Old Park Farm Garden Holders Association

First of all the association (all of us) are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of all our communal areas. It is therefore important if you see something that could be a hazard and can do something about it yourself then you should. At the very least you should report it to the Secretary or Chairman or any other member of the committee. But the health and safety of yourself and any other visitors to your allotment is your responsibility, we can only advise. If though a tenant is actively ignoring a Health and Safety breach or actively involved in making one then there will be no hesitation by the Committee of this Association to withdraw the tenancy from the tenant.
The following points are designed to be guidelines and are not policy however please bear in mind the previous statement.

1. If possible tell someone you are going to the allotment and carry a mobile phone with you in case you have an accident. The nearest postcode is NG8 4LJ.
2. It’s not advisable to lock your garden gate from the inside. If you fall or become ill how will people get to you. Do not put barbed wire on top of you gate/fence.
3. Always wear safety boots and wear gloves.
4. The water from the mains is fresh but do not store drinking water for more than a couple of days.
   
5. Keep garden chemicals safely, labelled and away from drinking water.
   
6. Never store hazardous materials on your garden.
   
7. Asbestos has been used profusely in allotments over the years, learn to recognise it. If you find some put it to one side and ask for help to remove it from your garden. Do not break it up.
   
8. Glass is also a problem so wear gloves if you are using your hands to move soil. Again collect it and keep it separately.
   
9. Beware of Rats. Do not leave uncovered bird seed in your shed. Do not bring soft furnishings onto your garden, rats will nest in it. Use hand wash or anti bacterial hand rub and again wear gloves.
   
10. Remove dangerous branches from trees on your garden. Contact the Secretary or Chairman if you think a tree is dangerous.
    
11. Keep weeds and brambles to a minimum. Beware of tripping hazards with briars. Don’t let weeds hide dangers. Overgrown gardens are not part of your tenancy agreement.
    
12. Good housekeeping is essential. Put your tools away, clean them after use do not leave hoses etc uncurled. Look at your garden before you leave and make sure nothing will trip you up when you next attend.