– Tree Canopy Assessment undertaken
– We may close some parts of the Garden (where we find higher risks of branches/ debris falling)
– Those working outside are instructed to take extra precautions for personal safety
– No work at height is permitted during high winds unless it is an emergency and would be a greater risk not to complete the works. In which case it can only be undertaken if every safety measure is in place and the individual is accompanied by a colleague
– Contractor/ Building works onsite may be stopped based on a dynamic risk assessment
– If safe to do so the wind-speed to be monitored every 15 minutes. If the GUSTING OR AVERAGE WIND SPEED does not decrease from 30mph within 60 minutes then ALL STAFF VOLUNTEERS AND CONTRACTORS are to be dismissed for the day and sent home
– Suitable signage is to be placed on entrances to the garden, the website and telephone system is to have a suitable message placed on it

Decision-making with regard to high winds
The decision to close the Garden due to High Winds is made through the Visitor Experience team (Duty Manager), Horticulture Team (Responsible Gardener) working together to make a recommendation to the Deputy Director (Visitor Experience) before making a final request/update to the Director.

• Whether trees are safe = responsible gardener
• Areas to cordon off = responsible gardener
• Keeping garden open/closed = The Director or Deputy Director – with input from duty manager and responsible gardener
Who is the responsible Gardener?
• Nell Jones (NJ) is responsible for trees when she is on site.
• Allison Napier (AN) deputises.
• If neither is on site, one of the Gardeners will be nominated by NJ or AN.
• At the weekends the sole gardener is responsible for trees.

Who is the duty/site manager?
• This information is in the Operations calendar.

	After high winds (while staff are on site or following high winds at night)	When high winds have been forecast/ during high winds
Responsible gardener	Inspect trees and areas around trees when safe to do so.  i.e. when the high winds have passed.  Inspect glasshouses for any damage or dangerous glass If, anything is unsafe, cordon it off Inform duty/site manager immediately or when they are onsite Inform NJ or AN so that reparation work can be arranged Complete high winds tree inspection form Clear up debris	Be alert to changes in wind speed and monitor the weather forecast regularly   If you believe the wind speed is strong enough to cause damage to trees and buildings, notify the Duty/site Manager   Close all vents on glasshouses
Duty/site manager	Inspect buildings for damage   Look at any areas of concern with responsible gardener   Agree that actions taken are appropriate	Be alert to changes in wind speed and monitor the weather forecast regularly   Take wind speed measurements in line with policy   Consult with responsible gardener   Close all vents in the glasshouses (if gardener not on site), clear them of visitors and lock the doors