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A TEMPLATE PROVIDED TO THE GROWER MEMBERS OF SAAGACompiled and updated by Athol Currie & the Subtrop technical team

FARM HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICYTHIS FARM HAS A LEGAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY TO SAFEGUARD ITS EMPLOYEES AND THE PUBLIC AT LARGE, AS FAR AS IS REASONABLY PRACTICAL, FROM RISK TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH OR INJURY ENSUING FROM ANY OF THE OPERATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH ITS BUSINESS. IT IS THE COMPANY’S POLICY THAT THE FULFILLING OF ITS LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY REPRESENTS THE MINIMUM LEVEL OF ACHIEVEMENT IN THE RESPECT OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK.


Our full objectives are:1. To ensure total compliance with all relevant statutory requirements regarding occupational safety

and environmental aspects.2. To achieve the highest practical level of health and safety in all of the company’s farms, offices and

other locations.3. To promote and maintain a culture of safety consciousness among all employees.4. All employees are to be made aware of food allergens during training and induction.

The achievement of these objectives is the direct responsibility of Management. The Health and Safety Committee ensures that all matters relating to occupational health and

safety are brought to the attention of management. The Health and Safety Committee will, with the support of the Management, ensure that such

provisions are adhered to.


WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURESCHEMICALS & FERTLIZERS

APPLICATION

Use only dedicated equipment for chemical and fertilizer application.Regular services and maintenance of application equipment must be carried out by qualified personnel.Warning signs must be displayed at orchards to inform of withhold/ re-entry periods.Applications must be recorded and withhold/ re-entry periods are to be observed.Use safety masks, as well as dedicated gumboots, overalls and rain suits during applications.Dedicated protective clothing is to be used and washed on a regular basis.Showers and basins are located near chemical and fertilizer stores.On site first aid is to be in place and maintained.Annual chemical handling and first aid training must take placeMonitoring of weather conditions must take place, in order to avoid drift.Daily checks on protective clothing are to be carried out.

ENVIRONMENTAL

Chemical and fertilizer inputs for avocado are relatively low, however the following procedures must be observed in order to avoid harm to the environment:Only apply chemicals and fertilizers during calm weather conditions.Only apply fertilizer according to soil and leaf sample results.Monitor insect and disease activity on a weekly basis.Where possible practice Integrated Pest Management.Make use of trap crops to reduce chemical applications.

HUMAN HEALTH Adhere to product withholding periods.


Record permitted harvest date according to registered withhold periods.Test fruit for chemical residue prior to harvest.Ensure correct mixing and application of chemicals.Ensure strict control of chemical and fertilizer stock.

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WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURESMACHINERY & EQUIPMENT: TRACTORS

REDUCING INJURY RISK

Only trained operators may drive tractors.All tractors are to be fitted with access platforms in order to reduce the risk of operators being run over.All drivers will attend safe tractor operation and maintenance courses.Guards and/ or covers must be fitted to power take offs, exposed set screws, bolts, revolving parts, exposed spurs, toothed or friction gearing transmissions, drive wheels and pulleys.Use ear and eye protection when driving tractors.Tractors must be serviced by qualified personnel.Warning/ hazard signs must be clearly displayed.

DRIVER INSTRUCTIONS

Immediately report any defects or problems with the tractor or implement to a supervisor.Tractors may only be started whilst the driver is seated.No carrying of passengers is permitted on tractors, unless specifically designed seats are fitted.Do not park on steep slopes.Mount and dismount only when the tractor is stationary and with the park brake on.Disengage the power take-off before cleaning, servicing or adjusting a power take-off driven implement.Do not step over a rotating power take-off shaft.Do not stand astride a rotating power take-off shaft on the 3 point linkage.Always hitch implements and attachments according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Be sure that all guards are in place before operating power implements.Never hitch around the axle housing or to the top link pin. Hitching to the axle or seat bracket or top link


can cause the tractor to overturn backward crushing the operator.Use the draw bar or the mounting points provided by the manufacturer for attaching equipment. Do not use makeshift methods.Use ear and eye protection, as well as dedicated gumboots, overalls and rain suits when using spray application equipment.Driving a tractor whilst under the influence of drugs and/ or alcohol will result in disciplinary action.

3WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT: IMPLEMENTS


Only trained operators may operate machinery and equipment.All spray rigs are to be fitted with access platforms in order to reduce the risk of operators being run over.All operators will be instructed on the safe usage and handling of machinery and equipment.Guards and/ or covers must be fitted to power take offs, exposed set screws, bolts, revolving parts, exposed spurs, toothed or friction gearing transmissions, drive wheels and pulleys.Machinery and equipment must be serviced by qualified personnel.Warning/ hazard signs must be clearly displayed.

OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS

Immediately report any defects or problems with machinery and equipment to a supervisor.No carrying of passengers is permitted on equipment, unless specifically designed seats are fitted.Disengage the power take-off before cleaning, servicing or adjusting a power take-off driven implement.Do not step over a rotating power take-off shaft.


