Tree Climbing Risk Assessment
Create a professional, comprehensive risk assessment for tree climbing in forest schools settings. Tailor hazards and measures to your needs and download a professional PDF. Add your own branding.
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What this covers.
This template focuses on typical risks and controls for tree climbing in forest schools settings. You can add, remove or adapt items to match your context.
Potential benefits
- Improves gross motor coordination, balance, and strength through climbing activity.
- Strengthens connection with nature and respect for trees and wildlife.
- Enhances body awareness and movement planning during complex climbs.
- Teaches risk assessment and decision-making at height in a supervised setting.
- Promotes resilience through repeated practice and overcoming fear.
Typical hazards & measures
- Climbing above others — Only one child allowed per tree. Staff establish clear safety zones around trunks, and climbers pause if people enter that zone. Ground-level activities kept at distance.
- Branch strength & stability issues — Staff assess trees before climbing, checking canopy, branches, trunks, and roots for deadwood, decay, looseness, or tilt. Climbing restricted to structurally sound trees with branches thicker than a child’s wrist. Children taught to visually identify brittle or damaged wood and test holds by applying body weight gradually. Wobbling or unstable trees marked off-limits.
- Peer pressure — Group culture promotes choice and consent. Staff reinforce that not climbing is equally valued. Children supported in making their own decisions without judgment.
- Limited exit routes — Children only climb to a point they can independently return from. Staff guide safe descent routes and ensure clear verbal contact. Climb support drills practised beforehand.
- Environmental & wildlife hazards — Staff inspect trees and surrounding areas for insect nests, ant trails, wildlife activity, and sap-prone species before climbing. Climbing avoided near active nests or during sensitive nesting seasons. Children wear clothing that reduces skin exposure, avoid touching unknown sap, and are briefed on staying calm if encountering animals. Gloves provided for those with sensitivities. First aid kits include antihistamines and bite/sting creams, and staff know children’s allergy history.
How to use this template
- Click Create Risk Assessment: Tree Climbing to begin immediately.
- Review suggested hazards and measures, then tailor as needed.
- Download your PDF. Create a free account if you want to save.
FAQ
Do I need an account to start?
You can begin filling out your risk assessment straight away. Create a free account if you want to save your work.
Can I download a PDF?
Yes - download a clean, professional PDF at the end.
Can I edit a saved assessment?
Yes, personal and unlimited members can edit saved assessments from the account dashboard.
