Using the Pond Safely

Model Boating has been going on at Setley Pond for many years without any serious accident. However it is important that members be aware of the potential risks and are vigilant in order to maintain our good record. As always "Health and Safety" is mainly a case of using common sense. However Scale Section members are asked to read the Health and Safety policy and summary of the Risk Assessment for use of Setley Pond.

Health & Safety Policy (66Kb)

Risk Assessment Summary (57Kb)

Full Risk Assessment (106Kb)

Summary of Health issues with regard to Pond Use

Although a beautiful model boating venue, Setley Pond is an enclosed body of still water which is frequently visited by New Forest animals. This results in some potential health hazards which will be briefly summarised, sources of more detailed information are provided below.

• Animal attacks Despite their horns (photo above) the highland cattle tend to be timid, but the ponies can occasionally be a nuisance (especially if they have been illegally fed by visitors) - in either case be wary of coming between a mother and her offspring! Also, know the pony's warning signals (see leaflet below). Ponies kick as well as bite!


• Leptospirosis is transmitted in urine and droppings from cattle and rats (the latter causing Weil's disease). In the UK, very few cases are associated with recreational water pursuits, however it is a serious illness if not treated, and members should be aware of the possible symptoms.


• Bacterial infection has become a more serious risk in recent years with the prevalence of E. coli O157 in cattle. Children under five are particularly vulnerable and should be carefully supervised (see the Health Protection Agency leaflet).


• Algal Blooms If the water looks a strange colour and easily forms froth it may be due to an algal bloom. These can produce allergens or toxins, particularly when the organisms die following the bloom. We are not aware of Setley Pond ever having had a bloom of harmful nature, but members should be aware that such a risk exists.

In summary, provided members are aware that the pond water is a potential source of infection and apply routine hygiene measures (washing hands before eating etc.) the risk from water borne disease should remain low. We are not presently aware of any cases of illness attributable to using Setley Pond. However there have been (very rare) incidents of ponies damaging cars or models.

Sources of further information:

	Forestry Commission Leaflet about New Forest Ponies (1.7Mb)		Water Borne Disease information (86Kb) [source:British Rowing Association]
	Health & Safety Executive Leaflet on Leptospirosis (238Kb)		Health Protection Agency Leaflet on Bacterial Infection (1.1Mb)