Hazards

The Waitaki Community Gardens are a public facility open to anyone to use. Visitors who are on site when staff are not present are welcome to enjoy the gardens at their own risk and they are encouraged to read the hazards on this website.

Volunteers working when staff are present have the same responsibilities and protections as employees and are encouraged to participate in the health and safety system.

Staff are to lead the health and safety system by providing a link to this website to all volunteers and contractors who come on site, as well as contributing to the content of the hazard register and controls.

Contractors are required to sign in and out by text message to manager Ra McRostie on 021 115 4884. Health and Safety documents can be forwarded to waitaki.community.gardens@gmail.com.

General Hazards

  • Steep terrain and long grass - may be a hazard when operating machinery. Check area below is clear in case of a slide or roll-over. Prevent an accident by remaining on safe terrain, particularly with lawn mowers. Lower the fire risk by clearing spark sources such as stones and refraining from using petrol powered equipment near long dry grass.
  • Compost - there is a risk of Legionnaires disease, tetanus, and other soil borne diseases when handling compost. Always use gloves.
  • Concrete Bird Bath - children to be supervised due to risk of bird bath falling. Moderate risk.
  • Chelmer St - busy thoroughfare. Children to be actively supervised by their caregivers.
  • Driveway and parking - vehicles drive through the gardens while visitors are working. Drivers to be aware of pedestrians, particularly children. Check before reversing.
  • Creek - the water is a hazard for children who can be attracted to the water. Caregivers are to be made aware of the hazard and supervise their children actively.
  • Pizza oven - children to be kept at a safe distance from the pizza oven when it is in operation.
  • Bees - there is a risk that the bees may sting which could be a severe risk if the victim is allergic. Staff are to ensure people act responsibly around bees. In the case of a sting, be aware of anaphylactic reactions and call an ambulance without delay if necessary.


Equipment Hazards

  • Don't leave equipment unattended while it is running. Remove the key or disconnect the spark plug where possible to reduce the risk of children or unauthorised people starting the machine.
  • Lawn Mowers - only to be used by people aged sixteen and over who are trained by employees, and only when employees are present. Operators are to be mindful of children and other visitors to the gardens when operating the mower, particularly when reversing. To reduce the risk of flying objects don't mow over gravel. Try to avoid pulling the push mower backwards to avoid pulling it onto yourself if you slip. Never put your hand on the blades unless the spark plug is disconnected. Personal Protection Equipment is to be used - long trousers or chaps, safety glasses, earmuffs and sturdy enclosed shoes are to be worn when mowing. Tie long hair back and wear close-fitting clothing.
  • Wood Chipper - only to be used by people aged sixteen and over who are trained by employees and only when employees are present. Ensure machine is disabled and has stopped before putting hands in. Keep chipping knives sharp to minimise the risk of hands being put in the machine to clear blockages. Tie long hair back, wear close-fitting clothing, safety glasses, ear muffs and sturdy enclosed shoes. When feeding the machine turn away and stand back from the opening as far as practical to minimise the risk of being hit by throw back. Use long branches to push the shorter branches. Keep all guards and safety features in place.
  • Rotary Hoe - only to be used by people aged sixteen and over who are trained by employees and only when employees are present. Wear close-fitting clothing, tie long hair back, and wear sturdy enclosed footwear. Don't touch the blades unless the engine is off and spark plug disconnected. Be aware of other people when operating. Maintain a straight wrist position to minimise the risk of sprains from unexpected movements of the machine.

Chemical Hazards

  • Chemicals are to be stored locked up in a well ventilated room with containment in case of a spill.
  • Hazards from the various chemicals include explosive, flammable, acutely toxic to humans and eco-toxic.
  • Chemicals are to be kept away from children and only used by trained staff, preferably not when other people are around.
  • Always use the correct mixture ratios to prevent excessive residues.
  • Safety Data Sheets (SDS) must be read before using a chemical for the first time to understand the risks involved. Should a medical event occur with a hazardous substance the Safety Data Sheet for the chemical must be referred to and taken to the doctor.
  • PPE must be worn when using chemicals as described in the SDS for that chemical.