OREANDA-NEWS. June 08, 2016. 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.