Islander Garden Safety Guidelines

As a volunteer or gardener at the Islander Gardens, it is important to practice safety habits when working with compost and/or gardening. We value your time, skills, and commitment. Please read the list of precautions to take throughout your time as a volunteer or gardener at the Islander Gardens.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Remember to always wear gloves and close toed shoes, since we use a lot of scrap wood or pallets that can pinch or splint bare skin. In addition, gloves are important to wear since small organisms like scorpions, spiders, ants and bees can be around the compost bins. It's recommended to wear glasses (prescription/sun) or goggles that shield your eyes from dust and debris.

HANDLING OR PICKING UP FOOD SCRAPS

Remember to use your legs and arms to lift items such as buckets filled with food waste, compost materials, tools, mulch, etc. DO NOT use your back. When picking up food scraps from the back kitchens, all food scraps buckets that are ready to be sent to compost should be covered with their lids. After composting, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. DO NOT ingest collected food waste or compost leachate.

STRONG ODORS

Be aware that on occasion strong odors may deter people with weak stomachs. Odors are strongest when digging within compost piles and when handling the compost leachate.

FOOD, FUNGAL, BACTERIAL OR PLANT ALLERGIES

Do you have food or plant allergies*

that would harm you or prevent you from helping with compost collections or deposits? Please let a Sustainability worker know before handling.

Yes

If yes, please list

COMPOST

Temperature inside the compost piles can reach over 140˚F, which can easily burn the skin. Always utilize tools and wear gloves when handling fresh, steaming compost.

HEAT STRESS/OVER-EXERTION

Always drink plenty of water when working outside. Know your limits when gardening or working with compost, pickups or turning piles. If volunteering, DO NOT feel the need to push yourself. If you are tired or overwhelmed, STOP and let a Sustainability worker know.

USE OF TOOLS

Do not place any tools on the ground that could pose a tripping hazard. Use the tools for their intended purpose. Put all tools back in their designated places when tasks are completed.

ELECTRICAL USAGE

Use electrical outlets that are in the garden shed or outside of the hazwaste shed. Always unplug cords when finished. Never expose cords to water.

FIRST AID KIT

The First Aid Kit is located in the Islander Garden Shed on the shelf. In case of a life threatening emergency call 911 and then call UPD (361-825-4444).

CONTACTS

If you need assistance or have a question about the Islander Gardens, contact the Environmental Health and Safety Office (361-825-5555) located in the Natural Resource Center, Suite 1100. If you witness criminal activity in compost area, please call University Police Department at (361-825-4444).

Safety Guidelines*

I have read and understand the above Islander Garden Safety Guidelines. Failure to abide by these safety precautions could result in subjecting yourself to risk of injury and exclusion from participating in this program.

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