in the large industrial and residential categories,
respectively. The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA)
celebrates the industry's best drivers each year with the
recognition based upon exemplary customer service and safety
records. Both drivers were honored this morning in Las Vegas at WasteExpo, North America's largest annual industry
tradeshow.
"Our success begins with safety," said Don Slager, president and chief executive
officer of Republic Services. "It is why we have established a
best-in-class training program that enables drivers to continually
improve. It is fundamental to our commitment to customers, and it
is how we make a positive impact each day in the communities we
serve. On behalf of all employees, I am proud to congratulate David
and Fernando, and their families, on this extraordinary
recognition."
Mr. Bedford and Mr. Lopez were 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 16
out of 21 times in the large company categories.
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. Last
year, approximately 12,300 employees earned Republic Services'
Dedicated to Safety Award, and roughly 5,800 employees received
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 eight 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.
2016 Driver of the Year: David
Bedford
Mr. Bedford began his driving career in
1981 in Boise, Idaho. Over the
past 35 years, he has earned a reputation as an ambassador for the
company and industry. He is a leader and mentor who goes above and
beyond for his customers. Mr. Bedford is known for his superior and
timely service, perfect safety record and sincere interest in
getting to know his customers.
Each week, Mr. Bedford drives an average of 600 miles to serve
approximately 35 industrial customers, collecting more than 250
tons of waste.
2016 Driver of the Year: Efren "Fernando"
Lopez
Mr. Lopez began his driving career in 1987 in
Stockton, Calif. Over the past 28
years, he has earned a reputation for his strong work ethic and
pride in keeping the cleanest truck in the local fleet. He is also
a leader and mentor who reflects all the wonderful qualities of the
employees. Mr. Lopez is known for his superior and reliable
service, perfect safety record and his dedication and commitment to
serve the community.
Mr. Lopez has collected over 160,800 tons of solid waste and
served more than six million households throughout his career.
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.