Bird Strike Prevention Toolbox Talk

Construction activities can increase the risk of bird strikes involving vehicles, cranes, heavy equipment, aircraft supporting construction operations, and temporary structures. Bird strikes can injure wildlife, damage equipment, interrupt operations, and create safety hazards for workers. Effective bird strike prevention combines planning, awareness, habitat management, and safe operating practices to reduce the likelihood of collisions while protecting both people and wildlife.

This toolbox talk reviews common bird strike hazards, prevention measures, and worker responsibilities for reducing collision risks during construction activities.

Why This Matters

• Bird strikes can injure or kill wildlife and create hazards for workers.
• Collisions may damage vehicles, cranes, equipment, or project infrastructure.
• Bird activity often increases around food sources, standing water, and nesting areas.
• Proper planning reduces operational delays caused by wildlife encounters.
• Protecting birds supports biodiversity and responsible environmental management.

Common Bird Strike Hazards

• Construction vehicles traveling through areas with high bird activity.
• Cranes, hoists, and lifting operations near nesting or feeding areas.
• Temporary lighting attracting birds during low-light conditions.
• Standing water attracting waterfowl and other birds.
• Food waste and unsecured trash attracting birds to the site.
• Birds nesting on equipment, structures, or stored materials.
• Workers startling birds into the path of moving equipment.
• Limited visibility caused by weather, dust, or low light.

Safety Checklist

Before Work Begins

• Review project wildlife management procedures and known bird activity areas.
• Inspect equipment, cranes, structures, and stored materials for nesting activity before use.
• Identify nearby wetlands, ponds, or habitats that may attract birds.
• Remove food waste and secure trash containers to discourage bird activity.
• Eliminate standing water where practical and permitted.
• Ensure operators understand procedures for reporting bird activity or nesting concerns.

During the Workday

• Remain alert for birds flying near equipment, vehicles, and lifting operations.
• Operate vehicles and equipment at safe speeds appropriate for site conditions.
• Inspect work areas if bird activity increases unexpectedly.
• Do not disturb active nests or attempt to remove birds unless authorized under project procedures.
• Use only approved wildlife deterrent measures where required.
• Report repeated bird activity, nesting, or bird strike incidents to your supervisor immediately.

Crew Talking Points

• Where are the areas of highest bird activity on today's project?
• How can housekeeping reduce the number of birds attracted to the site?
• What should operators do if birds are flying around active equipment or lifting operations?
• Who should be notified if an active nest is discovered?
• Why should workers avoid disturbing birds unnecessarily?
• Speak up immediately if you notice increased bird activity, nests on equipment, or conditions that could increase the risk of bird strikes.

Stop Work If

• Active nesting birds are discovered within the immediate work area.
• Bird activity creates an immediate hazard for lifting operations, vehicles, or equipment.
• Protected bird species or nesting areas may be affected by planned work.
• Wildlife protection measures required by the project are missing or ineffective.
• Work activities could unnecessarily disturb protected nesting areas.
• You are unsure how to safely respond to significant bird activity.

Final Reminder

Bird strike prevention protects both workers and wildlife. Stay alert for bird activity, maintain good housekeeping, inspect equipment for nests before use, use approved deterrent measures, and report wildlife concerns promptly. By planning work carefully and respecting environmental protection measures, construction activities can be completed safely while minimizing impacts on local bird populations.