years with this back-to-work refresher

hEALTH & sAFETY Refresher

Within a few weeks we start our first full programme of canal camps since 2019. So now is a good time to refresh ourselves on working safely...

Back to Site Refresher

In Summer 2021 WRG managed to successfully run a small trial program of canal camps, and building on that success there is a larger program planned for Summer 2022. As many volunteers return to canal restoration projects across the country, some of them after a considerable length of time, now is a good point to refresh ourselves on some aspects of working together on projects to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all.

Respecting individuals’ levels of caution: Since the end of the government mandatory covid rules it’s easy to forget about the precautions we have lived with previously, especially when absorbed in a task. But it’s important to recognise that people are still exercising various levels of caution depending on their personal circumstances, health, feelings, whether they are caring for an elderly relative or have a job they can’t be absent from, for example. We must respect their choices, give them the space they desire, on site, in the accommodation, in travelling or social activities, and respect any decisions to avoid any situations or activities which they don’t feel comfortable with.

Mental Health: Over the last year WRG has benefited from several training and awareness sessions focused on mental health and wellbeing. This summer each of the flightcases that hold the paperwork etc that goes out to camps will contain a supply of new cards with vital information and support on this subject. Canal camps can be wonderfully exciting and fulfilling experiences but they are also very different to many people’s day to day lives. Take the time to recognise and look after your own mental health, and keep an eye on those around you. The changes, challenges and losses over the last couple of years may have affected people differently, but small acts of kindness can go a long way.

Plant: It is strongly recommended that if you are asked to operate a piece of machinery, where possible you should take it to a quiet corner of the site away from the public, volunteers, obstructions and hazards and familiarise yourself thoroughly with all aspects of this particular model of plant, in all the functions that you may need to use. Consider how the size, age, level of maintenance, and site conditions will all affect how it handles and operates. Consider how this machine varies from one that you were trained on or which you have operated most recently, and how you may have to adapt Martin Ludgate how you use the machine. Find somewhere quiet to familiarise yourself with machinery page 22

Driving: Just because you’ve always driven vans, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should continue to do so. Check that your driver authorisations are still valid and more importantly check how you are feeling. Think about how differently a fully loaded van will handle and manoeuvre, including braking and stopping distances compared to your own vehicle, and adjust your driving style to suit. Driving the vans requires more mobility and strength than driving a car; firstly ensure you are able to do this safely and comfortably for the whole journey, and then ensure you are comfortable by adjusting mirrors, seat position and height to suit.

Plant/vans/power tools: Take some time to reacquaint yourself. Read the guidance again, refresh your memory, talk it through with another trained person – there will be something you’ve forgotten! Leaders - consider setting aside an allocated time early in the week/weekend to train or familiarise several volunteers at once.

Beards: Have you grown a lockdown beard? While you now qualify for London WRG membership, be aware that facial hair reduces the effectiveness of face fit masks.

Medication, Allergies and Medical Information: Have you started taking any new medication? Could it affect your ability to operate plant and vehicles? Ensure the site leader is aware of your medical circumstances and the cook is aware of your dietary requirements. Advise the leader or head office if your personal information needs to be updated.

Different/reduced Abilities: Consider if you or your fellow volunteers may have reduced abilities since you were last on site - such as lifting, sight, hearing, mobility, strength and stamina - and consider how the work can be adapted to suit. Reassess your personal circumstance and ensure you are only taking on tasks suitable for you.

Site managers: give all volunteers an induction and explain all site rules and emergency procedures, even if they are volunteers you’ve worked with before. The site and site hazards are likely to have changed considerably and there may be new procedures which volunteers need to be aware of. Even though it might feel like you have been operating this way for a while, it might be the first time some volunteers have been to the site for some time.

All these factors works both ways. It’s the responsibility of the volunteer to inform the site leader of any changes, but equally leaders: don’t presume a volunteer you know well will feel able to jump straight back into all roles. Now available in flightcases and at head office: wellbeing card, Weils disease card and new H&S guide page 23