The Hidden Risks Facing Allotments

Of course, every allotment site is different, so this is not intended to be a complete list. However, these examples can provide a helpful starting point for committee discussions and site risk assessments.

Risks beneath your feet

Water and hazardous substances

Water and chemicals support allotment activities, but they require careful management.

Ponds
Ponds can encourage wildlife and improve biodiversity, but they also present a risk to children, visitors and members. For example, a pond may become difficult to see when plants grow around it. Its edges may also become slippery, increasing the risk of injury or drowning.

Set clear rules about whether ponds require permission and which safety measures plot holders must use. Depending on the site and insurance requirements, these might include fencing or a fixed grate that prevents someone from falling into the water. To maintain these standards, you may need to carry out inspections and keep records of agreed arrangements.

Water butts and tanks
Large water containers can become unstable, particularly when placed on makeshift stands, while unsecured lids may also allow children or animals to fall in. In addition, leaks can create slippery ground and stagnant water may introduce hygiene concerns.

You can reduce these risks by setting standards for stable bases, secure lids and suitable positioning, supported by regular checks and prompt repairs.

Chemicals, fertilisers and manure
Chemicals, liquid fertilisers, fuels and contaminated water may leak or run into adjoining plots, shared paths, drainage channels or watercourses. Poorly positioned manure can also create concerns about odour, hygiene and contamination.

Potential issues include:

•  Unlabelled containers
•  Chemicals left within reach of children
•  Leaking products
•  Fuel stored near sources of heat or ignition
•  Spillages spreading into neighbouring plots
•  Run-off entering shared drainage systems or watercourses
•  Incompatible substances stored together
• Manure or animal waste stored near paths, boundaries or facilities
  

Site rules should explain how members must store, label, use and dispose of potentially harmful substances. They can set expectations around where manure, fuel and chemical products may be kept.

In addition, provide a clear process for reporting spills or suspected contamination and have a plan for dealing with unidentified chemicals. Committee members and volunteers should not handle unknown substances without suitable advice or protection.

Rats and other pests

Poorly managed waste, animal feed and compost can attract vermin. An infestation may affect several plots and create concerns around disease, contamination and bites. Unsafe traps or poisons can introduce further problems.

Your association can help by setting rules for food waste and animal feed, encouraging secure storage and asking members to report signs of an infestation. Where action is required, the committee may need to coordinate pest control and seek advice from the council or a qualified contractor. You should also discourage the unauthorised use of poisons, which could harm people, wildlife and domestic animals.

Review the risks on your site

No article can cover every hazard faced by every allotment association. The risks will depend on the size and layout of the site, the facilities provided, the activities allowed and the people who use it.

You should review risk assessments regularly and whenever something changes. This might include installing a pond, changing the way communal areas are used, allowing animals on site or introducing new storage facilities.

It is also worth checking that the information held by your insurer remains accurate. Undeclared activities, outdated property values or incorrect member numbers could affect whether your policy meets your needs.

Protect your allotment association with Chris Knott Insurance

Chris Knott Insurance provides specialist protection for allotment associations, with standalone Liability Insurance starting from £69 per year.

Their knowledgeable team can talk you through the risks linked to members, volunteers, property, events and committee responsibilities. They can also review your current arrangements to check that your policy reflects the activities taking place across your site.

Contact Chris Knott Insurance today to discuss your association’s activities and find cover suited to the way your site operates.