Health & Safety Statement

Background
Econet is an independent conservation group whose aim is to conserve and to promote awareness and enjoyment of, the natural environment in public open spaces and other sites through out the Reading area.

Commitment
Econet is committed to ensuring its activities are undertaken in a manner which safeguards the health, safety and welfare of all who are associated with, or are affected by them. Econet aims to create a safe and healthy working environment for all participants in its activities.

Meeting the Commitment
All activities undertaken by Econet should follow the guidelines set out in the BTCV's [British Trust for Conservation Volunteers] "Health & Safety Overview".

A risk assessment must be undertaken for all tasks. This must include consideration of the nature of the task and of the site, and of the conditions prevailing at the time the task is undertaken.

Before commencing a task, participants must be advised of the risks identified and the measures taken to eliminate/minimise that risk. Risks considered should include:

The presence of other individuals, groups, or members of the public (non-participants).

The presence of motor traffic, machinery or other vehicles.

Naturally occurring hazards such as Weil's disease and Lyme disease.

Before commencing a task, participants must receive instruction on the task being undertaken and on the correct use of all tools and equipment being used, with particular emphasis on safety.

No participant should commence a task without having first received the appropriate instruction.

Appropriate protective clothing must be available and worn when required.

First aid facilities must be provided and participants made aware of their existence.

Steps must be taken to ensure the safe transportation of tools.

All accidents must be recorded.

The task leader will be responsible for ensuring safety and tools training is given.

To assist compliance with this statement, Econet will have available basic protective clothing (gloves, goggles, helmets, etc.) as well as first aid kits.

Implementation
Econet will circulate this statement to its members and expects the actions of its members to be consistent with this statement.

Review
Econet will regularly review this statement and take whatever additional measures may be deemed necessary at that time.

Retention of Documents
Accident reports and risk assessments must be retained for a minimum of 6 years for insurance purposes.

Related Documentation
A copy of the BTCV's "Health & Safety Overview" is held by the Treasurer and can be viewed online at http://www.btcv.org.uk/.