Planting & Soft Works Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Manual handling of plants — Plan lifts and split loads; use team lifts, dollies or tree trolleys on firm routes. Keep loads close to the body, avoid twisting, and step down kerbs via ramps. Stage pits near drop points to reduce carries. Warm up before heavy tasks and rotate duties to limit fatigue.
• Weather exposure — Check forecast; schedule shaded breaks and provide water, sunscreen and head cover in heat. In cold/wet, layer clothing, use waterproofs and warm shelters. Cease in lightning/high winds; reassess after changes. Rotate heavy tasks to reduce heat/cold strain.
• Slips and trips — Keep walkways clear; stack materials neatly; use anti-slip boards on wet grass/mud. Mark pit edges and move spoil off paths. Route hoses to edges and bridge crossings. Wear ankle-support boots and schedule housekeeping pauses to reset and inspect access.
• Soil compaction from plant — Exclude tracked plant from prepared pits; lay boards to spread load on soft ground. Backfill in lifts and firm gently to eliminate voids without over-compacting. Rake level and remove spoil from paths immediately to prevent rutting and trips.
• Underground services — Obtain and review utility plans; scan with CAT/Genny and mark routes. Hand-dig trial holes to confirm depth/position. Set dig limits and no-mech zones near marks; use insulated tools as required. Stop on warning tape or anomalies and re-survey before work continues.