Do not stand astride a rotating power take-off shaft on the 3 point linkage.Always hitch implements and attachments according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Be sure that all guards are in place before operating power implements.Use ear and eye protection, as well as dedicated gumboots, overalls and rain suits when using spray application equipment.Operating machinery and equipment whilst under the influence of drugs and/ or alcohol will result in disciplinary action.


MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT: HAVESTING LADDERSREDUCING INJURY RISK

Only trained staff may harvest avocados.Workers must be instructed on safe set-up, climbing and use of ladders. Each ladder should suit the job and the worker using it.Workers must also be instructed to let the supervisor know if they have any illnesses or injuries, which may affect their ability to use and climb ladders.Workers must also be instructed to set-up the ladder safely and follow any reasonable instruction, training or information provided in the use of ladders.Before using a ladder the harvesting supervisor must inspect it to make sure it is in safe and sound condition.Check the rungs/treads, stiles/side rails, fittings, spreaders and feet to ensure not worn, cracked corroded, broken, split etc.


Mark and remove defective ladders from service immediately.Investigate all falls thoroughly to identify and minimise hazards.


Use safe climbing and working practices on ladders: face the ladder and grip it with both hands when climbing keep your body between the side rails keep the ladder close to the work area do not over reach, rather move the ladder to a better position do not stand above the tread or rung indicated as the highest standing level do not jump off the ladder wear non-slip shoes. report any hazards or unsafe situations to a supervisor

5WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURESMACHINERY & EQUIPMENT: PICKING BAGS


Only trained staff may harvest avocados.Select the correct picking bag and investigate any modifications that can be done to ensure the best and most comfortable fit.Shoulder straps should be wide enough to distribute weight over shoulders.Bags must be kept to a minimum size in order to avoid heavy loads and overloading.


Use safe working practices when wearing picking bags:• avoid lifting from low levels or off the ground when the bag is loaded with fruit


• take regular rest breaks from repetitive and prolonged postures involving raising the arms, and from direct loading on the shoulders• prevent the loaded bag from moving away from the body, as this places extra load on the spine• do not overload bags; it is better to carry smaller loads on a more frequent basis• avoid bending and twisting movements, even with only a partly loaded bag• Wear comfortable clothes that help to prevent chaffing or damage to the skin from rubbing and sweat• report any injury or discomfort problems resulting from using picking bags to your supervisor immediately. Action can then be taken to prevent ongoing or long-term problems.


PROTECTIVE CLOTHING


Workers are to be provided with protective clothing that is suitable for the work being carried out.Workers must be trained in the selection, fitting, use, maintenance and storage of eye protection equipment and protective clothing.Protective clothing and eye protection equipment must comply with local safety regulation standards.Chemicals can also enter the body when absorbed through the skin, taken in by mouth or when vapours are inhaled. Additional protection for the face is required when harmful gases or vapours are present.Material Safety Data Sheets and safety/ hazard labels must be adhered to.Protective clothing is to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.Protective clothing is to be stored in separate locker facilities in order to avoid cross contamination with normal work wear and personal clothing.



Chemical resistant/ waterproof gloves, long sleeves and long trousers must be worn when mixing or applying chemicals.When mixing or pouring chemicals, wear face shields, hoods or wide vision goggles with indirect ventilation.Eye and ear protection must be worn when operating tractors and heavy machinery.Always follow protective clothing instructions on chemical labels.Report defective protective clothing to a supervisor.

7WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURESELECTRICAL SWITCHBOARDS & EQUIPMENT


Only qualified personnel may install electrical switchboards and equipment.Only qualified personnel may carry out maintenance work on electrical switchboards and equipment.Only trained employees may work with or operate electrical equipment.All electrical switchboards and equipment must be properly insulated and protected with safety switches.Power points, light fittings and switches are in a safe place and free of obvious defects, ensure that there are no loose covers or wires, broken or damaged fittings, or signs of overheating.Main and isolating switches are clearly labelled and accessible.Electrical fittings and electrical equipment, including portable power tools, must be regularly inspected and maintained by qualified personnel.Warning/ hazard signs must be clearly displayed.


The location of power lines must be assessed relative to the work activity carried out on the farm, e.g. harvesting near power lines.


Faulty electrical equipment must be reported to a supervisor.Extension leads and power boards must be located in a safe position to prevent mechanical or other damage.Power tools, extension leads and power boards must be maintained in a safe operating condition, check for damaged insulation, water leaks, burn marks, bent or loose pins and fittings.Operating electrical equipment whilst under the influence of drugs and/ or alcohol will result in disciplinary action.


