Den Building Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Carrying sticks or logs — Instruct children to carry long sticks upright and to the side or drag them if longer than arms. Never allow swinging of sticks. Assign carrying pairs for heavier loads. Observe and correct carrying methods as needed.
• Falling structure or collapse — Guide build technique (wide base, stable joins). Test each structure before use. No child allowed inside until stability is confirmed. Dens must be supervised during use. Dismantle carefully at session end to avoid injury.
• Branches falling from canopy — Conduct a canopy check before building. Remove or cordon off areas beneath dead or overhanging branches. Cancel or relocate activity after high winds. Keep children informed of tree hazards.
• Emergency first aid delay — Ensure qualified first aider is always present. Carry a stocked first aid kit with burn treatments and allergy meds. Know the fastest emergency access point and have charged phone.
• Thorns or brambles — Identify bramble areas during site check and mark or clear before session. Ensure children wear long sleeves and trousers. Supervise movement near dense vegetation and demonstrate gentle detangling techniques.