BADCOG members attend work parties to participate in wildlife conservation management. This activity should be both enjoyable and productive, but it should also be safe for all. The aim of this page is to remind members of the potential risks and hazards that they might encounter on a BADCOG work party.

A first aid kit is always available at every work party for minor injuries, together with a mobile phone for calling emergency services if needed.

Safety always comes first when looking after the local environment!

At a BADCOG work party, volunteers should always:

  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
  • Only undertake tasks with which they feel safe and capable of doing.
  • If in doubt, stop the job and seek the help of others.
  • Only use tools and equipment that they feel confident and safe in using and that are appropriate for the task.
  • Only use tools that are in good order and not defective.
  • Be aware of the environment and any potential hazards, such as ditches/dykes/ponds, uneven surfaces/trip hazards, wasp/hornet/bee nests and road traffic.
  • Be aware of others and their activities.
  • When working at height, be aware of those at ground level.
  • When working at ground level, be aware of those working at height.
  • When using a rake or other similar equipment, be aware of those working behind.
  • Avoid walking directly behind anyone using a rake or other similar equipment.
  • Avoid areas where coppicing and pollarding is taking place, unless assisting.
  • Keep well clear of anyone using a scythe and avoid areas where power tools are being used (e.g. brush cutter/mower/hedge trimmer), unless assisting an operator.
  • When using machinery, be aware of others in the vicinity, shutting down power tools if people and/or animals are too close.
  • Wear the appropriate safety equipment when using tools (ear defenders/goggles/hard hat/gloves).
  • Use ladders as recommended, with one person holding the ladder for extra safety.
  • If working alone, inform at least one committee member of the location of the work and your expected time of completion. Inform them again upon completion of the task.
  • Ask for assistance when pulling or lifting heavy loads.
  • When not in use, store tools in a manner that is not a hazard to others.
  • Keep a safe distance from fires, and only light fires when conditions are safe to do so.
  • After work parties, check for any insect bites or ticks, and seek medical advice if necessary.
  • Avoid contact with water to prevent any possibility of contracting a waterborne disease/infection.