# Gardening safety & hygiene guide Gardening is generally safe and healthy, but soil, plants, and outdoor environments can carry certain risks. This guide explains common gardening-related hazards and simple ways to reduce them. > Make sure you are vaccinated against tetanus and related vaccines, and every 10 years get a booster to be sure. --- ### 1. Soil-Related Risks ### Possible Risks - Bacteria and parasites naturally present in soil - Animal droppings (cats, rodents, birds) contaminating soil - Fungi that may enter through cuts or wounds - Old or contaminated soil near buildings or sheds ### Safety Tips - Wear gardening gloves when handling soil or compost - Avoid touching your face while gardening - Cover cuts or scratches with waterproof bandages - Wash hands thoroughly after gardening - Avoid inhaling dust when soil is dry (lightly water first) --- ### 2. Compost & Fertilizer Safety ### Possible Risks - Compost may contain bacteria, fungi, or mold spores - Animal manure can carry pathogens if not properly aged ### Safety Tips - Use well-composted material only - Wear gloves when handling compost or manure - Avoid breathing in compost dust - Wash hands after use - Keep compost away from children and pets --- ### 3. Plant-Related Risks ### Possible Risks - Toxic plants (some ornamental plants are poisonous) - Thorns, splinters, or sharp leaves - Skin irritation from plant sap ### Safety Tips - Learn which plants in your garden are toxic - Wear long sleeves when pruning or clearing plants - Use proper tools instead of bare hands - Wash skin after contact with unfamiliar plants --- ### 4. Insects & Animals ### Possible Risks - Insect bites or stings (bees, wasps, mosquitoes) - Ticks in tall grass or wooded areas - Rodents or burrowing animals contaminating soil ### Safety Tips - Wear long trousers and closed shoes - Use insect repellent if needed - Check skin for ticks after gardening - Avoid gardening in areas with visible rodent droppings - Keep food and drinks covered outdoors --- ### 5. Water & Irrigation ### Possible Risks - Stagnant water attracting insects - Contaminated water sources ### Safety Tips - Avoid standing water where possible - Use clean water for irrigation - Do not drink from garden hoses unless labeled potable - Wash produce thoroughly before eating --- ### 6. Harvesting & Food Safety ### Possible Risks - Soil bacteria on vegetables and herbs - Contamination from animals or insects ### Safety Tips - Wash all harvested produce thoroughly - Peel or cook vegetables when appropriate - Keep harvested food off the ground - Use clean containers and tools --- ### 7. General Gardening Hygiene - Wash hands after gardening - Keep tools clean and dry - Change clothes if heavily soiled - Store gloves and tools away from food areas - Avoid eating while gardening --- ### A few other risks - Be careful with natural products, like reed or reed fences. Wasps and hornets can use this as building material and might surprise and sting you. - Be cautious of hiding places for mosquitoes. Turn empty pots upside down, don't let water sit in it. ### Summary - Soil is a natural environment and contains microorganisms - Simple hygiene measures greatly reduce risk - Gloves, handwashing, and clean tools are key - Most gardening risks are preventable with basic precautions > Gardening is safe and beneficial when good hygiene and awareness are practiced.