Litter Picking Volunteers’ Form

Litter Picking – Health & Safety Notes

Thank you for helping to keep Farnham clear of litter. We truly value your support in keeping the town looking its best.
Please read this information in full.

Litter picking can be hazardous in some locations. To make your event as enjoyable and safe as possible, all volunteers must follow the health and safety advice below. The lead volunteer should also assess potential risks and hazards before the event begins.

Please report any accidents, incidents or near misses directly to Lucy Dorkins at [email protected]. This helps Farnham Town Council understand accident trends and put measures in place to reduce accidents in the future.

Do not enter restricted areas such as roadworks or areas without public access.
When near roads, only work on wide verges or pavements suitable for pedestrians, and always face oncoming traffic.
Hi‑visibility waistcoats must be worn, and litter picks should only take place in clear daylight.
Do not attempt to clear litter from the carriageway.
If working alongside a road, stay on one side only to avoid unnecessary crossing.
Avoid reaching deep into hedges or undergrowth where thorns or branches may cause injury.
Avoid working near rivers, watercourses or steep slopes where slips and falls are more likely.
Be mindful of wildlife:
- Spring: avoid disturbing nesting birds or animals.
- Summer: be wary of wasp and bee nests.
Avoid areas contaminated by rats. Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis) is extremely rare but serious.
If an item cannot be reached safely with a litter picker, leave it.
If there is any doubt about safety, avoid the area/material and seek advice from Farnham Town Council.
Report any injuries to Farnham Town Council staff immediately (a first aid kit is available).
Always work in pairs where possible.
Children must be supervised at all times.

The following equipment must be used at all times:

Gloves – to protect hands from hazardous materials.
Hi‑visibility waistcoats – to ensure visibility to pedestrians and traffic.
Litter pickers – to avoid bending and prevent direct contact with litter.
Appropriate footwear – strong shoes/boots with good grip (especially in winter).
Weather‑appropriate clothing – avoid exposing bare skin to hazards or sunburn.

You should also have a mobile phone and first kit available. Volunteers are advised to bring bottled water to avoid dehydration.

Leave the following where they are, make a note of the location, and inform Farnham Town Council:

Broken glass and nails
Drug‑related litter (needles/hypodermics) – do not touch under any circumstances.
Suspect materials – batteries, asbestos, chemicals or fly‑tipping.
Heavy items – do not attempt to lift; seek guidance from council staff.
Do not intrude on private property to retrieve litter.
Do not overfill bags—plenty are available.

Litter Picking Volunteers' Form

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I confirm that I have read and fully understand the guidance notes relating to voluntary litter picking in the community and agree to comply with all instructions, safety measures and requirements outlined within them.

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