Teachers should check thoroughly for, and remove, any broken glass, rusty metal, syringes or other dangerous items before outdoor weed work begins. Students should report any of these objects uncovered during their work to their teacher. Snake inhabited areas should be avoided at times when these reptiles are active. Areas recently sprayed with toxic synthetic pesticides should also be avoided (government officers often invite students to plant and weed areas they have recently 'treated' with toxic biocides as they are currently not prohibited from use.)
Discuss safety issues with students. Use a board or large piece of paper to develop a safety code, for example:.
Students should wear thick gardening gloves.
Clothes should be appropriate to the activity.
Trousers, closed shoes, a hat and sunscreen should be worn outdoors.
Care must be taken when working with plants that have sharp thorns, or other health impacts (e.g. Parthenium weed can stimulate asthma).
Students should report any bees, wasps, spiders, snakes or other venomous or dangerous creatures they encounter in the work area.
Students should keep a safe distance from each other when working with hand tools.
Students should not use motorised machines, sprays or extremely sharp hand tools.
Students should avoid moving heavy loads.
Teachers need to carry a first aid kit and a mobile phone when working outside the school grounds.
Follow all school policies and guidance for outdoor activities and excursions.
Article: WeedBuddiesContent3 (permalink) Date: 31 January 2013; 8:19:19 PM AEDT
