The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) is preparing for a possible pause in trash, recycling, and mechanical street sweeping operations this week to protect frontline sanitation workers. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Wednesday, August 28, warning that the heat index could climb to over 96 degrees. Recognizing the unique challenges Solid Waste workers face while performing their essential duties, DPW is reevaluating its operations to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of this vital workforce.

Given that extreme temperatures pose significant health risks, crew members will begin their routes early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Weather conditions will be closely monitored, and crews will be pulled from their routes if conditions become unsafe. In addition to this precautionary measure, DPW will also amend its make-up-day process for trash and recycling pickups if services are disrupted due to the heat. Previously, make-up days for missed pickups due to service disruptions were postponed to the weekend. Now, when service routes are disrupted, DPW will resume collection on the next optimal business day. This updated process will allow crews to work more efficiently and to resume service where they left off before the disruption.

“As extreme temperatures continue to challenge our Solid Waste operations, this update to our procedures is a crucial step in protecting our frontline crews,” said DPW Acting Director Khalil Zaied. “Our dedicated sanitation workers face significant risks, especially during extreme heat, and it’s our responsibility to prioritize their safety. By proactively planning to adjust operations ahead of predicted high temperatures, we’re taking a necessary step to safeguard their health and well-being. We hope the public will join us in understanding the importance of these measures and work together to support our workers and create a cleaner, healthier Baltimore.”

Here’s how residents can prepare for next-day trash and recycling services:

• Trash – Ensure trash is tightly closed and neatly placed in its designated pick-up location the night before.
• Recycling – You can use any container—paper bags, cardboard boxes, old laundry baskets, or even a trash can (just mark it “recycling”). There is only one rule: Do not place recycling in plastic bags. Fill your container with approved recycling materials and place it outside in its designated pick-up location the night before.
• Stay tuned to DPW’s socials (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram) for service updates. Residents can also call 311 for the latest service disruption information.

DPW thanks the City’s residents for their patience and understanding as it takes this necessary next step to support its invaluable frontline employees. DPW is committed to its continued focus on protecting its dedicated workforce and ensuring they can perform their vital work under safer and more supportive conditions.

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DPW reminds residents and water customers to report water/sewer emergencies to the City’s 311 call center. To report a water/sewer emergency, such as a water main break, Baltimore City residents can dial 311, and Baltimore County residents can call (443) 263-2220. Requests can also be submitted online or through the Balt311 mobile app, available on Google Play for Android users or the Apple App Store for iOS users.