Maintaining grass verges and green spaces is a vital task, ensuring safety for road users, however it’s important to be aware of the hidden risks that some plants pose for the workers carrying out these grass cutting programmes. Toxic and invasive species such as giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed, and Himalayan balsam thrive amongst our native species, posing a danger to those carrying out cutting duties.
Understanding the threat
These plants can often be mistaken for harmless species, making it tricky to differentiate between those that are safe, and those that can pose serious risks. Toxic plants cause severe health issues; for example, the sap of the giant hogweed can lead to painful burns and long-term sensitivity to sunlight.
Case study: In 2021, an operative in the UK was strimming a section of bush which contained giant hogweed. Having touched the toxic sap, their skin became burned, and they suffered a long-term sensitivity to light. This meant they could no longer continue their work.*
Such incidents highlight the urgent need for effective identification and management strategies to prevent harm to maintenance workers and the general public.
Strategies for Management
The key to managing these risks lies in education, awareness, and the use of advanced technology. Local authorities play a crucial role in this process, implementing strategies that include:
Education and awareness: Raising awareness about the identification of toxic plants and the risks they pose is fundamental. Informative campaigns can empower community members to report sightings, contributing to a comprehensive approach to management.
Use of technology: Digital tools and solutions, like Our Grass SMART system, offer a powerful means to track, manage, and communicate the presence of hazardous plants. By integrating location-based data and alerts into maintenance schedules, these systems ensure that workers are forewarned of potential dangers, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Proactive management measures: Beyond identification, local authorities can adopt proactive measures such as targeted herbicide application or physical removal to control or eradicate toxic plants. These actions, coupled with regular monitoring and reporting to bodies like the Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS), form a robust defence against the spread of these plants.
Collaboration between local authorities, environmental agencies, and the public is essential to build knowledge and safeguard those working in or enjoying urban green spaces. Here at KaarbonTech, we continue to innovate with our advanced solutions to ensure the risk is minimised and workers kept safe.