Explain steps that you would take risk assessment of the environment you are going to clean littering

Walk through the area you intend to clean and identify anything that could cause harm. This includes:

• Physical hazards: Sharp objects (broken glass, needles, metal), heavy objects, uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, trip hazards (roots, rocks), steep slopes, water bodies (rivers, ponds).
• Biological hazards: Animal waste, decaying organic matter, insects (bees, wasps), rodents, contaminated litter (medical waste).
• Chemical hazards: Unknown liquids in containers, discarded chemicals, batteries.
• Environmental hazards: Adverse weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, wind), poor visibility, traffic, dangerous plants (poison ivy, thorns).
• Ergonomic hazards: Repetitive movements, heavy lifting, awkward postures.

Consider who could be affected by these hazards and in what way. This includes:

• Volunteers/Workers: Cuts, punctures, infections, slips, trips, falls, sprains, strains, chemical burns, heatstroke, hypothermia, allergic reactions, traffic accidents.
• General Public: Accidental contact with hazards left behind, traffic disruption.
• Wildlife: Disturbance, entanglement, ingestion of litter.
• Environment: Further contamination if not handled correctly.

For each identified hazard, assess the likelihood of harm occurring and the potential severity of that harm. Then, determine what measures can be put in place to eliminate or reduce the risk. Apply the hierarchy of controls:

• Elimination: Can the hazard be removed entirely? (e.g., avoid cleaning areas with extreme hazards).
• Substitution: Can a safer alternative be used? (e.g., using litter pickers instead of hands).
• Engineering Controls: Can physical changes be made to the environment or equipment? (e.g., barriers to separate workers from traffic, proper lighting).
• Administrative Controls: Can procedures or work practices be changed? (e.g., training, safe work procedures, supervision, designated break times, buddy system).
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): What equipment is needed to protect individuals? (e.g., sturdy gloves, high-visibility vests, appropriate footwear, long sleeves/trousers, sun protection, first-aid kits).

Document all significant hazards, who might be harmed, and the control measures you have put in place. This record should be clear and understandable. It's particularly important if you have five or more employees/volunteers, but good practice for any group.

The risk assessment is not a one-time event. It should be reviewed regularly, especially if:

• There are changes to the cleaning area or tasks.
• New equipment or procedures are introduced.
• An incident or near-miss occurs.
• New information about hazards becomes available.
• After a set period (e.g., annually). Ensure the assessment remains relevant and effective.