| Econet Risk Assessment [Base Document] Assessment: Construction (paths, ponds, etc.)Scope: Activity [Task] |
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| Volunteer’s Tools: Volunteers bring their own tools which must be fit for purpose, at their own risk. The Group cannot accept any responsibility for a volunteer’s own tools unless by prior agreement.
Volunteer’s Dogs: Dogs should only be brought to sites where they will not disturb wildlife and other livestock and where it is acceptable to the management and other users of the site. Dogs are brought at the owner’s own risk, the group cannot accept any responsibility for their wellbeing. |
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| Assessment Summary: Construction (paths, ponds, etc.); | ||
| Typical uncontrolled outcomes Cement burns; respiratory distress; lower back strains; minor bruises and sprains; twisted ankles; stomach complaints |
Typical groups at risk Volunteers; other site users; general public |
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| Hazards
Contact with hand tools Slips, trips and falls Manual handling Mechanical equipment use Contact with treated timber Contact with cement dust and mortar Contact with paint or other chemicals Soil borne infections |
Controls
Tools: See “General Conservation Activities” risk assessment If using post drivers, mells or similar, hard hats must be worn. Slips, trips and falls: See “General Conservation Activities” risk assessment Demonstrate safe lifting and handling techniques. If available, use wheelbarrows and other handling aids to move heavier items. Ensure routes for transporting tools and materials are kept clear. Divert public away from working area using waring signs if available, and leave safe at end of day. Mechanical equipment must only be used by volunteers who have received the relevant training and where accreditation is in date [or who are working under the direct supervision of someone who has received such training (where the right to supervise is included in their accreditation)]. Treated timber should be dry and protective gloves worn when handling. Waste treated timber must be disposed of via waste facility and not burnt. Cement and mortar must be used in accordance with manufacture’s instructions (which must be available). Face masks should be used to protect from dust. Chemicals (e.g. fertiliser, pesticide, stump treatment, timber preservative, paint) should only be used with the prior consent of the site owner/manager. Chemicals not available to the general public should only be used by volunteers who have received the relevant training or who are working under the direct supervision of someone who has received such training. Chemicals must be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions which must be available. Recommended protective clothing must be worn when applying chemicals, e.g. PVC/rubber gloves, face masks. Always wash hands or use cleansing wipes or gel before eating, drinking or smoking. Take frequent breaks when undertaking heavy or repetitive tasks such as when hammering or using slasher or strimmer, or alternate with other (lighter) task to reduce risk of strains and injuries associated with vibration and repetitive movement. |
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| PPE
Construction (paths, ponds, etc.): Face masks; Rigger gloves; Hard hats; PVC/rubber gloves; Actual items needed may vary according to the task. |
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Risk assessment adapated from econetreading.org.uk