Environmental Safety · 2–5 min toolbox talk
Safe Work Around Animal Hazards
A safety talk covering animal-related hazards such as dogs, insects, snakes, and wildlife.
Use this printed script for your tailgate or toolbox talk. Read through the hazards, script, and questions with your crew.
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“Safe Work Around Animal Hazards”
Key Hazards
- Bites or stings
- Allergic reactions
- Startle hazards in enclosed areas
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Safe work around animal hazards is important for utility crews, delivery workers, grounds teams, and construction workers. Animals such as dogs, insects, and snakes can appear suddenly and create risks.
Workers should stay alert when entering yards, sheds, lift stations, basements, or vegetation areas. Warning signs such as disturbed brush, droppings, or buzzing insects indicate possible hazards.
Different job settings bring different risks. Utility workers may encounter dogs during meter reading, landscapers may disturb nests, and construction workers may find wildlife when clearing land.
Workers should avoid sudden movements, maintain distance, and notify supervisors when aggressive animals or infestations are present.
Safety Reminders
- Stay alert in areas with limited visibility.
- Do not approach unfamiliar animals.
- Wear proper PPE in areas with insects or tall grass.
- Report aggressive animals immediately.
Ask the Crew
- What animal hazards might we encounter today?
- Do we need insect repellent or protective clothing?