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� 5 Site Safety and Health Plan 1�erracon ±19.41 Acres Vacant Land ■ Manteca, California June 12, 2017 ■ Terracon Project No. NB177049 Fire ants are reddish brown to black stinging insects related to bees and wasps. They build nests of dirt in the ground that may be quite tall (18 inches) in the right kinds of soil. Fire ants may attack with little warning: after firmly grasping the victim's skin with its jaws, the fire ant arches its back as it inserts its rear stinger into the skin. It then pivots at the head and may inflict multiple stings in a circular pattern. Fire ant venom often causes an immediate burning sensation. Preventing stings Personnel should stay out of the "territory" of the stinging insects' nests as much as possible. These insects are most likely to sting if their homes are disturbed, so it is important to have hives and nests around work areas destroyed. Since this activity can be dangerous, a trained exterminator should be hired. If any flying stinging insects are encountered, workers should remain calm and quiet, and move slowly away from them. Many stinging insects are foraging for food. It is important to not look or smell like a flower—avoid brightly colored clothing and perfume when outdoors. Because the smell of food attracts insects, be careful when eating, or drinking sweet drinks like soda or juice outdoors. Keep food and beverages covered until consumed. Workers should avoid loose-fitting garments that can trap insects between material and skin. Treating stings If stung by a honeybee that has left its stinger(and attached venom sac) in your skin, remove the stinger within 30 seconds to avoid receiving more venom. A quick scrape of a fingernail removes the stinger and sac. Squeezing the sac should be avoided—this forces more venom through the stinger and into the skin. Hornets, wasps, and yellow jackets do not usually leave their stingers. Try to remain calm, and brush these insects from the skin promptly with deliberate movements to prevent additional stings. Then, quietly and immediately leave the area. If stung by fire ants, carefully brush them off to prevent repeated stings, and leave the area. Fire ant stings usually result in the development of a blister about 24 hours after the sting. The material in this will become cloudy and appear to be pustular. IT IS NOT! Fire ant venom kills bacteria, this is just dead tissue and should be left alone. It will dry and heal within the next 7 – 10 days. If the blister is opened it must be monitored for secondary bacterial infection. Diabetics and others with circulatory disorders, including varicose veins and phlebitis, can be particularly at risk for complications, and should see a physician to monitor their condition after being stung. Up to 50% of patients develop large local reactions at the site of fire ant stings—swelling may last for several days and may be accompanied by itching, redness and pain. Use topical steroid ointments or oral antihistamines to relieve itching. See your doctor if swelling progresses or if the sting site seems infected. 13