Basket Swing – Medium Forest Garden

Bumbles Day Care > My Dashboard > Risk Benefit Assessments > Basket Swing – Medium Forest Garden
Setting Group / Location Created by Date created
Sarah Gilleece
30/03/2026

The medium forest garden has recently been updated to highlight our forest school features. In the garden we can now find a basket swing attached between two trees. While these new features will provide significant play and developmental opportunities and benefits, it is crucial to assess and manage potential risks to ensure the safety of children and adults using the area. This document outlines the identified hazards, their potential impact, existing control measures and the overall benefits of the garden space.

  • Falls from height : Children are most at risk from falling from a height when using the basket swing which can cause injuries such as bruises, bumps to head or in extreme cases broken bones from impact. Staff members should ensure the swing is set to the correct height which is appropriate for younger children. 
  • Collisions and Impacts : A member of staff should always be present in the swing area while it is in operation to ensure other children are waiting in the ‘safe zone’ away from the swing. Staff members must ensure children do not walk through or under the swing path to avoid any collisions that can cause harm or injuries to the child.
  • Supervision : At least one member of staff should always be present at the swing when in use and actively ensure that only 2 children (2-5 year old) or 1 child (5+ years) are on the swing at any one time. While children are using the swing, it is required that they are sitting in the centre of the swing and are instructed not to stand or jump off the swing while in motion.
  • Daily Risk assessments (Structural) : It is essential for members of staff to complete a risk assessment before children enter the garden. During this check, a visual inspection of the swing is required to check for rope wear, loose bolts, or frame instability to ensure the children’s safety while playing outside on the swing.

The new swing feature will provide significant play and developmental opportunities and benefits for all the children as they explore a new garden feature the children will be encouraged to grow their confidence and explore independent play.