Republic Services' Employee Honored with Driver of the Year Award

Best-in-Class Training Program Producing Better Drivers and Safer Communities

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Jun 02, 2015, 03:11 ET

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 Planet^TM 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.