Published on July 16, 2026
Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management (TCRMM) will implement a new safety requirement at the Recycling and Solid Waste Center (RSWC) starting August 1, 2026. All users entering the RSWC tip floors—including residents, licensed haulers, contractors, and businesses—must wear a high visibility (hi-vis) vest while on the tip floors.
The tip floors are high-traffic industrial environments where large trucks, equipment, and constant vehicle movement create increased safety risks for visitors and staff. The new hi-vis vest requirement is intended to improve visibility, reduce the likelihood of accidents, and help ensure a safer experience for everyone who uses the facility.
“Visibility is essential in an active work zone like the tip floor,” said Leo Riley, Department Director. “This requirement will help protect users and staff by making sure everyone can be seen clearly.”
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own vest when using the tip floors. The requirement applies only to the tip floor area and does not affect the recycling or electronics dropoff sections.
For more information, visit the Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management website RecycleTompkins.org or contact the department directly.
About Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management develops and implements sustainable strategies that maximize diversion with the 4Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink) as a focal point. Learn more at RecycleTompkins.org, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Sign up to receive TCRMM updates and other county announcements via email or text.