Published: 6 February 2023

A Tree Trunk

A Tree Trunk

The recent health and safety alert regarding tree safety in the 20 January 2023 School Circular (issue 408) highlighted the importance of ensuring those responsible for school premises have effective systems in place to manage trees on their sites, particularly those in areas frequently accessed by pupils, staff and the public.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued an Educational Safety Bulletin to all schools (31 January 2023) who should consider the risks presented by any trees that they are responsible for and ensure a competent person identifies and prioritises trees accordingly, using a zoning system. For example, trees in areas likely to be frequently accessed by pupils, staff or visitors should be allocated to zone 1 with trees in less frequently accessed areas placed in zone 2.

The bulletin explains:

  • Risks and zoning of trees
  • What is meant by a competent person
  • Types of inspections required
  • What to do if defects have been identified
  • Specialist expertise help
  • Effective monitoring and communication processes.

For further support regarding tree inspections and tree work contact Derby City’s Ground Maintenance and Arboricultural Service by emailing: trees@derby.gov.uk

Contact the Corporate Health and Safety Team by emailing: employee.healthandsafety@derby.gov.uk or your external health and safety provider should you required further information or support

Darren Allsobrook
Darren.allsobrook@derby.gov.uk
Health and Safety Team Manager

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