Pond & Water Feature Care Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Faulty equipment and tool defects — Pre-use inspect pumps, RCDs, hoses, ladders and PPE; tag out defects immediately. Keep spares and repair kits on site. Follow manufacturer service intervals; maintain logs. Store kit dry and protected from UV/oil. Replace damaged liners, nets and cords; do not improvise with unsuitable tools.
• Participants’ abilities and competence — Verify training for water rescue, LOTO, chemicals and confined spaces before tasking. Pair novices with experienced leads. Set fitness to work and medical disclosure requirements. Limit lone activities; define escalation routes. Use method statements and supervision proportionate to task risk.
• 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.
• 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.
• Confined spaces in plant rooms and sumps — Assess pits and chambers; test atmosphere and ventilate. Implement permit-to-work, standby attendant and communications. Isolate inflows and electrics. Wear harness with retrieval; keep rescue plan and equipment ready. Do not enter without confined-space training and supervision.