Ticks
Biological Hazards | 10-15 min
Summary
Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that pose significant health risks to outdoor workers across many industries including construction, landscaping, forestry, utilities, and agriculture. These small arachnids can transmit serious diseases including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. The CDC reports approximately 50,000 cases of tick-borne diseases annually in the United States, though the actual number is likely much higher due to underreporting and missed diagnoses.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other serious illnesses
- Wear protective clothing and use EPA-registered repellents
- Treat clothing with permethrin for added protection
- Conduct full-body tick checks after working in tick-prone areas
- Remove attached ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.