Health & Safety policy

GENERAL PREAMBLE

• The Barley Community Garden is a local initiative established by residents of Barley. Its aim is to enhance and benefit the physical, emotional and social health of local residents through the shared endeavour of gardening. 

• The garden is operated on a voluntary basis by members of the community.

THE GARDEN AREA

• The garden occupies two plots between the Plaistow and the drive to King Edgar Yard in Barley, Royston. There are dedicated vegetable and flower growing beds, as well as a compost area, wildlife areas and fruit trees. The total area is about 1000 square metres, (0.25ac). 

• 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 uneven or weather being extreme through heat, cold, rain or wind strength.

• 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. 

• 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.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• 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. 

USE OF EQUIPMENT

• 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.  

• Many tools have sharp blades or sharp prongs and these must be used correctly. They should not be left on the ground where others may step on or trip over them. If not being used, or for shorter periods between use, they should be placed in a safe place, clearly visible such as against a perimeter fence.

PLANT AND MATERIAL HANDLING, LIFTING, DIGGING

• There will be occasions when large plants and other items need to be moved or lifted and holes dug. 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• Be aware that some objects may be top heavy and ask for assistance to stop them tipping over. 

• 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. 

• Be aware that the surface you are working on may be uneven or slippery, and if unsure, ask for help.

LONE WORKING

• The garden is a communal venture, so generally members should not work alone. On occasions when this is necessary, e.g. when watering, 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. 

CUTS, GRAZES, BANGS AND BUMPS

• A first aid kit is available during gardening sessions to deal with minor cuts, grazes, bites and bumps. If appropriate the injured person should report to the nearest A&E department for a tetanus injection or other necessary treatment. 

• 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. 

STINGS AND BITES

• Members must be aware that some plants in the garden such as nettles and brambles can sting or scratch, there may be 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, and notify a committee member know so appropriate action can be taken to warn others of the problem. 

USE OF MECHANICAL AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

• Only trained committee members are to use mechanical equipment such as lawnmowers 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

MINOR CARPENTRY AND OTHER WORKS

• There may be occasions when minor carpentry and other work is required for the maintenance of gates, fencing and raised beds. 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.

SECURITY OF TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

• Members are encouraged to bring their own tools and equipment to use. There will be a limited selection of communal tools that can be used. These must be returned after use. Please let a committee member know about any damage or breakages.

 GARDEN CANES

•  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 such as a cane topper.

WEATHER

• 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.

• There is no drinkable water available at the site, so members should bring their own bottled water if required.