Latest news with #AlexEssex
Daily Record
19 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Record
How to avoid common garden hazards this summer according to experts
A study has shown around 300,000 people are injured in their gardens annually, with over 87,000 hurt while gardening or tackling outdoor projects and it's often these silent hazards that are the worst. As Brits bask in the summer weather, spending more time in their gardens, there's a particular hazard they need to be aware of. Experts caution that moss, algae and lichen, commonly found in gardens, are responsible for thousands of slips, trips and skin reactions each year. Research by RoSPA reveals that around 300,000 people suffer injuries in their gardens annually, with over 87,000 harmed while gardening or undertaking outdoor projects, and it's often these silent hazards that pose the greatest risk. Patio and garden maintenance expert Alex Essex from Patio Black Spot Removal has highlighted five of the most common hidden injury risks lurking in plain sight. The expert also offered some valuable advice on how to stay safe this summer while enjoying your garden, as reported by the Mirror. Slippery moss and algae One thing we have in abundance in the UK is rain, but these damp conditions promote the growth of moss, algae and lichen on patios, steps and paths, creating slick, slippery surfaces. These growths become particularly dangerous after rain or early morning dew, contributing to over 115,000 slips and falls in gardens each year. Prevention tips Regularly clean patios and paths to remove moss, algae and biofilm. Use slip-resistant paving or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas. Apply matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces. Inspect steps and shaded areas, where algae thrives. Repair uneven or sinking paving to prevent tripping hazards. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Lichen damage Despite its harmless appearance, lichen can trap moisture and gradually weaken patio surfaces, leading to uneven and unstable paving slabs. Over time, this can create trip hazards that may result in unexpected falls, particularly for elderly homeowners or young children who might not be as stable on their feet. Prevention tips Regularly check patios and steps following severe weather. Eliminate lichen accumulation before it harms the stonework. Avoid aggressive pressure washing, which can dislodge mortar joints. Thorned and spiked plants. Thorned and spiked plants Most garden enthusiasts will be familiar with the discomfort of a thorn prick, but according to a report, 483 individuals were hospitalised due to thorns, spikes and sharp leaves. Roses, brambles and shrubs may be attractive, but their sharp thorns can easily cause cuts and skin punctures. Prevention tips Maintain thorned plants by keeping them trimmed and well-managed. Always wear sturdy gloves and long sleeves. Exercise caution when using pruning tools on overgrown hedges or shrubs. Toxic plant sap Toxic plant sap can originate from common garden plants such as euphorbia, giant hogweed, and even fig trees. This sap can irritate the skin or cause blistering when exposed to sunlight, and it was discovered that 158 people required medical attention in 2023/24 due to exposure to toxic or harmful plants. Prevention tips Educate yourself to identify dangerous plants in your garden. Wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after contact. Seek medical advice if a rash or blistering appears. Overgrown plants and visibility While we all desire our plants to flourish, those that grow excessively not only appear untidy, but they can also hide trip hazards and obscure steps and edges, potentially leading to avoidable falls. Prevention tips Ensure walkways are free from overhanging plants. Prune shrubs that obstruct lighting or create dark, damp areas where algae can thrive. Frequently inspect for roots or shoots that may be lifting paving stones.
Daily Record
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Householders warned of silent garden dangers hospitalising thousands each year
Gardeners should be aware of silent hazards lurking outside. With summer fully underway, Scots will be spending more time outdoors, especially in their gardens. To prevent any unexpected injuries, experts are now warning gardeners of certain dangers to look out for. Moss, algae, and lichen, which are commonly found in gardens, are reportedly responsible for thousands of slips, trips, and skin reactions every year. A recent study by RoSPA showed that around 300,000 people are hurt in their gardens each year, with over 87,000 of them injured while gardening or carrying out outdoor projects. Silent hazards are often responsible for the injuries. Patio and garden maintenance expert Alex Essex from Patio Black Spot Removal has now told of hidden injury risks hiding in plain sight in your backyard. Alex also shared some top tips on how to stay safe this summer when enjoying your garden. Slippery moss and algae One thing we get plenty of in the UK is rain, but damp conditions encourage moss, algae, and lichen to build up on patios, steps, and paths, creating slick, slippery surfaces. These growths are especially hazardous after rain or early morning dew, contributing to over 115,000 slips and falls in gardens each year, reports the Mirror. Prevention tips: Clean patios and paths regularly to remove moss, algae and biofilm. Use slip-resistant paving or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas. Use matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces. Inspect steps and shaded areas, where algae thrives. Repair uneven or sinking paving to prevent tripping hazards. