Garden Safety Policy
1.0 GENERAL PREAMBLE
1.1 Callis Garden is a Community Garden space. Its aim is simple: To conserve and enhance the existing nature conservation interest of the site and to provide local people with an accessible place in which to enjoy nature.
1.2 It is designed to be a pleasurable leisure and educational facility, operated on a voluntary basis by members of the community.
1.3 This document was last revised and updated on 28 August 2023.
2.0 THE GARDEN AREA
2.1 The garden extends from the river bank to the canal towpath.
2.2 Gardening is generally a low risk occupation, though there will be occasions when risks are increased due to factors such as new tools being used, heavy weights being moved, holes being dug, surfaces being slippery or weather being extreme through heat, cold, rain or wind strength.
2.3 All work is done in the garden is on a voluntary basis and will include some members with little or no skill or experience through to those with sufficient expertise. Any member who does not feel confident in carrying out any operation should ask for assistance. Special account must be taken of the fact that English may not be the first language of some members taking part in activities.
2.4 All members should remember to carry a mobile telephone with them listing the contact numbers of the Committee members who can be contacted in case of emergencies, see Appendix 1. This is especially important if working alone; but see paragraph 6 below.
3.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Members must ensure that when at the garden, you wear suitable clothing and footwear for the work proposed. Gloves will be provided, but appropriate footwear with closed toes and suitable soles together with other garments should always be worn. Safety goggles are available when necessary.
4.0 USE OF EQUIPMENT
4.1 All members must use the correct tools and equipment for the job and not try to adapt tools and equipment for purposes they were not designed for. If you are unsure how to use a piece of equipment or a tool, do not use it; ask for further instructions. Also bear in mind that others may be working close to you or behind you. Take care not to put tools or equipment down in places where others may be working. All tools and equipment should be returned to the tool shed or handed to a committee member at the end of each session.
5.0 PLANT AND MATERIAL HANDLING, LIFTING, DIGGING
5.1 There will be occasions when large plants and other items need to be moved or lifted and holes dug.
5.2 When lifting, look at the object initially and try and gauge the weight, and if you think it looks too heavy, ask for help – do not try to lift it on your own.
5.3 When lifting, get close to the object and bend your knees and keep your back straight. Get a good grip of the object and lift using your legs, keeping your back straight. Try and keep the object as close to your body as possible. When putting the object down, again, bend your knees, keep your back straight.
5.4 Be aware that some objects may be top heavy and ask for assistance to stop them tipping over.
5.5 When digging holes, use the correct tools, and be aware if anyone is standing close to you. Do not leave large holes unattended without erecting a suitable barrier and/or warning sign.
5.6 Be aware that the surface you are working on may be uneven or slippery, and if unsure, ask for help.
6.0 LONE WORKING
6.1 The garden is a communal venture, so generally members should not work alone. On occasions when this is necessary, e.g. when watering or weeding, members should remember to have a mobile phone with them so that a committee member can be informed if any problems occur. A list of committee members’ contact numbers is attached at Appendix 1, and this is also available in the tool shed where a copy of this report is located.
7.0 CUTS, GRAZES, BANGS AND BUMPS
7.1 A first aid kit is available in the gardening equipment shed and cabin to deal with minor cuts, grazes and bumps. If appropriate the injured person should report to the nearest A&E department for a tetanus injection or other necessary treatment. Drinking water can be collected from the onsite tap and the cabin may be used as a refuge if needed.
7.2 Slips, trips and falls can be a common occurrence. They can be avoided by wearing appropriate footwear, paying attention to the working area, concentrating on what is going on around you and not leaving tools and equipment lying around or in dangerous places. Please remember what tools have been taken from the tool shed and ensure they are returned at the end of the session.
8.0 STINGS AND BITES
8.1 Members must be aware that some plants in the garden such as nettles and brambles can sting or scratch, there are ant nests and some other insect nests in parts of the garden where the insects, such as wasps, may bite or sting if disturbed. Wearing gloves, long sleeves and long legged trousers will help mitigate harm, but if this happens, stop work, let a Committee member know so appropriate action can be taken to warn others of the problem.
9.0 USE OF MECHANICAL AND OTHER EQUIPMENT
9.1 Only trained people are to use mechanical equipment such as lawn mowers and strimmers. Members should not use other mechanical equipment unless they have been properly trained. Members must be aware that some tools, such as the long handled shears and loppers, are sharp and they must be used correctly
10.0 MINOR CARPENTRY AND OTHER WORKS
10.1 There will be occasions when minor carpentry and other work is required for the maintenance of gates, fencing and raised beds, or the provision of new facilities. Members who are not confident using hammers, saws, drills or other equipment should refrain from this activity and report any work that needs carrying out to a committee member.
11.0 SECURITY OF TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
11.1 Tools and equipment will be stored in the tool shed and must be returned after use. Please let a committee member know about any damage or breakages
12.0 GARDEN CANES
12.1 Be aware that garden canes can have sharp ends that can cause injury to the face. If appropriate, mark the end of the canes with tape or a soft end cap.
13.0 WEATHER
13.1 There will be occasions when work is done during adverse weather, and members should prepare themselves accordingly. In winter, dress for warmth and be prepared for rain. In spring, summer and autumn, be aware of sunburn. Use appropriate sun cream with a high enough UV factor and wear a hat.
13.2 There is drinkable water available at the site.
14.0 POND AND OPEN WATER
14.1 Members should be aware that there are two small ponds at the Garden in the centre near the towpath. There is also a larger pond behind the central hedgerow near the fire pit. Care must be taken when working in these areas.