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Bites and stings

Bites and stings from snakes, spiders, insects and other animals in the work area, which can cause pain, allergic reactions or poisoning.

Also known as: Snakes, Snake bites, Insects, Insect bites, Spiders, Spider bites

How to control bites and stings

  1. Clear vegetation, rubbish and stored materials from the work area to remove places where snakes and spiders shelter.
  2. Look before reaching into pits, holes, roof spaces or stacked materials, and shake out boots, gloves and clothing before use.
  3. Leave snakes alone and call a licensed snake catcher rather than trying to catch or kill them.
  4. Train first aiders in the pressure immobilisation technique for snake and funnel-web spider bites, and keep compression bandages in kits.
  5. Record workers' known allergies, and make sure prescribed adrenaline autoinjectors are carried and others know how to use them.
  6. Wear long sleeves, long trousers, gloves and sturdy boots, and use insect repellent where insects are present.

Typical controls, most effective first. Your SWMS sets the controls for your own job and site.

Templates that cover Bites and stings

SWMS by trade

Hazards that come up alongside it

Legislation these templates cite