Econet Risk Assessment [Base Document]
Assessment: Hedgelaying
Scope: Activity [Task]
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Assessment Summary: Hedgelaying;
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Hedgelaying
Last updated: 02/07/2023 11:32:08
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Typical uncontrolled outcomes
Slips and trips; strained muscles; scratches to face and head; inflammation of joints; puncture wounds; cuts and lacerations; blood borne infections; concussion; serious injury
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Typical groups at risk
Volunteers; other site users; general public
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Insurance considerations
Econet's insurance does not cover the use of chain saws.
The following statement has been made to Econet's insurer's regarding tree felling: "We occasionally fell trees with trunks over 15cm diameter, maximum in the region of 18 - 20cm. Maximum height of tree felled would be in the region of 10 - 12m. [but such trees would generally of smaller girth]." Tasks should not be undertaken which contravene this statement. Note: A diameter of 20cm (8in) equates to a girth of 63cm (25in).
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Hazards
- Contact with hand tools
- Slips, trips and falls
- Eye injuries
- Falling debris and branches
- Presence of man-made detritus, e.g. broken bottles, barbed wire
- Unexpected movement when cutting timber under tension/compression
- Thorns
- Repetitive movements
- Blackthorn injuries
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Controls
- Tools: See "General Conservation Activities" risk assessment.
- Slips, trips and falls: See "General Conservation Activities" risk assessment.
- Wear safety glasses to prevent eye injuries from protruding branches and branches under tension.
- Volunteers recommended to wear hard hats.
- Place warning signs at main entry points and ensure visitors are kept away from work area.
- Ensure sufficient space between volunteers - greater than length of material to be laid.
- Clear branches and other vegetation at base of hedge to give good access and visibility and provide escape route if laying or felling larger trees.
- Check for and remove any detritus such as broken glass or barbed wire.
- Do not work in the vicinity of dead trees or trees containing deadwood in windy conditions.
- Check for hanging dead wood and dead wood which may be brought down by activity; clear if possible.
- Check ground for broken glass, thorns or other sharp objects before kneeling. Wear knee protection.
- Wear gloves (preferably hedging gloves) when handling thorny material.
- Remove the thorns of blackthorn immediately and seek medical attention if wound becomes infected.
- Remove excess brash regularly to reduce trip hazards.
- Take frequent breaks when undertaking heavy or repetitive tasks such as when hammering or using slasher or strimmer, or alternate with other (lighter) task to reduce risk of strains and other injuries associated with vibration and repetitive movements.
- Avoid working near power lines and other overhead cables.
- If tree caught in overhead cables do not touch, call responsible authority immediately.
- Pole saws must not be used within 15m of overhead electricity cables and power lines.
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