What is a Biosecurity Plan?
A biosecurity plan is a site-specific plan detailing the measures that need implementing to minimise the risks of spread of Schedule 9 invasive non-native weeds (INNW) by shutting down contamination pathways to and from the site.
It's important to implement a biosecurity plan whenever work is happening on a site with a known or suspected infestation of invasive species, especially if in the vicinity of the site there are people or homes, vulnerable species, sensitive habitats or other assets that need to be protected. Allowing INNW to spread into the wild is an offence, and spread to neighbouring land or houses may result in legal action or remediation costs. (See laws in England/Wales and Scotland)
The type of plan produced will vary according to factors such as the invasive species present, severity and spread of infestation, the activity happening on the site and the surrounding environment (e.g. urban, rural, roads etc.).
Biosecurity Risks From Infected Sites
Many invasive plants and animals are spread by the movement of people and equipment from place to place. However, due to visiting site staff, the movements of plant and large volumes of soil being shifted around or off-site on many construction sites, it can greatly increase the risks of INNW spreading beyond the site boundary.
Mud and vegetation debris can easily collect on vehicles and plant coming on and off-site, particularly vehicle/plant tyres with deep tread and excavator tracks. Personnel clothing and footwear can also be a source of spread, so should be checked regularly. There is also a risk of spread due to improper disposal, for example of cleared vegetation or contaminated soil.
To help combat the accidental spread of INNW, the Non-native Species Secretariat has produced a “Check Clean Dry” strategy. Although originally developed for water sports and activities, it can be applied to many situations where INNW are present or sensitive habitats need protecting, including construction sites.
You can learn more about Check Clean Dry on our article about Invasive Water Plants.
Biosecurity Plan Steps
The first step in preparing a biosecurity plan is to conform the presence invasive plants and/or animals and whether they are located within or adjacent to the works due to take place.
It should then outline appropriate counter-measures to prevent the spread of INNW off-site or to unaffected areas. For invasive weeds species such as Japanese Knotweed with dormant rhizome networks following treatment, this should include measures to avoid disturbance of affected areas. The plan should also highlight obligations of site personnel, what they need to be aware of and any additional training required.
The plan then needs to be implemented during the works, and if necessary, monitored by an expert to ensure biosecurity measures are being carried out appropriately and in accordance with the plan.
Biosecurity Good Practice
The presence of INNW should be included in all relevant site documents, such as site method statements and ecological protection plants, where appropriate. Ongoing treatment/management of INNW should also be included. A designated Clerk of Works should be nominated to manage the INNW.
Detailed risk assessments should be carried out to identify the risks involved in plant and personnel movements, come up with measures to reduce the risks and ensure any implications and legal requirements are understood.
Avoid using tracked vehicles where possible within infested areas. Any vehicles leaving the infested area or used for transporting contaminated soil/material should be thoroughly pressure washed in a designated wash down area. Material and water left after washing should be collected and disposed of appropriately.
Where appropriate, designate plant and equipment to one site or another, to prevent cross-contamination between affected and clean sites.
In areas of wider infestation that goes beyond the site boundary, speak to adjoining landowners and try to treat all affected areas together where possible to prevent re-contamination.
How ERS Can Help
ERS’ Invasive Weeds team have lots of experience preparing biosecurity risk assessments and biosecurity plans for a wide variety of invasive non-native plant species, including Japanese Knotweed, Giant Hogweed, Himalayan Balsam and many more. They regularly prepare plans both in-house for ERS’ work and for other clients. Our team also regularly travel to clients’ sites to advise on biosecurity measures and ensure plans are being implemented correctly.
Contact us today if you need a biosecurity plan or activity risk assessment for your site or would like to discuss whether one is necessary with our expert team.
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