Louhannais: In the face of extreme heat, recycling centers are changing their hours

On concrete, the temperature can easily reach 50°C. At the Louhans waste disposal center, workers are relieved to soon see their schedules changed. "During the heatwaves, we felt dizzy in the middle of the afternoon. We don't really have any shaded areas, we're constantly being asked to do something; it was unbearable," says Laurent, who has been on the job for five months.

Starting this Monday, July 7th, and continuing until August 31st, the hours are being modified. The extreme heatwave that hit the country at the end of June highlighted the urgent need for Sivom management to adapt working hours. "The president was responsive," assures Béatrice Masnada, head of the waste disposal centers. This adaptation, according to her, is nothing extraordinary. "Summer hours are already in place at other waste disposal centers, those in northern Bresse, for example," she points out.

All summer long, the seven Sivom recycling centers close at 1 p.m., but open earlier. With a few exceptions , it is now possible to drop off waste as early as 6 a.m. "This measure is beneficial both for professionals who spend their day in the sun and for people who come to drop off their waste," assures Béatrice Masnada, conceding that it requires some reorganizations for users. She also points out that these changes are not reductions in activity, but rather a shift. "For some agents, this represents an increase in the number of hours per week," she emphasizes.

Gilles, a Louhans resident who came to clear up the mess, understands the situation. "It's legitimate, you have to put yourself in their shoes," he agrees, pointing to the two officers busy on the hot asphalt. "But hey, it's true that many people take advantage of the summer holidays to sort their waste, and it's a shame they can't empty their bulky items in the afternoon; it's one less service," he adds.

A few steps away, Gregory came to empty his construction rubble. "I found the information on their website, and I find it completely normal. We have to adapt the working world to the times. I work outside myself, I can only understand them," says this Montponnais.

The Sivom has therefore implemented a communication strategy for users. A large sign has been installed at the entrance. While it is currently temporary, the change in hours for the two summer months should become permanent after the next general meeting, which will be held in September.