Natural England - Safety for voluntary batworkers

Safety for voluntary batworkers

Detailed information on safety and the law relating to bat conservation is contained in the Batworkers Manual, a publication produced by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee.

Copies of the manual are usually available on loan to trainee batworkers from Natural England teams. Licensed batworkers or members of local bat groups are eligible to purchase copies of the manual at a reduced price from the Natural History Book Societyexternal link.

Batworkers will be given specific health and safety advice when they sign up as volunteers, but remember the following general safety points:

  • DO NOT enter a bat roost if you consider it to be dangerous. If in any doubt, apologise to the householder for the delay and refer back to your support adviser for advice. Your safety is the first priority.

  • Ensure you work within any limitations you are given.

  • Operate a suitable lone working system.

  • Take your ID card with you.

  • Before you carry out any inspection, ensure you use an appropriate level of protective clothing and equipment and that the equipment is in good condition. Contact your support adviser if any items need replacing.

  • Carry out site risk assessment BEFORE entering the roost – considering the potential hazards identified in the generic risk assessment: (147kb)pdf document.

  • DO NOT deviate from the ladder code.

  • From time to time, read Chapter 2 of the Batworkers Manual to remind yourself of the need for care whilst carrying out your voluntary role.

  • Be aware of steps you can take to protect your personal safety.

  • The ladder code

    The ladder code, as promoted by the Health and Safety Executive, is a list of points to remember to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Batwardens are likely to use ladders regularly, and should ensure they are familiar with the code.

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