Tree Safety in Public Spaces: How to Reduce Risk and Liability

A garden or outside space that’s surrounded by trees, is an area that offers shade, nesting habitat for birds, and structural magnificence for residents and/or members of the public to enjoy.

But it is not without its maintenance needs and safety requirements.

Tree growth can be unpredictable, with different trees subject to different needs throughout the year. Being able to spot signs of disease or poor health is a skill employed by tree surgeons, while identifying the right time for pruning, pollarding, and crown removal is something that falls under commercial tree maintenance in Ipswich and beyond.

In this article, we’re looking specifically at the tree maintenance services that cover public safety and health in open spaces.

Why is Tree Maintenance so Important in Public Spaces?

The best way to recognise the importance of tree maintenance in public spaces and open gardens, is to consider what might happen if a tree is left unmanaged.

Unruly branches, unstable trunks, and unmonitored fungi can all pose a risk to public health and can increase the risk of harm coming to those who pass by or come into contact with a tree. If, for example, a branch falls on a path in strong wind, it creates a trip hazard for those passing by – not to mention the risk of it falling onto someone.

An unstable trunk can again pose a risk to public safety if it breaks and falls onto someone or onto a local structure.

These risks all add up to create high liability stakes for site managers, as well as the potential detriment to their reputation. With that in mind, then, what can be done to minimise these risks and to put public health and safety first?

What Can Be Done to Minimise the Risk to Public Health?

The best way to minimise the risk of trees causing health risks or damage to buildings and other structures, is to take preventative measures.

This is covered under the Elite Trees TreeSurv service that we offer across Essex – carrying out various site visits and assessments which aim to identify signs of disease, decay, and structural disintegration before they become a problem or high risk.

Most surveys start with a ground view assessment, culminating in a written schedule of works that outlines the recommendations of tree surgeons and specialists. These works are all designed to optimise both the safety of the surrounding site and the health of the tree, enabling it to thrive. Any additional conservation and TPO applications can also be conducted to further protect a tree and ensure that it is managed in the safest possible way.

Securing Tree Maintenance Services for Your Public Space

At Elite Trees, we work with clients across the public and private sectors to ensure trees are in good health and remain safe to be around. Every member of the public deserves to enjoy the shade of a healthy tree without risk – and our job is to help make that possible.

Written by

Paul Thomas