Our Policy
Everyone who attends Chipping Norton Green Gym is expected to act in a responsible manner, especially where the health and safety and well-being of members and any visitors to our work sites are concerned.
All our work-party tasks are suitable for volunteers. New volunteers will be shown how to use tools and equipment, effectively and safely, including PPE (personal protective equipment). A risk assessment is carried out before each session and leaders will pass on details of any relevant hazards.
We take a clearly marked first‑aid kit to all sites, and several members are qualified first‑aiders, for whom first-aider armbands are provided. We keep our tools and equipment in good order so that they are safe to use. Tell the leader if you find an unsafe or broken tool. Note that our policy is not to use power tools.
Gentle warm-up exercises help prevent muscle strain, especially in cold weather.
When necessary, instruction will be given on the use of a particular tool,
for example, if you fancy the relaxing art of scything.
When you come out with us please …
Listen carefully to advice and instructions given by the leader – and follow them! If for any reason you decide to leave the work site before the end of the session, it is important to let the leader know. If this is because you feel unwell, please say why (in confidence). Wear clothing suitable for the task and weather; regarding footwear, we ask that you wear work boots or stout shoes. Personal protection equipment and special clothing are provided as needed, such as gloves, goggles, waders, safety helmets. It may be advisable – even in summer – to wear long sleeves, trousers and socks as a precaution against, for example, nettles and ticks (which can carry Lyme Disease).
Only use tools you have been trained to use and feel comfortable with. Follow instructions on carrying tools safely and placing them sensibly when not in use.
Make sure that your actions never put anyone else in danger. Be aware that members of the public may be nearby and we must also ensure their safety. Never work on your own away from the rest of the group; always work with at least one other person. Tell the work‑party leader and other members of the group if you notice any new hazard. Make the leader aware of any personal medical conditions you think they should know about, e.g. diabetes, back injury. Report to the leader any accidents and dangerous incidents. These are recorded in the Accident Book and used to try to improve safety in the future.
There are several precautions you should take before attending Green Gym tasks …
Please check that your tetanus protection is up to date. If you are recuperating from an illness or injury or are taking medication and if you think there is any chance that you might be adversely affected by any physical exertion, check with your GP. Tell the membership secretary of any new illness, injury or emergency contact details, so that information given when you first registered with this Green Gym can be updated.
All volunteers are covered by our insurance policy for personal accident and public liability. In this respect, it is important that correct safety procedures are followed.