Environmental Cleanup Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Tool use (grabbers, rakes, shears) — Issue age-appropriate tools with a short briefing on grip, approach and passing, keep tool tips down when walking, maintain a “tool arm’s-length” spacing rule, and store tools immediately after use to prevent stray hazards on paths.
• Site reconnaissance and permissions — Conduct a pre-visit to map hazards, agree permissions with landowners or council, confirm access routes and welfare points, and brief pupils on the plan so tasks, boundaries and emergency arrangements are understood before any litter or debris is touched.
• Waste segregation and lawful disposal — Sort recyclables, general waste and hazardous finds into marked containers, record any sharps or chemical referrals, and deliver bagged waste to agreed pickup points or licensed facilities so the cleanup meets legal and environmental standards.
• Insects, wildlife and bites — Identify likely nests or habitats, avoid disturbance, use repellent where appropriate, provide tick removers and first aid for stings, and instruct pupils to report wildlife rather than attempt handling so encounters stay respectful and safe.
• Manual handling of bags and bulky items — Limit bag weight, double-bag heavy or wet debris, use team lifts for awkward items, keep loads close to the body, and set down before re-gripping on uneven ground so pupils build safe technique without straining backs or wrists.