Safety is everyone’s responsibility including volunteers. You, as a volunteer, are responsible for carrying out litter collection activities in a safe and healthy manner.
The safety of you, and your team is the primary consideration. This safety orientation will provide you with the information that is needed to help ensure the safety of your team.
Adopt a Spot | Hazards
There are potentially numerous hazards that you may encounter while collecting litter, including:
- traffic (distracted, speeding)
- hazardous items or materials (needles, animal carcass, batteries)
- slips, trips, uneven surfaces
- inclement weather (lightning, hail, rain, heat)
- heavy items
- insects, animals (bees, dogs)
- other hazards determined by the group during the Field Level Hazard Assessment (completed on-location)
Adopt a Spot | Hazard Control
To manage the risk of the hazards, these controls must be in place. The FLHA may identify other requirements as well:
- Traffic signage is required when working along a roadway (supplied and installed by the Town) indicating volunteers working in the area
- Do not attempt to pick-up heavy items
- Do not touch needles, or other hazardous waste such as animal carcasses, unknown containers, or car batteries
- Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), must be worn including:
- Closed toe shoes (steel toe is ideal)
- Traffic vests (Town to provide up to 16 vests)
- Gloves
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Stay hydrated; drink plenty of water
- Take periodic rest breaks, and seek shade when necessary
- Stay off the road surface