Comprehensive Health and Safety guidelines can be obtained from the Composting Association and the Community Composting Network - see resources section.
Key points are:
1) Make sure all those involved have had some health and safety induction course.
2) Only trained personnel should operate machinery, e.g. shredders and tractors.
3) Site layout and design are integral to maintaining safe working conditions - slips and trips can be avoided by keeping a tidy and well ordered site.
4) Never turn dry, musty compost. This is when bioaerosols are released in huge quantities -
especially dangerous are the fugal spores which cause 'farmers lung'. Dry heaps do not compost well anyway and this is why it is especially important to keep an eye on the moisture levels. If you have to turn dry heaps use a proper mask.
5) Wear the appropriate clothing for the job - this is part of any machinery training but even handling thorny branches, for instance, needs proper protection. Eyes hands and feet are especially vulnerable. Always wear stout gloves and boots as a minimum precaution.
6) Make sure you know how to lift - bend at the knees and keep a straight back. Do not lift heavy weights alone.
7) Always wash your hands after a composting session - especially before eating.
8) Finally don't just rely on this short synopsis - get the full information
- see top of the article.
