safe procedures handbook

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School of Land Based Studies

Horticulture, Conservation and Land Based

Studies Departments

SAFE PROCEDURES HANDBOOK

These rules apply to all staff and students attendingland based courses including Horticulture and

Conservation at the Common Leys Campus.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF ANDSTUDENTS - LAND BASED TASKS

INTRODUCTION

The Horticultural Unit and Conservation area is provided to give

students experience of a real working environment within which tobuild and develop their abilities across a range of vocational skills. Inaddition, work in the unit is an opportunity to apply knowledge learntin the classroom. Students on Land based courses will spend a gooddeal of time working outside. Workers in Environment and Landbased studies who work outside may be exposed to an increased riskfrom certain factors than workers in other environments. It isimportant to be aware of risk and take necessary precautions againstit.The courses are all practical and you should always come prepared

to work outside. Be on time to lessons and return promptly afterbreaks so work can continue.

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Adverse Weather Conditions.

Sun

If you are working outside you will be exposed to adverse weatherconditions. This may be very hot weather when you will be atincreased risk of burning and developing skin cancer, dehydration orheat exhaustion. Students should ensure they take suitableprecautions to protect themselves from the sun such as hats, suncream ensuring skin is covered up and you have enough to drink..

Cold

Students may also become cold in very cold weather if they are notsuitably dressed. Students should ensure they have suitable clothesfor the weather conditions. Being cold reduces dexterity with tools andtherefore increases the risk of accidents.

Lightening

Outdoor workers have an increased risk of being stuck by lightening.Although the risk is very small only about 60 people per year getstruck it can cause death. If you are outside working at college andthere is a thunderstorm you should return indoors. If you are out on asite visit the 30/30 rule should apply or you should return to thecollege. That is there is less than a 30 seconds delay from lighteningflash to thunder. No one should work till 30 minutes after the last clap

of thunder is heard.

Diseases that Outdoor workers may encounter.

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Outdoor workers may be at a greater risk of contracting certaindiseases than other workers. They should therefore be aware ofthese risks take necessary precautions against contracting them.

These diseases are very rare but students should be aware of thereexistence and take reasonable precautions against contracting them.Also if in the unlikely event that disease is contracted the knowledge

of the disease will mean diagnosis and treatment will be rapid andtherefore fewer complications.After working outdoors with plants soil or tools students shouldalways wash their hands before starting indoor activities. Thereshould never be eating or drinking during practical sessions as therewill be adequate breaks.

Tetanus

Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani,also called lockjaw, which can attack the muscles and nervoussystem. Tetanus is a serious infection which can even be fatal.Tetanus bacteria (germs) live in the soil and dirt. The bacteria mayget into your body through a cut or a wound in the skin. The bacteriamake a toxin (poison) which causes the illness. Most students willhave been fully vaccinated against this. However all students workingin Land Based studies should check that they are up to date withTetanus vaccinations.

Leptospirosis

Students who may be in contact with rivers, streams, ponds may beat an increased risk ofLeptospirosis(also known as Weil's disease.Leptospirosis is a relatively rare bacterial infection in humans. Theinfection is commonly transmitted to humans by allowing water thathas been contaminated by animal urine to come in contact withunhealed breaks in the skin, eyes or with the mucous membranes,Therefore in any activity such as water sampling, pond dipping orclearing students should always wash their hands after the activity

and be aware that if they develop flu like symptoms they should lettheir Doctor know of activities with water.

Lymes disease

When working outside you may also come in to contact with tickswhich can carry the bacterium Borrelia which can cause Lymesdisease, also known as Lyme borreliosis. It is transmitted to humansby the bite of a tick infected with these bacteria In the UnitedKingdom, Lyme disease is carried by the sheep tick, Ixodes ricinus.This tick can also feed on deer and other wild mammals and birds.

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The tick prefers to live in woods, heath and moorland, although itdoes not occur exclusively in these habitats. The risk of infection islow as the health Protection Agency believes there are about 3000cases of Lymes disease a year in the UK although the incidence isincreasing.Skin should be checked for ticks and these removed safely withtweezers taking care not to leave mouthparts behind. If you have a

tick bite and develop flu like symptoms and a bulls eye rash youshould inform your GP.

Legionnaires' disease

Legionnaires' disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia whichcan affect anybody, but which principally affects those who aresusceptible because of age, illness, immuno-suppression, smokingetc. It is caused by a bacterium that can grow in cooling systems orwatering systems.Legionella bacteria are common in natural water courses such asrivers and ponds. Since Legionella are widespread in theenvironment, they may contaminate and grow in other water systemssuch as cooling towers and hot and cold water services.They survive low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between20-45C if the conditions are right, e.g. if a supply of nutrients ispresent such as rust, sludge, scale, algae and other bacteria. It isimportant that water in a watering system cannot stagnate or reachthe 20-40degrees.