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Lichen damage Even though lichen looks harmless, it can trap moisture and slowly weaken patio surfaces, making paving slabs uneven and unstable. Over time, this creates trip hazards that can lead to sudden falls, especially for older homeowners or small children who may not be as steady on their feet. Prevention tips: Inspect patios and steps after extreme weather. Remove lichen build-up before it damages stonework. Avoid harsh pressure washing, which can loosen mortar joints. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Thorned and spiked plants Most gardeners will know the pain of being cut by a thorn - but according to a report, 483 people were hospitalised due to thorns, spikes and sharp leaves. Roses, brambles and shrubs may look pretty but their sharp thorns can cause cuts and skin punctures easily. Prevention tips: Keep thorned plants trimmed and well-managed. Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves. Be careful when using pruning tools on overgrown hedges or shrubs. Toxic plant sap Toxic plant sap can come from common garden plants, including euphorbia, giant hogweed, and even fig trees. When exposed to sunlight, this sap can irritate skin or even cause blistering. In 2023/24, 158 people needed medical attention from exposure to toxic or harmful plants. Prevention tips: Learn to recognise hazardous plants in your garden. Wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after contact. Seek medical advice if a rash or blistering develops. Overgrown plants and visibility While we all want our plants to thrive, those that become overgrown don't just look messy, they can also conceal trip hazards and cover steps and edges - which can result in unnecessary falls. Prevention tips: Keep pathways clear of overhanging plants. Trim shrubs that block lighting or create dark, damp spots where algae thrives. Regularly check for roots or shoots lifting paving stones.
North Wales Live
a day ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
Silent garden danger that could be hospitalising thousands of Brits every summer
As Brits bask in the summer weather, spending more time in their gardens, there's a particular hazard they need to be wary of. Experts caution that moss, algae and lichen, commonly found in gardens, cause thousands of slips, trips and skin reactions annually. Research by RoSPA reveals that around 300,000 people suffer injuries in their gardens each year, with over 87,000 harmed while gardening or undertaking outdoor projects. It's often these silent hazards that pose the greatest risk. Patio and garden maintenance expert Alex Essex from Patio Black Spot Removal has identified five of the most common hidden injury risks lurking in plain sight. The expert also offered some valuable advice on how to stay safe this summer while enjoying your garden. Slippery moss and algae One thing we get plenty of in the UK is the rain, but these damp conditions will encourage moss, algae and lichen to build up on patios, steps and paths, creating slick, slippery surfaces. These growths are especially hazardous after rain or early morning dew, contributing to over 115,000 slips and falls in gardens each year. ay include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info Clean patios and paths regularly to remove moss, algae and biofilm. Use slip-resistant paving or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas. Use matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces. Inspect steps and shaded areas, where algae thrives. Repair uneven or sinking paving to prevent tripping hazards. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Lichen damage Even though lichen looks harmless, it can trap moisture and slowly weaken patio surfaces, making paving slabs uneven and unstable. Over time, this creates trip hazards that can lead to sudden falls, especially for older homeowners or small children who may not be as steady on their feet. Inspect patios and steps after extreme weather. Remove lichen build-up before it damages stonework. Avoid harsh pressure washing, which can loosen mortar joints. Thorned and spiked plants Most gardeners will know the pain of being cut by a thorn - but according to a report, 483 people were hospitalised due to thorns, spikes and sharp leaves. Roses, brambles and shrubs may look pretty but their sharp thorns can cause cuts and skin punctures easily. Keep thorned plants trimmed and well-managed. Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves. Be careful when using pruning tools on overgrown hedges or shrubs. Toxic plant sap Toxic plant sap can come from common garden plants including euphorbia, giant hogweed, and even fig trees. This sap can irritate skin or even cause blistering when exposed to sunlight and it was found that 158 people were left needing medical attention in 2023/24 from exposure to toxic or harmful plants. Prevention tips: Learn to recognise hazardous plants in your garden. Wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after contact. Seek medical advice if a rash or blistering develops. Overgrown plants and visibility While we all want our plants to thrive, those that become overgrown don't just look messy, they can also conceal trip hazards and cover steps and edges - which can result in unnecessary falls. Prevention tips:
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Silent garden danger is hospitalising thousands of Brits every summer
