Meet Andy Green, artic driver

Andy joined TJ in 2016 and enjoys the freedom of being on the road. His interests outside of work include motorcycles, going to heavy metal rock concerts, his annual camping/motorcycling holiday and holidays abroad.

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE?

My role involves transferring waste from one place to another via artic lorry. This could be transporting waste from one of our Materials Recovery Facilities to the next point, whether that be a recycling depot, specialist recycling facility or incinerator, or moving old mattresses to our disposal partner in Kent. I occasionally do RORO work too. 

My day usually starts early with a trip to one of the Materials Recovery Facilities at Tipner, Southampton or Yapton to pick up my load, and once I know where I need to get to, I’ll plan the best route to ensure I get there in the best time. On each job I’ll complete compliance paperwork and make sure I have the correct PPE to go on site.

WHAT IS YOUR CAREER BACKGROUND?

My first job was manufacturing baby milk at the SMA factory in Havant. I got my HGV licence in 1991 and then in 1993 I became a bus driver, a job that I remained in for 24 years. I decided that I needed a change and I had friends who worked for TJ who said it was a great place to work. So I applied and I haven’t looked back since! I really enjoy the job I’m doing and you can’t ask for more than that!

WHAT ARE THE MOST REWARDING PARTS OF YOUR ROLE?

You’re responsible for your own day and for everything you do during your working hours and I like that feeling. I’m responsible for ensuring that all my loads are safe, that I’m driving safely and that I’m being considerate of other road users. It gives me great job satisfaction being trusted to get on with my daily tasks and I always ensure I get the jobs done well and in good time.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF YOUR ROLE?

Traffic can be challenging at times, but as long as you have patience and a calm temperament you can deal with it. My aim is always to get the job done and get back safely. It’s important to be considerate of the people around you on the roads and essential to be able to handle your vehicle well.

It can also be challenging to get on and off a landfill site in a HGV; many vehicles get stuck and need towing out so I’m proud to say that I’ve always been able to get on and off without any assistance! 

HOW HAS TJ SUPPORTED YOU SINCE YOU JOINED?

They provided me with everything I expected and more when I joined. I started off driving tippers and progressed onto artics after a year. TJ has been really supportive; any additional training I’ve requested, they’ve provided. I couldn’t have asked for more. 

I had a knee replacement operation in December and TJ has been great about that too. I was going crazy doing nothing at home, so they’ve allowed me to come back on light duties. They’ve been so supportive and it makes me feel really valued.

WHAT DO YOU PRIDE YOURSELF ON?

I pride myself on doing a good job, getting all my tasks ticked off and keeping everyone safe. Since having my op and being on light duties I truly miss the driving and I can’t wait to get back to it.

WHY IS TJ A GREAT PLACE TO WORK?

The back up you receive from the entire team is great – there’s always someone to talk to if you need assistance, someone who will listen or provide help with routing – whatever you need, the office staff are always really helpful. You can also call upon other drivers to help and they’ll give you support in all areas too. It’s a really good team to work with and all my experiences since joining TJ have been positive.

Find out more about our services and meet other team members on our blog thread…