BUILDINGS AND INFRASTRUCTUREREDUCING INJURY RISK

Electrical: Refer to risk assessment for switchboards and electrical equipment.Ensure Farm roads and surfaces are in good repair.Building and construction work may only be carried out by qualified personnel.Ensure buildings are tidy and are in good repair.Warning/ hazard signs must be clearly displayed.Safety rails must be in place where there is the possibility of a fall.Ensure that suitable fire safety equipment is available.Exits onto public roads must be safeNo asbestos containing materials such as roof sheeting, gutters, piping and fascia boards will be used


in any new building and construction projects.Any current asbestos containing material that is damaged will be replaced by non-asbestos containing materialsAll installed asbestos containing materials are painted or otherwise sealed with a protective coating to limit the release of asbestos dust, combat weathering and inhibit growth of lichen or moss.All asbestos containing materials are recorded in the farms “Asbestos Register”.The condition of asbestos containing materials is monitored, and recorded in the register for deterioration or damage.


A safe means of access to heights must be used (e.g. stairs, work platform, ladder).Roof work may only be undertaken with a proper roof ladder/crawling boards.All doors and gates must be secured.Damaged and/ or poorly maintained building and infrastructure must be reported to a supervisor.


WATER SOURCES & DAMSREDUCING INJURY RISK

Ensure water sources and dams are maintained and are in good repair.Dam construction work may only be carried out by qualified personnel.Warning/ hazard signs must be clearly displayed.Fencing must be in place where there is the possibility of drowning.Annual water testing must be carried out by a certified laboratory.Entrances to holding dams must be secure.


Safety equipment such as exit ladders/ climbing ropes to be in place at holding dams.No swimming to be allowed in farm dams.


10HYGIENE INSTRUCTIONS & PROCEDURES

WORKER HEALTH Workers, who are sick, should not report to work, or alternatively, report their illness the production manager who will assign them to a job where they

will not handle produce. Workers displaying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, exposed cuts, sores or open wounds, Hepatitis A or yellow

jaundiced skin and eyes may not have direct contact with food. Workers with upper respiratory infections will be assigned duties not involving food handling. Workers who have been removed from contact with produce will only be permitted to handle produce once they have been cleared by a licensed

health care professional. All open wounds and cuts to be covered with a ‘blue’ plaster, a sterile bandage or an appropriate dressing.

PERSONAL CLEANLINESS AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING Workers will wear task-appropriate clean clothes to work. All workers will receive suitable protective clothing in order to reduce the risk of contamination to fruit. No eating, smoking or drinking will be permitted in the orchards. All workers will keep fingernails trimmed short and clean.

WATER Water from a sanitary source for workers will be provided for consumption and hand washing. Potable drinking water will be provided to ensure that workers do not get dehydrated and ill while working. Water will be stored in clean containers and tanks that are cleaned and sanitized daily. Water containers must be covered and kept out of direct sunlight.

JEWELLERY


Jewellery of all kinds including rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, piercings, as well as false finger nails and other personal adornments such as badges, buttons, etc. are not permitted in the orchards. These objects can create a physical hazard if they should break or become dislodged and fall into the product.

PROPER TOILET USE Clean, sanitary in-field toilets and hand washing facilities that are stocked with soap, water and single-use paper towels are available for workers. Use only designated toilet facilities Wash hands and/or sterilize after using the toilet facilities.

HAND WASHING Proper hand washing is the single most important way to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases and must be practiced by all workers who

handle fruit Hand washing is an activity that should always be done before beginning work and should be repeated frequently throughout the day. Always wash hands and/or sterilize prior to the harvesting of fruit.

11 Respect signage.

12ACCIDENT & EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

PURPOSE TO ENSURE THAT ALL EMPLOYEES ARE CAPABLE AND UNDERSTAND WHAT TO DO DURING AN EMERGENCY SITUATION

Area of Application FARMPROCEDURE FLOODING

1. Determine safety of all workers and ensure they move to higher ground.2. Determine whether access roads to farm are affected.3. If so, determine what type of vehicle could be used to cross flooded roads.4. Staff should then be evacuated using the suitable vehicles (4x4 LDV, tractor and trailer).


FIRE1. Ascertain the extent of the fire and whether anybody is trapped within the affected area.2. Evacuate people to a safe distance, or the nearest emergency assembly point.3. Alert the Richmond Fire Hawk on 010 590 5988.4. Try to extinguish the fire with the closest fire extinguisher or fire hose (depending on the type of fire). If electrical,

DO NOT USE WATER.5. Continue fire control until the Richmond FPA or emergency backup services arrive.

CHEMICAL / FUEL SPILLAGE1. Ascertain the nature of the spillage and the chemical involved and apply first aid to injured if necessary.2. Contact the Fire Department for advice.3. Try to block the flow of spilled chemicals to open water using soil, or soaking up using sawdust or sand.4. If chemicals were spilled into waterways, alert neighbors downstream of potential dangers.5. Continue spillage control until the Fire Department or backup service arrives and takes over the situation.

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS


13 TRAINED FIRST AIDERS

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