Wildlife Exclusion Toolbox Talk

Construction activities can unintentionally place wildlife at risk by exposing animals to excavation hazards, heavy equipment, traffic, noise, chemicals, and other jobsite dangers. Wildlife exclusion involves using approved methods to prevent animals from entering active work areas while allowing construction to proceed safely. Proper exclusion measures protect both workers and wildlife by reducing the potential for injury, property damage, and unnecessary environmental impacts.

This toolbox talk reviews common wildlife exclusion practices, worker responsibilities, and safe procedures for preventing wildlife from entering active construction zones.

Why This Matters

• Wildlife entering work areas may be injured or killed by construction activities.
• Animals can create safety hazards for workers by entering excavations, equipment operating areas, or roadways.
• Proper exclusion reduces delays caused by wildlife encounters.
• Protecting wildlife supports biodiversity conservation and responsible environmental stewardship.
• Following approved exclusion procedures helps meet project environmental requirements and applicable regulations.

Common Wildlife Exclusion Hazards

• Damaged or missing wildlife exclusion fencing.
• Open excavations trapping animals.
• Construction materials or waste attracting wildlife.
• Equipment operating near active wildlife habitats.
• Workers attempting to feed, capture, or relocate wildlife without authorization.
• Gaps in barriers allowing animals to enter the work area.
• Vehicles striking wildlife within or near the project site.
• Failure to inspect exclusion measures after severe weather or site changes.

Safety Checklist

Before Work Begins

• Review project-specific wildlife protection and exclusion requirements.
• Inspect wildlife exclusion fencing, barriers, gates, and other protective measures for damage.
• Identify nearby habitats, migration routes, nesting areas, or environmentally sensitive locations.
• Verify excavations have required protective measures, escape ramps, or covers where specified by project procedures.
• Remove food waste and secure materials that could attract wildlife.
• Ensure workers understand reporting procedures for wildlife encounters.

During the Workday

• Keep wildlife exclusion barriers intact and immediately report any damage.
• Close access gates or openings when they are not actively being used.
• Stay within approved work areas and avoid disturbing nearby habitats.
• Do not feed, chase, capture, or relocate wildlife unless specifically authorized and trained.
• Inspect work areas, equipment, and excavations for wildlife before beginning operations.
• Report wildlife inside the work zone to your supervisor and follow project procedures before continuing work.

Crew Talking Points

• Where are today's wildlife exclusion barriers and environmentally sensitive areas?
• What types of wildlife may be encountered on this project?
• How should workers respond if wildlife enters the active work area?
• Why is it important to inspect excavations and equipment before use?
• How can good housekeeping reduce wildlife attraction to the site?
• Speak up immediately if you notice damaged exclusion fencing, trapped wildlife, or activities that may disturb protected habitats.

Stop Work If

• Wildlife enters the active work area and could be harmed by ongoing operations.
• Protected wildlife or sensitive habitats are discovered within the planned work zone.
• Wildlife exclusion barriers are damaged or no longer effective.
• An animal is trapped in an excavation, structure, or work area.
• Work activities threaten protected species or violate established environmental protection procedures.
• You are unsure how to safely respond to a wildlife encounter.

Final Reminder

Wildlife exclusion protects both animals and workers by keeping construction activities and wildlife safely separated. Maintain exclusion barriers, inspect work areas regularly, avoid disturbing wildlife, practice good housekeeping, and report wildlife concerns immediately. Responsible wildlife management helps preserve biodiversity while supporting a safe and efficient construction project.