Reducing Risks for Volunteers in Beach Clean-Up Activities
09/08/2024
Volunteering for beach clean-ups is a wonderful way to help protect marine life and keep our coastlines beautiful. However, it's important to keep volunteers safe during these activities. Here are some easy steps to minimise risks and ensure a smooth, safe event:
Before the event:
As part of planning the beach clean event, make sure to think about the following:
- Set age restrictions for volunteers and that any minors are supervised at all times with parental consent
- Check your insurance policy covers this activity. Make sure you have public liability insurance in case there are any accidents or injuries.
- Look to have a waiver and consent for so volunteers understand the risks that the clean up involves and that they agree to follow your safety advice.
Conduct a Risk Assessment
The 5-Step Guide to Completing a Risk Assessment:
- Identify Hazards: Identify potential hazards associated with a clean-up like sharp objects, hazardous waste, weather conditions, and tides.
- Assess Risks: Review how likely and how severe any potential hazards could cause harm.
- Control Measures: Set measures to lower the identified risks.
- Document Findings: Record the hazards, risk assessments, and control measures.
- Review and Update: Regularly check and update the risk assessment throughout the beach clean session, especially if conditions change.
To find out more on what to include, read the guidance provided by HSE. You can also take a look at the risk assessment template created by the Marine Conservation Society.
Volunteer briefing
Holding a clear and simple briefing for volunteers is important for their safety and the success of the beach clean-up. During the briefing, explain basic safety rules, such as how to handle different types of waste and use personal protective equipment.
Show volunteers how to use tools like litter pickers and explain how to safely identify, collect and dispose of waste, especially sharp or hazardous items. Inform them about the location of first aid kits, the nearest medical facilities, and emergency contact numbers. Hold the briefing in a sheltered area, away from the sun or wind, where everyone can gather safely and hear the information clearly.
Equip Volunteers Properly
Gloves and Footwear:
Provide sturdy gloves and recommend volunteers wear sturdy footwear to protect against cuts and punctures. While flipflops may be tempting, these offer little protection and no ankle support. Trainers or walking boots are a much better option.
Litter-pickers:
Litter pickers are relatively inexpensive but are extremely valuable. They reduce the amount of bending down your volunteers must do and mean that litter does not have to be touched.
Sun Protection:
Tell your volunteers to bring sunblock, hats, and sunglasses to help prevent sunburn and heatstroke. Pack some emergency sun cream in case anyone forgets. Remember that the wind can also cause skin irritation and burn, even if the sun isn’t out.
First Aid Kits:
Have well-stocked first aid kits on-site as well as a first aider.
Support and Communication:
Ensure all your beach clean up volunteers know their designated emergency contact for the day and have access to their mobile numbers. Create a buddy system by pairing up volunteers so no one works alone, which also makes managing emergencies easier. Hold regular check-ins with volunteers to ensure they’re not stressed or tired from the physical effort of cleaning. Encourage regular breaks and provide plenty of water to keep volunteers hydrated and energised while they work on the beach.
Safe Waste Handling:
Waste Sorting:
Provide clearly marked, biodegradable bags or containers for different types of waste (e.g., recyclable, hazardous).
Sharp Object Disposal:
Use special containers for sharp objects and show volunteers how to handle and dispose of these items safely.
Liquid contents:
Volunteers may come across bottles or containers with liquid waste. Never open the containers if you are unsure of what the liquid is, especially if you think it could contain chemicals.
Weather and Tides:
Weather Check:
Remember that you are exposed to the elements on the coast, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on weather forecasts and be ready to reschedule if conditions are bad. Consider having a back-up plan in case the weather turns, for example a covered location to shelter from unexpected rain.
Tide Timings:
Plan the clean-up during low tide to avoid strong waves and currents, this helps you have plenty of dry beach to clean. Make sure volunteers understand the tide times and heights, so no one becomes cut-off by the rising sea water. Remember ‘time and tide wait for no man’.
Partnering with the Marine Conservation Society
About the Marine Conservation Society:
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is a UK charity focused on protecting the marine environment. They organise beach clean-ups to reduce marine litter and promote environmental awareness.
Beach Clean Organiser Training:
Charities and organisers can take part in the MCS 'Beach Clean Organiser Training' to help you run safe and successful beach clean-ups.
Training benefits
- Expert Guidance: Learn best practices from experts in marine conservation.
- Safety Protocols: Understand safety procedures to protect volunteers.
- Effective Planning: Get tips on organizing and running efficient clean-up events.
- Community Engagement: Learn how to engage and educate the community about marine conservation.
For more details and to register, visit the Marine Conservation Society's website.
By following these steps, charities can greatly reduce the risks involved in beach clean-ups, ensuring that volunteers stay safe while helping protect our marine environments. A well-organised, safety-focused approach not only protects volunteers but also makes for a positive and rewarding experience.
