Adverse Weather Policy

1. Policy Statement

At Root & Wild Ltd, the safety of our gardens and the quality of our service are our top priorities. This policy outlines our approach to planning, decision-making, and communication in the event of adverse weather conditions that may affect our ability to safely and effectively deliver garden maintenance services.

2. Definition of Adverse Weather

Adverse weather includes any conditions that could pose a risk to the safety of staff, clients, or the public, or significantly impact the quality or feasibility of our work. Examples include:

  • Heavy rainfall and flooding

  • Snow and ice

  • High winds (typically constant of over 32mph)

  • Extreme heat or UV exposure

  • Electrical storms

  • Fog or poor visibility

3. General Principles

  • We will not undertake any work where conditions compromise safety, access, or service quality.

  • Safety is always prioritised over productivity.

  • We aim to communicate with clients as early as possible if rescheduling is required.

  • When conditions are marginal, site-specific decisions will be made based on a dynamic risk assessment.

4. Roles & Responsibilities

Directors/Managers will:

  • Monitor weather forecasts and warnings daily.

  • Assess risks and determine whether scheduled work can proceed.

  • Communicate changes or cancellations to clients promptly.

  • Rearrange work where necessary within the same working week.

Gardeners will:

  • Arrive prepared for forecasted conditions (e.g. rain gear, sunscreen, water).

  • Carry out dynamic risk assessments on-site before beginning any task.

  • Report any unsafe conditions immediately.

  • Cease work if conditions become dangerous during a visit and inform a manager.

5. Specific Conditions

Rain & Waterlogged Ground:

  • Minor rainfall does not stop work unless it affects safety or effectiveness.

  • No mowing or heavy movement on saturated lawns to avoid damage.

Snow & Ice:

  • Work may be postponed if paths, roads, or sites are unsafe.

  • Gritting may be required at site entrances if access is necessary.

High Winds:

  • Hedge cutting, tree care, or use of ladders and long-reach tools is suspended in winds over 32mph.

  • Gardeners should not work under trees if the wind speed is considered high (32mph or more)

  • General garden work may also be paused if debris or falling branches present a risk.

Extreme Heat - temperatures above 31 degrees celsius:

  • Work will be rescheduled, shortened, or split into cooler times of day.

  • Regular breaks, hydration, and sun protection are required.

Lightning:

  • All outdoor work is suspended immediately during electrical storms.

6. Client Communication

  • We will notify clients by 8am if work may need or needs to be cancelled or postponed due to weather.

  • Where possible, postponed work will be rescheduled within the same week.

  • Clients are encouraged to provide alternative access arrangements (e.g. sheltered tool storage or outdoor taps) to support flexibility.