Red Imported Fire Ants (Solenopsis Invicta)
Red imported fire ants (fire ants) are invasive introduced ants that cause serious social, economic, and environmental harm. They can destroy crops, damage machinery, kill native flora and fauna and render public places unusable. They are aggressive and have a severe, burning sting. Fire ants are not known to occur in New South Wales, but currently infest a large area of South-East Queensland with nests found very close to the NSW border. This proximity makes fire ants one of the highest emerging biosecurity risks to NSW as well as posing an existing biosecurity risk in QLD.
Actions Required
- All personnel who work or plan works within the fire ant infested areas must undertake training prior to works commencing. This includes, completing the online DAF training module found here and attending a local toolbox presentation on fire ants presented by the Environmental Advisor. Certificates of completion for the online training must be kept on file.
- Any suspected sightings of fire ants must be reported to the ARTC Environment Advisor ASAP and reported to the relevant authorities within the appropriate reporting timeframes.
- All workers are to familiarise themselves with the good vehicle hygiene practices and implement them as required. Further information can be found here and here.
- All works contracts between ARTC and contractors undertaking work on behalf of ARTC must outline the specific requirements in relation to fire ants. o Appropriate awareness and educational information should be included within inductions, pre work briefs, Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and ensure this alert is communicated to all workers.
- Relevant WHS Committees are to be made aware of the human health risks associated and first aid officers are to become familiar with the first aid treatment requirements for fire ant stings.