Petting Zoo Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Contamination from animal waste — Regularly clean enclosures and visitor areas. Provide clear waste disposal points. Ensure animal waste is contained and removed hygienically. Educate visitors about handwashing after touching surfaces or enclosures.
• Dust inhalation — Regularly water high-traffic areas to suppress dust in dry conditions. Install air filtration or ventilation systems in indoor barns or confined spaces. Use low-dust bedding for animals and store hay away from visitor walkways. Provide masks for staff and visitors with respiratory conditions when needed.
• Slips, trips, and falls — Maintain level walking surfaces and install non-slip mats in high-risk areas. Clearly mark uneven terrain or steps. Train staff to monitor conditions and respond to spills or obstructions immediately. Ensure safe footwear recommendations are displayed.
• Noise levels causing distress — Identify noise-sensitive areas and designate quiet zones with soft ground coverings to minimize echoes. Use directional speakers instead of loudspeakers to control sound distribution. Schedule noisy activities like feeding time or tractor use away from peak visitor hours. Provide ear protection for staff in high-noise areas.
• Inadequate supervision — Maintain appropriate staff-to-visitor ratios. Train staff on crowd management and emergency responses. Assign specific zones for supervisors to monitor and intervene if needed.