As the summer weather continues - many of us will still be spending time in their gardens, but there are some silent hazards that could be lurking outside to be aware of As Brits enjoy the summery weather, spending more time out in the garden, there is one certain danger people need to look out for. Experts warn that moss, algae and lichen, which is commonly found in gardens are responsible for thousands of slips, trips and skin reactions every year. A study by RoSPA show around 300,000 people are injured in their gardens annually, with over 87,000 hurt while gardening or tackling outdoor projects and it's often these silent hazards that are the worst. Patio and garden maintenance expert Alex Essex from Patio Black Spot Removal has shared five of the most common hidden injury risks hiding in plain sight. The expert also provided some top tips on how to stay safe this summer when enjoying your garden. Slippery moss and algae One thing we get plenty of in the UK is the rain, but these damp conditions will encourage moss, algae and lichen to build up on patios, steps and paths, creating slick, slippery surfaces. These growths are especially hazardous after rain or early morning dew, contributing to over 115,000 slips and falls in gardens each year. Prevention tips: Clean patios and paths regularly to remove moss, algae and biofilm. Use slip-resistant paving or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas. Use matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces. Inspect steps and shaded areas, where algae thrives. Repair uneven or sinking paving to prevent tripping hazards. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Lichen damage Even though lichen looks harmless, it can trap moisture and slowly weaken patio surfaces, making paving slabs uneven and unstable. Over time, this creates trip hazards that can lead to sudden falls, especially for older homeowners or small children who may not be as steady on their feet. Prevention tips: Inspect patios and steps after extreme weather. Remove lichen build-up before it damages stonework. Avoid harsh pressure washing, which can loosen mortar joints. Thorned and spiked plants Most gardeners will know the pain of being cut by a thorn - but according to a report, 483 people were hospitalised due to thorns, spikes and sharp leaves. Roses, brambles and shrubs may look pretty but their sharp thorns can cause cuts and skin punctures easily. Prevention tips: Keep thorned plants trimmed and well-managed. Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves. Be careful when using pruning tools on overgrown hedges or shrubs. Toxic plant sap Toxic plant sap can come from common garden plants including euphorbia, giant hogweed, and even fig trees. This sap can irritate skin or even cause blistering when exposed to sunlight and it was found that 158 people were left needing medical attention in 2023/24 from exposure to toxic or harmful plants. Prevention tips: Learn to recognise hazardous plants in your garden. Wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after contact. Seek medical advice if a rash or blistering develops. Overgrown plants and visibility While we all want our plants to thrive, those that become overgrown don't just look messy, they can also conceal trip hazards and cover steps and edges - which can result in unnecessary falls. Prevention tips: Keep pathways clear of overhanging plants. Trim shrubs that block lighting or create dark, damp spots where algae thrives. Regularly check for roots or shoots lifting paving stones.
Daily Mirror
26-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
People warned over patio cleaning mistake that could cost £4,500
The sunny weather has seen a surge in online searches for "pressure washing", but you could be causing costly damage to your patio by getting it wrong Summer garden parties are in full swing, and it's clear that people are keen to spruce up their outdoor spaces, with a staggering 64,000+ spike in online searches for "pressure washing" over the past month. Yet, patio experts warn that this eagerness to blast away grime could lead to costly mistakes. Alex Essex, Managing Director at The Patio Black Spot Removal Company, cautions: "Replacing patio tiles that have been damaged by improper pressure washing can be a costly exercise." Their research indicates that nearly two out of five homeowners are making grave errors with their pressure washers, resulting in significant and pricey damage. Particularly vulnerable are natural stones like sandstone and limestone, which can suffer greatly under the force of high water pressure. Alex underscores the potential financial repercussions of neglecting correct pressure washing methods: "Laying a new patio now costs a minimum of £125 + VAT per square metre for materials like Indian Sandstone or flagstones, and this can rise to as much as £300 per square metre for premium options such as granite or York Stone", reports the Express. For an average-sized 30-square-metre patio, the expert estimates the cost could hit around £4,500 including VAT, accounting for essential groundwork and fitting. How to pressure wash your patio safely. "Sandstone, limestone, granite and marble each have different strengths and weaknesses," Alex mentioned. Always opt for a pressure washer with variable PSI settings. For the majority of surfaces, target a range of 1,200-1,800 PSI, to avoid causing damage, particularly to natural stone surfaces. A broad or fan-shaped nozzle (25-40 degrees) is preferable over a pinpoint jet, which can help lessen the chance of etching or chipping. Test on a small area first to keep an eye out for any unforeseen damage or discolouration before going ahead with cleaning the entire patio. Ensure you stand between 12 to 18 inches from the surface and move the nozzle continuously. "Never concentrate the jet on one spot for too long," Alex cautioned. You should begin cleaning from the highest section of your patio and tackle it in patches, overlapping your movements to deter streaks. It's crucial to steer clear of blasting directly into the gaps between stonework; should any sand be displaced, let the area dry completely and then refill the joints accordingly.
