Funnel Web spiders ("grass" spiders) shouldn't be a problem, unless you live in Australia. Most arachnid experts seem to agree that the only really dangerous ones in the US are Widows (Black and Brown), and the Brown Recluse ("Fiddle spider"). Of course that doesn't mean other varieties couldn't give you a nasty bite, and some people are allergic to the venom, which could be a big problem. Most spiders are actually pretty shy & try to keep out of your way. The trouble comes when you reach into somewhere and don't see them. They're pretty much programmed to attack only the things they eat - insects. But if they're threatened they will bite. So the best advice is probably to use gardening gloves. We frequently have Golden Orb Weavers (aka "Garden spiders") and some other chunky red ones that I have yet to identify (they spin very thick, strong webs, almost like fishing line!) I'm always amazed at how many bugs they catch. Anything I see with an exoskeleton in the house will quickly become a stain, but outside I generally leave them alone if possible.
