Page 116 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

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Due to the nature of our work we will often be exposed to the potential hazard of pigeon
droppings, but if we take some basic steps we can minimise the risk of illness or disease.
If you are de-branding a canopy, shop fascia etc then wear the correct type of hand
protection for handling the materials and practice good hygiene and house keeping;
wash your hands before and after eating or drinking.

If you find dead pigeons and or excessive amounts of droppings then stop work
immediately and inform your supervisor. Do not be tempted to clean it yourself as you
are not qualified and do not posses the correct equipment or training to do so correctly or
safely.

Rats also pose a significant health risk to humans. Common diseases carried by rats
include Salmonella, Weils disease, E-coli and Tuberculosis. Rats also carry fleas, mites,
ticks and can cause allergic reactions. Usually nocturnal animals, they hide from
humans, but you may on occasion see them during the day. They have teeth that grow
continuously and they gnaw on wood and plastic to keep them trim and can cause fires

by chewing through cables. Rats usually nest in warm, hidden areas using materials,
building them from newspapers and fabrics; you may find them in forecourt bin areas as
this is the ideal location due to the scraps of food disposed of, and the packaging
materials in the bins.

The most common risk is weils disease or leptospirosis which can be contracted by
exposure to the urine of rats, cattle and foxes. The bacteria enters the body via cuts to
the skin hence the need to always wear gloves, or via the nose, mouth or other mucous
membranes. Again always practice good hygiene and housekeeping, so wear your PPE,
wash your hands before and after eating and drinking and keep all foodstuffs in sealed
containers.

If you have to work or store materials in or near the bin storage area on site then always
wear your gloves / PPE and dispose of the gloves after use and never put the gloves to
your face. Disposable gloves are cost effective and are invaluable in these
circumstances. If in doubt, contact your supervisor immediately.

“let’s make sure that we continue to make our sites THE SAFEST by helping ourselves, our colleagues,
our customers and even our competitors by improving training, helping where necessary and
addressing any issues of concern there and then”

If you have any queries regarding the Safety Bulletin content or require further information please
contact any staff member of Xmo Strata Ltd.