The safety of our volunteers is a top priority for SAS. With that in mind we have created the following guidance for carrying out cleans during the coronavirus pandemic.
Where to clean:
While restrictions ease, please do remember that minimising the spread of coronavirus is paramount. If you do not need to travel outside of your local area to conduct your clean, please don’t. Sadly as plastic pollution is a global issue it is likely that any of our local beaches, rivers or streets would benefit from a clean.
Group cleans:
Current restrictions in England limit outdoor gatherings to 30 people as long as social distancing is maintained. Please refer to the current guidelines in your area for full details of current restrictions; www.gov.uk, www.gov.scot, www.gov.wales, www.northernireland.gov.uk
Equipment:
Hand sanitiser should be available at all cleans and used when the event has finished – we provide this in all kits sent out.
Sharps and PPE:
At this time we would advise volunteers to not pick up needles and other hazardous materials. Instead these should be reported to the local council as soon as possible.
PPE should only be picked up if suitable gloves (e.g. heavy duty gardening gloves) are worn and hands are washed for at least 20 seconds after the event.
If you feel unwell:
If you are displaying any of the symptoms of coronavirus or have been in contact with anyone who has symptoms or has tested positive for coronavirus in the last 14 days please do not attend a clean and follow government guidance.
If in doubt why not complete a #MiniBeachClean! This miniaturised version of an official SAS clean is already a well established staple of an Ocean Activist. Act on your desire to protect our environments from plastic pollution whilst staying safe!
Anything we haven’t covered?:
If you have a query that has not been answered by the above please email [email protected] or check your local government website for guidance on current restrictions.
We are currently monitoring the situation and as such this page will be updated as appropriate.