Landscaping & Tree Work
Green Waste & Composting Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to managing safety risks in green waste handling and composting.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
Safe practices for green waste management
Green waste handling involves biological hazards from decomposing material, spores and allergens, manual handling of heavy loads, and vehicle movements at composting sites. Proper PPE and hygiene protect workers.
This guide covers biological hazards, spore protection, manual handling, and vehicle safety at green waste sites.
Outdoor Work
Outdoor Work
Activity Benefits
Why green waste safety matters
Respiratory Protection
Masks prevent inhalation of harmful spores.
Infection Control
Hygiene prevents soil-borne disease.
Lifting Safety
Mechanical aids prevent strain injuries.
Vehicle Safety
Traffic management prevents collisions.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Aspergillus SporesHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Farmer's lung, allergic reactions, and respiratory infection from fungal spores.
Control Measures
- FFP3 mask worn
- Dampen material if dusty
- Work upwind
- Health surveillance
Biological HazardsMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Infection, skin irritation, and disease from handling decomposing material.
Control Measures
- Gloves worn
- Cuts covered
- Hands washed before eating
- Tetanus vaccination
Manual HandlingMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Back strain and muscle injuries from lifting heavy bags and containers.
Control Measures
- Mechanical aids used
- Smaller loads
- Correct technique
- Regular breaks
Site TrafficMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Struck-by and run-over injuries from vehicles at composting sites.
Control Measures
- High-visibility worn
- Segregated walkways
- Vehicle reversing alarm
- Traffic management plan
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 20 hazards and 64+ control measures for Green Waste & Composting, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Green waste checklist
PPE
- FFP3 mask
- Gloves
- Safety boots
- High-visibility
Hygiene
- Hand wash available
- Eating area separate
- Cuts treated immediately
- Vaccinations current
Handling
- Mechanical aids
- Loads assessed
- Work area clear
- Breaks scheduled
Site
- Traffic routes marked
- Pedestrians separated
- Reversing controlled
- Speed limits
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