Contact With Animals and Insects in Tree Care and Landscaping

1. When working in tree care and landscaping, workers will come in close contact with various insects and animals. It is important to be aware of all potential exposures, as well as be trained on the signs, symptoms, and first aid with each type of insect or animal that workers may encounter on the job.

2. Insects are typically found in vegetation, wooded areas, and around or in water. Ticks, mosquitos, bees, wasps, and spiders are among the most common insects while working in tree care and landscaping industries.

3. Ticks carry potentially life-threatening diseases and are most active during April through September. When working in grassy, brushy or wooded areas check clothing periodically for ticks and complete a full body check once you are home. It is also recommended that you shower within 2 hours after completing outdoor work.

4. Reduce the mosquito population in your work areas by treating standing water with EPA approved methods or by eliminating standing water by emptying, draining, or covering containers.

5. Spider bites can range from mild to severe. The United States is home to venomous spiders, such as the black widow, brown recluse, and hobo spiders. To prevent or reduce the risk of spider bites be extra aware when working near undisturbed materials and piles outdoors.

6. When working outdoors insects are not the only critters you may encounter. Animals such as rats, dogs, snakes, and other animals local to your area also pose a threat to workers that are outdoors.

7. Never approach wild animals and always maintain a safe distance.

8. Animals like to shelter and spend a lot of their time near water, such as creeks, streams, river banks, and shorelines. When working near a waterway, be mindful of animals and look for signs of their presence.

9. When completing a pre-job inspection, include animal and insect identification methods. Communicate all animal sightings during the workday.

10. Never reach blindly into an area. Have a full view of where you are digging or grabbing. If you need to move material around, don't bend over and dig around. Instead, use a broom stick or long stick.

11. It is important to be aware of what could be on the ground and hiding within piles, but it is also important to be aware of animals or insects that are sheltering overhead in trees.

12. Dress appropriately when working outdoors. For example, light clothing with long sleeves, and pants tucked into socks and boots are a great way to prevent certain insect bites and exposures.

13. Bug spray is a common tool to protect from mosquitos. There are also portable mosquito repellancts and fans that give additional protection for employees.

14. When handling materials outdoors and picking up debris, always wear heavy protective gloves. This will help prevent insect or animal bites such as spiders and snakes.

15. Examine the inside of PPE prior to use to ensure insects have not climbed inside gloves, shoes, hard hats, etc.

16. What are some insects and animals we are exposed to at our current jobsite, and what are signs and symptoms of exposure?

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