E. Coli

There have been cases of E Coli and Salmonella found in workersand visitors to farms. E coli 0157 is a bacterium that lives in the gut ofanimals, including cattle, sheep, deer and goats. It can also becarried by pets and wild birds. If humans become infected it cancause illness ranging from diarrhea to kidney failure. In some casethe illness can be fatal, the young children and the elderly at thegreatest risk. Risks are readily controlled by simple everyday

measures such as good personal hygiene.

PERSONAL BEHAVIOUR

Whilst on the horticulture unit and conservation areas you mustbehave in an adult and respectful manner. This includes

- respect for others- personal rights and freedoms

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- safety of others- environment in which others can work and study without

interference and noise- welfare of all wildlife and life on site

In order to maximise your own safety and the safety of others as well

as comply with the law e.g. Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, thefollowing rules must be obeyed by every member of staff and student.

Land based students are not to go into any unauthorized areas atCommon Leys campus unless they are supervised or instructed to doso. Theses include the Animal care and Equine Units both indoor andoutdoor.

It is essential that you are familiar with these rules before carrying outparticular tasks.

IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO WORK IN A SAFE MANNER andnot to intentionally or recklessly misuse anything provided in theinterest of health, safety and welfare.

Please ensure you are familiar with these rules and comply withthem. If in any doubt consult the member of staff in charge.

Failure to comply with these rules could result in disciplinary action.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Every student has the right to be placed on a suitable course onwhich they can achieve, regardless of race, sex, personal choicesand physical or mental ability.

Every effort MUST be made by students and staff to avoid

discrimination. However, if you feel that you or others are not beingtreated fairly or equally, please discuss this with your tutorimmediately.

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ALLERGIES and ASTHMA

1 Any one who has an allergy should have let the course tutor knowthis. If your allergies cause anaphylactic shock it is important to havean EpiPen available at all times.

2. Avoid situations where you may come into contact with your allergye.g. dont wear disposable gloves if you are allergic to latex. If youallergic to nuts ensure that you aware what animal feeds have nuts inthem.

If you have asthma you should have appropriate medication with youat all times. Your course tutor should know.

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PROTECTIVE CLOTHINGPERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

ClothingAll students must wear suitable clothes for outside working, either aboiler suit or clothes that can become wet or muddy. Many of the

tasks you will be required to complete mean you will get dirty andappropriate clothes are necessary.Only steel toed safety boots should be worn for all activities usingtools or dry stone walling. You should have a change of shoes towear inside. Outside footwear should not be worn in the classroomsreception or refectory.If you are given extra Personal Protective Equipment for a specifictask you are required to wear it. E.g. mask and harness for strimming.Long hair should be tied back.

Essential PPE for all land basedstudents Tools

Steel toe-capped bootsEar defendersSafety goggles or glassesHigh visibility vestWork GlovesWarm clothingWaterproof clothing

Hair tied back if long.

Horticulture Students2 Abingdon and Witney College Marooncoloured sweatshirts1 Abingdon and Witney College marooncoloured T-shirt

Conservation Students2 Abingdon and Witney College green

sweatshirts1 Abingdon and Witney CollegeGreen T-shirtOr Abingdon and Witney Green boiler suit.

Horticulture Students- pair of secateurs

Please note:The Common Leys campus is a public facility. It representsAbingdon and Witney College and its students at all times. It isexpected that students will behave and dress in accordance withthese guidelines in order to promote the professional reputation of the

training facility and for health and safety reasons.MANUAL HANDLING

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1. Be aware that lifting heavy or awkward objects e.g. heavy stonesor bales, may be harmful to you and that every effort should bemade to AVOID back strain. These will require two or morepeople to lift them.

2. Back strain usually occurs due to lifting- heavy objects especially if they are an awkward shape

- objects high up- involving twisting- objects over uneven surfaces e.g. carrying large pieces ofbrush from coppicing.

Adopting a good technique when lifting objects will greatly reduce thechance of any injury so remember- stop and think about what you are about to lift, its shape, its position,its weight- make sure you have a clear pathway before you set off and avoid

tripping- position your feet to give yourself a well balanced base and ensurethat you are wearing suitable clothing e.g. dont attempt to bend downand pick up a heavy object wearing a tight skirt.- bend your knees rather than your back and grip the object firmly- keep the object close to your body rather than at arms length.

3. Use a wheelbarrow to transport heavy items.4. All courses contain a health and safety included in them. Correct

manual handling will be covered in these courses.

HANDLING CHEMICALS AND FUELS

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equipment pen files indoor footwear at all times if practical workis unable to go ahead.

2. Please NoteStudents who arrive without the correct clothing orequipment will not be allowed to participate in practicalsessions and will be found alternative jobs.

3. It is the duty of all students and staff to report any faults, defectsor breakages to the course coordinator. Defective items may notbe used until they are fully repaired.

4. The Horticulture unit, including equipment, must be maintained ina tidy and organised fashion at all times. Remember toREMOVE all equipment from the growing areas andconservation areas when finished and return CLEANED items tothe correct place for storage.

