As a Project Leader the Health & Safety of the Volunteers is our primary concern and duty of care, and should be at the forefront of every decision taken. The Leaders must always set the standard of safe and responsible behaviour, and understand the potential liability of any injury or illness incurred by a volunteer.
1. Project Activities
Under the Think Pacific T&C’s for volunteers and project leaders, the following activities must not be arranged or advised by any member of the Think Pacific staff team due to Health & Safety concerns and Liability conditions:
- Horse Riding
- Rock Jumps / Waterfall Jumps
- Jumping off Boats or Trucks
- Travelling at Sea or by River without a Life Jacket
NB: If arranged independently by the volunteer then no liability is on Think Pacific, however a Leader must not participate in, make arrangements for, or actively encourage the above activities. Leaders must set an example at all times.
2. R&R Activities
If a volunteer enquiries regarding doing a SkyDive / adventure activity as an independent excursion during R&R the Project Leader must advise them to check their insurance policy regarding cover for such activities, and if they do not have the necessary cover the Think Pacific advice must be to not participate in that excursions. (Ultimately it is however at the discretion of the individual)
Project Leaders can make bookings via telephone on behalf of volunteers, but cannot at any point be engaged in receiving payment or transferring funds on behalf of the volunteer. If involved in the payment process, Think Pacific would assume liability for any damages.
3. Building Sites – Build Projects Only
It is essential that Project Leaders maintain the highest possible Health & Safety standards on the Build Site, based on the local surroundings, including the use of hard hats, high visibility jackets and closed footwear by ALL staff and volunteers.
On the first day of project the Leaders and Building Manager must deliver an awareness briefing for the volunteers, including:
- Requirements for Footwear, High Visibility Jackets & Hard Hats.
- Potential Hazards on the Build Site
- Safe & Correct use of Tools. Eg Saws / Hammers / Levels / Chisels / Drills
- Safe lifting techniques
- Communication on Build Site & Importance of Listening to Building Manager & Leaders
NB: Safety advice and guidance should be included throughout the project, with mistakes or unsafe practices highlighted and corrected. The Building Manager can demonstrate techniques as required!
NBB: No power tools to be used during the building process