Do a risk assessment
You should understand the risks of litter picking, and know what to do if you find something hazardous. This is called a risk assessment.
A risk assessment is not mandatory, but we do encourage it.
Group organisers
If you're the organiser of a group event, you should also:
- take responsibility for completing the risk assessment.
- take attendance of the volunteers that have attended your litterpick
- sign up any new volunteers
- give a health and safety talk using the risk assessment as support
Litter picking risk assessment (download pdf 118.19KB)
Before you begin
Before you litter pick, walk around the area and think about any risks. Consider who is taking part, where you will be working and what hazards may be present.
Make sure you:
- wear suitable clothing and footwear
- wear gloves
- use a litter picker rather than your hands
- have a mobile phone with you
- know how to report hazardous waste or other safety concerns
- understand the risks in the area you will be working in
Possible risks
These include:
- cuts and injuries
- slips, trips and falls
- infection or illness
- illness caused by the heat, cold or weather
- injuries caused by contact with moving vehicles
- injuries or illnesses resulting from falling into rivers, canals, ponds or streams
- abuse or threatening behaviour from other people
If you find something unsafe
Stop work immediately if you identify a risk that could cause harm. Make sure you're in a safe location, and report it to us.