Volunteer Safety Checklist
When hosting a litter cleanup, safety for yourself and volunteers should always be top priority.
Use this list as a reference when planning to help lead volunteers through a litter clean up safely.
Do not overfill your bags. Though the garbage bags are spacious, weight should be considered first when it is time to tie off and start a new bag. When the bag becomes difficult to hold with your arm straight out at your side, it is time to start a new bag.
Do not collect broken glass. Broken glass will poke through the garbage bags and be hazardous to people collecting them.
Be mindful of dimensional lumber/construction lumber. When handling, watch for nails and screws. Do not step on it.
Wear appropriate clothing and shoes: Volunteers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that they don't mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes with good traction are essential for navigating uneven terrain and potentially hazardous debris.
Use gloves: Gloves are essential for protecting volunteers from cuts, punctures, and exposure to hazardous materials. Provide disposable or reusable gloves to all volunteers and instruct them to avoid touching their faces or eating with the gloves on.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: Volunteers should apply sunscreen before heading out to the cleanup site and reapply every few hours. They should also bring insect repellent to avoid bug bites and stings.
Stay hydrated: Encourage volunteers to bring a reusable water bottle and provide access to drinking water throughout the event. Remind volunteers to take regular breaks to rest and hydrate.
Be aware of hazards: Before the cleanup begins, identify any potential hazards at the site, such as broken glass, rusty metal, or sharp objects. You may encounter drug paraphernalia such as hypodermic needles, surgical tubing, or shake and bake bottles (plastic bottles filled with dual viscosity liquid. If drug paraphernalia is found, DO NOT TOUCH and please contact the leader of the litter cleanup.
Use proper lifting techniques: If volunteers will be lifting heavy or bulky items, teach them proper lifting techniques to avoid strains and injuries. Encourage volunteers to work in pairs to lift large items.
Stay alert and aware: Volunteers should be aware of their surroundings at all times and keep an eye out for potential hazards. Instruct volunteers to call out if they see anything potentially dangerous or harmful.
Dispose of hazardous materials properly: Provide clear instructions on how to handle hazardous materials such as batteries, chemicals, or medical waste. Ensure that these materials are collected and disposed of properly according to local regulations.
Have an emergency plan: In the event of an emergency, have a plan in place to evacuate the site and contact emergency services if necessary. Ensure that all volunteers know the plan and have access to emergency contact information.