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Child climbing tree in forest
Forest Schools

Tree Climbing Risk Assessment Template

The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for tree climbing activities.

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Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026

In This Guide

1 Introduction2 Benefits3 Hazards4 Checklist5 Related

Essential guidance for tree climbing safety

Tree climbing is a natural and rewarding activity that develops physical confidence, risk assessment skills, and connection with nature. With appropriate supervision and tree selection, children can safely experience climbing.

This guide covers key hazards including falls, branch failure, getting stuck, and safe tree selection criteria.

Tree climbing adventure
Outdoor Learning
Outdoor Learning
Activity Benefits

Why tree climbing matters

Physical Development

Builds strength, coordination and spatial awareness.

Risk Assessment

Develops personal risk assessment and decision making.

Confidence

Builds self-confidence through physical challenge.

Perspective

Provides new viewpoints and connection with trees.

Risk Identification

Key hazards & control measures

FallsHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Fractures, head injury, sprains from falling out of trees.

Control Measures
  • Height limits enforced
  • 3-point contact rule
  • Soft landing surfaces
  • Close supervision
Branch FailureHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Falls when dead or weak branches break under weight.

Control Measures
  • Trees pre-assessed
  • Dead wood identified
  • Minimum branch thickness
  • "Test before trust" taught
Getting StuckMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Panic, prolonged exposure, injury from attempting rescue.

Control Measures
  • "Come down same way" rule
  • Adult positioned to assist
  • Calm coaching provided
  • Emergency plan ready
Weather ConditionsMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Slips from wet bark, exposure in high winds or storms.

Control Measures
  • No climbing in wet conditions
  • Activity cancelled in high winds
  • Weather monitored
  • Appropriate clothing worn

This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 24 hazards and 78+ control measures for Tree Climbing, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.

Safety Checklist

Tree climbing safety checklist

Tree Selection

  • Tree species suitable
  • No dead branches
  • Roots firmly anchored
  • Good branch structure

Before Climbing

  • Weather conditions suitable
  • Ground checked for hazards
  • Rules explained
  • First aid kit accessible

During Climbing

  • Height limits observed
  • 3-point contact used
  • One climber per section
  • Adult positioned to assist

Safety Rules

  • Test before trust
  • Come down same way
  • No jumping from trees
  • Ask before climbing new tree

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