Wildlife Safety
This document will review basic safety guidance on handling wildlife and insect encounters, exposure and bites.
1. Wildlife Encounter Safety Guidance
What steps should I take if I encounter wildlife on the worksite?
1. Take a Safety Moment
Survey your worksite and remain continuously aware of your surroundings.2. Back Away Safely
If you spot wildlife or signs of presence such as tracks, droppings, or nests, slowly back away with caution.
Do Not Run: Running may trigger a chase response in some animals.
3. Shield Yourself
Put a physical barrier or an item you are carrying, such as equipment, a bag, or clipboard, between yourself and the animal.4. Make Noise
Speak firmly or make noise as you move away. In many cases, this helps alert the animal to your presence and encourages it to leave.5. Do Not Engage
Stay calm, create distance, avoid sudden movements, and clear the area.6. Avoid Direct Eye Contact
Direct eye contact may be interpreted by some wildlife as a threat or challenge.2. Incident Response & Reporting
How do I respond to animal bites, scratches, or direct exposure?
- Seek Medical Attention: Remain calm and obtain medical evaluation for bites, scratches, or fluid exposure.
- Report the Incident: Notify your supervisor immediately or within 24 hours of the event.
- Contact Pest Control / Customer Service: Do not attempt to catch or remove the animal yourself. Contact your supervisor or Customer Service at (608) 263-3333 to request Pest Control assistance.
Do Not Attempt Animal Removal Yourself: Leave capture and removal to authorized personnel.
3. Vector & Tick Safety
How do I protect myself from tick-borne illnesses?
Ticks are small arachnid parasites commonly found in grassy, wooded, or brushy environments. They can attach to humans and animals and may transmit tick-borne pathogens.
Key Prevention Guidelines
- Use Insect Repellent: Apply appropriate tick repellent when working in wooded or tall-grass areas.
- Conduct Regular Tick Checks: Inspect clothing and your body during outdoor work and again after returning indoors.
- Proper Removal: If a tick is attached, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Clean the bite site afterward.
Good Practice: Check common attachment areas carefully after outdoor work, including around clothing lines and areas that may be difficult to see.
4. Safety Resources & Links