5. All injuries or accidents, no matter how minor, MUST be reportedimmediately to the lecturer or supervisor in charge and thenrecorded on an accident form, found in reception.

6. It is the duty of all students and staff to report any faults, defectsor breakages to the nearest member of staff. Defectiveequipment must not be used.

7. There is a No Smoking policy at Common Leys Campusincluding in vehicles parked in the grounds. Smoking is onlyallowed in the allocated smoking area near the front gate.

8. Students will not be allowed to operate any machinery orequipment until they have been trained.

9. Students will not operate any equipment or machinery unless toldto do so by a member of staff.

10. Mobile phones should not be used during teaching sessionsincluding practical sessions unless directed. This is collegepolicy. Please ensure it is switched off or silent.

11. There will be no eating or drinking in practical sessions or inclassrooms. Wash hands after practical work before eating anddrinking in break times.

12. The site has a roadway into it. Students will be working aroundthe road area and must pay attention to the traffic at all times,wear appropriate PPE (high visibility vest) and put out correctsignage.

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13. Staff and students should have available, for inspection, their IDbadge at all times (Badge does not need to be worn duringpractical sessions for health and safety reasons).

14. Do not go in the equine or animal care areas unless supervised orgiven permission to do so.

Pre start Checks of Mowing Machinery.

Pre-start checks to be carried out before starting work with themachine

Carry out pre start checks in accordance with manufacturershandbook

Ensure that you are fit and able to perform the work (e.g. areyou on medication, feeling well, not slept etc.

Check machine is disabled during pre-start checks (normallyby disconnecting the HT lead from the spark plug)

Check fuel and top up as necessary

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Check engine oil and top up as necessary with the correct oil.Do not overfill.

Inspect air filter and clean as necessary Ensure all engine cooling fins or screens are free from debris Visually check all nuts and bolts for signs or loosening Check height of the cut and adjust if necessary Check the cutting blades. On rotary mowers replace or

sharpen as necessary on cylinder mowers adjust the cylindersso that it cuts across its whole length.

Check cables for wear Check guards Report any faults to you supervisor. Before starting machine check your PPE.

(especially ear protection) Check the site as appropriate (debris,

uneven surface, services etc.) Set out warning signs if appropriate

advising the public of hazards

Safe refuelling No smoking No naked flames Avoid contact with hot surfaces Ensure that the machine has

cooled before refuelling Fuels topped up safely Any spillage dealt with safely

Unless otherwise stated in the handbook PPE should include Safety boots Ear defenders Face/eye protection Suitable gloves High visibility jacket when working in areas with vehicular

access Other protection highlighted in the hand book or risk

assessment

FIRE INSTRUCTIONS

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE

1. If you discover a fire, RAISE THE ALARM, by

shouting "Fire", and Operating the nearest Fire Alarm.

2. REPORT TO A MEMBER OF STAFF WHO WILL CALL THEFIRE BRIGADE IMMEDIATELY ON 999 -

The nearest telephone is in the Reception This must be done however small the fire may appear.

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The duty officer will call the Fire Brigade. Do not forget to give the address and directions.

Procedure

3. All students are to evacuate to the on hearing the alarm.

4. All other persons must follow the agreed procedure forevacuation. Remember that visitors to the unit will not knowwhat to do.

5. DO NOT JEOPARDISE YOUR OWN OR ANYONE ELSE'SSAFETY

6. When the Fire Brigade arrives, the senior member of staffpresent should present him/herself to the officer in charge.He/she must report correctly the location of the fire andwhether or not all persons are accounted for.

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EMERGENCY CONTACTS COMMON LEYS

HORTICULTURE UNIT SUPERVISOR

WORKSHOP SUPERVISOR

FIRST AIDERS:

DUTY OFFICERS:

FIRST AID KITS LOCATIONS:

TELEPHONE NUMBERS: Reception

Mark Horne

Simon Cahill

Nik Thomson - horticultureTiff Mundy animal careKirsty Grey animal CareJuliete Huckin - equineRebecca Cook - equineSonia Lee-Kinary equineMark Horne - horticulture

Pam WillsherGavin Colbourne

Horticulture ClassroomReception

01993 703464

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STUDENT and STAFF ACCEPTANCE OF THE LANDBASED STUDIES SAFE PROCEDURES HANDBOOK.

This section is to be completed at the land based studies induction,

signed and returned to the tutor.

By signing students and staff are agreeing to the rules and guidancegiven within the handbook and understand that they must abide by allthe rules at all times that they are on the Common Leys site. Ifstudents are in any doubt about a situation they must ask staff forguidance.

I, (print name)

..

have read the Safe Procedures handbook and agree to abide by all ofthe rules contained within it.

I understand that failure to do so may result in disciplinary measuresbeing implemented.

Signed:

Dated:.

Course:..

safe procedures handbook

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