Safety, equipment and organisation

Most fencing work requires a wide selection of tools, as the job may entail clearing vegetation, digging holes, carpentry as well as handling and straining wire. Fencing requires the use of heavy tools, including crowbars, mells and post drivers, and particular attention is drawn to using these tools in a safe manner. The handling and straining of wire, especially barbed wire and high tensile wire, also presents risks. Safe working practices must be followed at all times.

When working with a group of volunteers, careful organisation is needed to use all the labour effectively, and to keep a close eye on progress along a length of fence. Complex or long fencing tasks should not be attempted with only one experienced fencer.