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  you are in: TOADS ON ROADS > RESOURCES > HEALTH & SAFETY > SAFE WORKING 



Toads on Roads

Health and Safety: ideas for safe working

Good preparation...
O If you don't have a rota, try to get volunteers to 'book' on so that you have some idea of numbers each evening.
O Make sure you have enough high-vis clothing for all volunteers, or that they bring their own, and that it is well maintained - it won't work if it gets muddy/dirty!
O If your crossing is particularly large, try to make sure you have one/several experienced Patrollers around to help manage each evening.
O Always visit the site in daytime before the start of the season, even if you think you're relatively familiar with the site. Check how easy it is to walk along the collection and release areas and clear vegetation if necessary.
O Please get in touch to request
free resources such as high-vis vests, buckets and head torches: sam.taylor@froglife.org or 01733 558844.

On Patrol nights...
O Try to have a car park/meet point away from the road and toad crossing where you can safely brief and equip your volunteers. Sign a safe route (off the carriageway) from here to the toad crossing; if this isn't possible, make sure you walk as a group, on the roadside facing oncoming traffic, wearing your high-vis clothing.
O Don't keep your Risk Assessment a secret! Get all volunteers to read it and highlight any particular concerns and how to avoid them.
O Make sure your volunteers are dressed for the weather and terrain and have torches/head torches.
O Think about setting up additional signs (with permission) - 'Toad Patrol', 'People on the road', etc. Make sure they are at a distance that gives motorists plenty of warning; if possible have two sets - one in each direction.
O To try and avoid pedestrian/vehicle collisions, get Patrollers to cross in groups, either by having experienced volunteers leading groups or by having designated crossing points at the safest places.
O Count your volunteers in and out - we don't leave our Toad Patrollers behind!
O The patrol coordinator should carry/have access to a fully charged mobile phone with signal and, if possible, a first aid kit and qualified first aider.

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