Improper Disposal of Chemical Injures Sanitation Worker

A Garden City sanitation worker suffered burns to his body after a resident failed to properly dispose of chemicals, the Department of Public Works confirmed Friday.

The incident happened last Wednesday while the worker was on route collecting refuse in the western section.

The unknown chemical, which was placed in the rubbish collection, was in a container hidden from view in a dark colored bag, according to Mayor John Watras. Upon collecting the rubbish, which was placed curbside, the worker was sprayed with the chemicals as he packed off the hopper, the mayor said.

"The liquid dampened his uniform and skin, which caused severe chemical burns to his body," according to this week's Mayor's Message. "Thankfully he was not seriously injured."

Public Works director Robert Mangan told Patch the worker went to the hospital at the end of his route, noting the last time a worker was injured during collection was "many years ago."

The Garden City Police Department was not notified, according to commissioner Kenneth Jackson.

According to the village's sanitation guidelines: oil or chemical drums, cartridges or explosives, chemicals, paints, gasoline or any other flammable or volatile and combustible liquids will not be collected.

Mayor Watras reminds residents of the Town of Hempstead's monthly S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) program for the safe, legal disposal of chemicals, as well as other items. A registered, professional disposal company will discard "polluting materials" free of charge for residents. Click here for a list of accepted items. The next scheduled S.T.O.P. program is Aug. 11 at Hempstead Village Department of Public Works, 450 Milburn Avenue in Hempstead.

Residents are also encouraged to call the Village Yard at 465-4032.