Spring nesting season can bring an unexpected workplace safety hazard: territorial geese. As geese protect nests and goslings, they may hiss, spread their wings or charge at employees, visitors or contractors near parking lots, sidewalks, retention ponds, loading areas and facility entrances.

Employers should remind workers not to approach nests, feed geese or run from territorial birds. Employees should face the goose, calmly back away and give it a wide path. Facilities may also want to inspect outdoor areas, post temporary warnings where geese are nesting and keep walkways clear to reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls if an employee is startled.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources notes that geese can become aggressive during nesting season, and injuries often occur when people try to avoid an attack and trip over nearby objects.

“A goose encounter may sound funny until someone twists an ankle trying to escape an angry bird in the parking lot,” said Jacob Sargent, director of public policy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “Seasonal hazards do not have to be complicated to create real workplace risk. A simple reminder to slow down, back away and give wildlife space can help prevent an avoidable workers’ compensation claim.”

Think of nesting geese as temporary security guards: loud, territorial and not interested in your badge policy. 5/11/2026