Biosecurity, health and safety for outdoor events
The Society continues to ensure that sensible precautions are taken at RFS events to keep members, volunteers and hosts safe.
Biosecurity
As an educational charity, the RFS must lead by example on the biosecurity measures recommended by the Forestry Commission (FC) and Defra to minimise the risk of spreading soil-borne tree infections. You can make a difference to stopping the spread of tree diseases. Clean boots are a first step!
For further information, please see the following Forestry Commission biosecurity guidance:
- Biosecurity advice for forest visitors – watch the Forestry Commission videos
- Guidance for industry professionals
- Biosecurity kit advice
Ticks and Lyme disease
Populations of ticks carrying Borrelia are distributed widely throughout the UK. Late spring, early summer and autumn are peak feeding times for ticks. A lower level of feeding activity takes place in other seasons. Therefore, the risk to humans is potentially year-round. View our fact sheet and other information on Lyme Disease here.
Safety
RFS meetings take place out in the woods in all weathers:
- Appropriate footwear and clothing should be worn.
- Please be aware of your health and safety at all times.
- Do not take risks that could put you or others in danger.
- Do not attempt to do anything that you do not feel confident about.
- Please follow instructions.
The RFS is a member of the Forest Industry Safety Accord.
If you have any questions about this page, please email events@rfs.org.uk
