Bird Guano without a doubt is unsightly, but it's also a potential health risk to staffand the general public.
Bird Guano - The Risks
There are 3 diseases known to be associated with bird guano: histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis and psittacosis - all can represent a risk to human health. Histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis are fungal diseases that grow in the droppings and soil. Psittacosis is a bacterial disease that spreads when guano dries and guano particles become airborne and are inhaled.
In substantial quantities bird guano’s acidic matter can even cause damage to the fabric of buildings which in turn, leads to higher cleaning and repair bills. Large quantities of guano will also be infested with blood-feeding insects.
Cleaning Up Bird Guano - Health & Safety
Whilst it’s safe to clean up the odd bird dropping, handling guano of any quantity should be done with care - especially large quantities. Measures should be taken at all times to protect staff, contractors and the public’s health if working near a guano cleaning site. There are health and safety regulations that need to be followed when working with or near bird guano. Anyone doing so should observe the regulations below or consult an experienced professional.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, Regulation 3
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/2932)
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994
What Should You Do Next?
If you have a guano problem you should consult a qualified expert due to the risk of disease, the need to remove the problem birds and the need to install bird proofing to stop the bird problem reoccurring. As the nations leading experts:
- We have local branches nationwide
- We provide a free site visit and survey with risk assessment
- We are Safe Contractor approved and CHAS accredited
- There are no call-out charges and we offer free advice and recommendations
To speak to your local bird control technician freephone or find your local branch.
