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Wildlife in the Workplace

Biological Hazards | 10-15 min

Summary

Wildlife encounters occur more frequently in workplaces than many people realize, especially in outdoor industries, facilities near natural areas, and even urban settings. Workers may encounter venomous snakes, spiders, stinging insects, rodents, birds, and larger animals depending on their location. These encounters can result in bites, stings, disease transmission, and injuries from startle reactions. Understanding local wildlife hazards and appropriate responses keeps workers safe.

Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.

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Key Points to Cover

  • Wildlife encounters occur in many work environments
  • Know what species are present in your work area
  • Be vigilant when reaching into hidden spaces or working after storms
  • Keep areas clean of food waste that attracts animals
  • Know appropriate first aid for bites and stings in your region

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.

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