Volunteer Safety Statement As part of the Beach Guardian Program, Surfrider is committed to supporting volunteers in conducting safe, effective, and impactful beach cleanups. All Beach Guardians must complete an onboarding process that includes signing Surfrider’s Volunteer Waiver, attending an in-person orientation, and reviewing safety protocols and environmental guidelines. During orientation, volunteers are trained on how to identify and avoid hazardous materials, protect sensitive habitats, and document data responsibly. While we strive to provide clear safety guidelines and ensure volunteers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to conduct cleanups safely, we cannot guarantee that all cleanup areas will be free of potential hazards. These may include, but are not limited to, sharp metal objects, broken glass, needles, or chemical containers. There are also inherent risks associated with environmental conditions and physical exertion during cleanups. At every cleanup, volunteers are reminded to exercise caution, wear protective gear, stay hydrated, and avoid any materials that may pose a risk to personal health or safety. Hazardous items should not be handled and must be reported to the appropriate beach governing authorities. Volunteer safety is a top priority. However, by participating in cleanups, volunteers acknowledge that they do so at their own risk. Transportation DisclaimerParticipation in the Beach Guardian Program is entirely voluntary. Volunteers are solely responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from cleanup sites or volunteer activities. Surfrider Foundation does not provide transportation, does not direct or supervise travel, and is not responsible for the means, route, timing, or safety of travel to or from any volunteer activity. Any travel undertaken in connection with participation in a cleanup, including driving, biking, walking, ridesharing, or use of public transportation, is done at the volunteer’s own risk. Volunteer safety is important to Surfrider, however, by participating in Beach Guardian activities, volunteers acknowledge and accept that they participate at their own risk and assume responsibility for their personal safety, including risks associated with travel to and from volunteer events. Prohibited Equipment & ActivitiesTo protect volunteer safety and ensure consistency across Beach Guardian activities, volunteers may only use hand tools and personal protective equipment approved or recommended by Surfrider Foundation. The use of heavy machinery, motorized equipment, automated tools, or mechanized devices is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, construction equipment, power tools, automated cleaning devices, or any machinery requiring specialized training, licensing, or supervision. Volunteers may not operate or bring any equipment that could pose a heightened safety risk to themselves, other participants, or the surrounding environment. Surfrider Foundation does not authorize or supervise the use of such equipment and assumes no responsibility for injuries or damages arising from prohibited activities or equipment. Volunteer Hours & Authorized Participation WindowBeach Guardian volunteer activities are limited to designated cleanup periods scheduled during daylight hours only. Participation outside of these designated hours is not permitted. Overnight activities, camping, or after-hours volunteering are strictly prohibited. Volunteers must check in and check out according to established procedures and may only participate during approved event timeframes. Surfrider Foundation does not authorize, supervise, or assume responsibility for any activities conducted before check-in, after check-out, or outside approved volunteer hours. Volunteer Hours & Authorized Participation WindowBeach Guardian volunteer activities are limited to designated cleanup periods scheduled during daylight hours only. Participation outside of these designated hours is not permitted. Overnight activities, camping, or after-hours volunteering are strictly prohibited. Volunteers must check in and check out according to established procedures and may only participate during approved event timeframes. Surfrider Foundation does not authorize, supervise, or assume responsibility for any activities conducted before check-in, after check-out, or outside approved volunteer hours.
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