Pond & Water Feature Care Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Waterborne disease and biological agents — Glove up and cover cuts; wear eye protection and waterproofs. Avoid hand-to-mouth contact; wash or sanitize before eating. Use disposable sleeves for foul work. Brief on leptospirosis and gastro risks; keep vaccination status current. Decontaminate tools/PPE and segregate contaminated waste.
• Wildlife and biting insects — Scan for nesting birds, territorial swans, wasp nests and rodents; set exclusion distances. Use long-handled tools to increase separation. Apply repellents and wear long sleeves; schedule at cooler times. Brief bite protocols; call pest control if activity indicates infestation.
• Welfare, changing and hygiene facilities — Provide warm water, soap, and hand-drying; supply clean towels and spare gloves. Designate changing space for wet PPE; bag contaminated clothing separately. Provide drinking water, shade or heated shelter as seasons require. Ensure toilet access; brief on hygiene before breaks and at close.
• Electrical systems and pumps — Lock out and tag out supplies; test dead before handling cables, pumps, or lights. Use 110 V tools or RCD-protected circuits; keep connections above splash level. Inspect flexes and glands; route cords off walkways. Re-energize only after re-assembly and leak tests by a competent person.
• Water access and immersion — Plan work to avoid entering water; use reach tools, stable platforms and edge protection. If wading is essential, use chest waders with belts, a buoyancy aid, and a buddy line. Define no-go zones, carry throwlines, and rehearse rescue. Suspend work in fast flows or poor visibility.