PoliciesHealth & Safety

We have many trained staff on site who are trained to handle emergencies. If an emergency arises, please report it immediately to the nearest staff member and follow their directions. If evacuation is necessary, visitors will be directed to return to their vehicles or to a designated safe area and await further instructions from staff.

Emergency services are readily accessible. The nearest municipal fire station and first responders are located just 2.2 km from The Gardens. To ensure the fastest possible response, emergencies should first be reported to Butchart Gardens’ staff, who can immediately dispatch attendants and notify 911, if required.

Yes. All staff are trained to use radios and other communication tools to coordinate with emergency services, security personnel, and one another during critical incidents to ensure a quick and effective response.

Yes. A highly trained First Aid Team is always on duty and equipped with AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) and advanced first aid kits. Our First Aid Attendants are certified to the ‘Advanced’ First Aid standards, the highest and most comprehensive level of occupational first Aid offered in BC, and are equipped to respond to medical emergencies swiftly. First aid staff are radio, pager and cell phone dispatched for redundancy and may be contacted through any staff member or at the Information Centre.

• Controlled entry at all entrances allows staff to monitor attendance levels.
• Hand sanitizer is available at key locations.
• Building ventilation systems are regularly serviced, maintained and optimized to introduce as much fresh air as practicable.
• Some plexiglass remains in place to provide a safety barrier, where practicable.
• High touch surfaces are sanitized more frequently using appropriate virucide.
• Wheelchairs and strollers are disinfected between use.

• Violence, foul language and abusive behaviour are not accepted. Verbal threats or acts of violence will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the facility and/or prosecution.
• No visitors, staff or contractors experiencing signs or symptoms of COVID-19, cold or flu are allowed on property.
• Staff experiencing signs or symptoms of COVID-19, cold, or flu are directed to use the BC Self-Assessment Tool and follow its instructions.
• Company sick policy has been reinforced with staff, with the understanding that staff are to stay home if sick; if they become ill at work, they are sent home immediately.
• Human Resources is closely monitoring and tracking staff illness.
• We adhere to all existing and new guidance provided by our regulators.
• Building ventilation systems are regularly serviced, maintained and optimized to introduce as much fresh air as practicable.
• Mandatory Communicable Disease training for all new and returning staff.
• Work spaces have been modified where possible to increase physical space between staff.
• High touch surfaces are regularly wiped down with a recommended virucide.
• Easy access to hand washing and hand sanitizers.
• Relevant signage and resources are posted throughout staff areas.
• Task-specific PPE is available, including gloves, masks, respirators, and face shields in appropriate locations.

Immediately notify any Butchart Gardens staff member. Our First Aid Team will be dispatched to assess and assist the guest.

In the event of a fire emergency, building alarms will sound. Staff will direct tour guides and visitors to evacuate calmly and efficiently, using marked exits and gathering at designated marshalling areas. Staff will be stationed throughout the grounds to guide guests and ensure safety.

If an evacuation is necessary, staff will guide all visitors to predetermined muster points and provide further instructions. All guests are expected to remain calm and follow the directions of staff.

Yes. If a child or guest becomes separated from their party, report the situation immediately to a staff member. Visitor Services will coordinate efforts to reunite families and friends quickly using established procedures.

Yes. The Gardens have comprehensive response protocols for weather-related events such as extreme heat, freeing temperatures, snow/Ice and natural hazards (wildfire, seismic activity). In such cases, announcements will be made, and staff will direct visitors to shelter or evacuation points as needed.

Yes. All main pathways and emergency routes are accessible for guests with mobility challenges. During evacuations or emergencies, staff are trained to assist individuals with accessibility needs.

We maintain close working relationships with the Central Saanich Police Service (CSPS), Central Saanich Fire Department (CSFD) and the BC Ambulance Service (BCAS).  We are familiar with each other’s responses and capabilities.

The Butchart Gardens works closely with all required municipal, provincial and federal regulators to maintain a valid business license with all required operating certificates.  The Gardens works with regulators such as Technical Safety BC, Island Health, WorkSafe BC, Transport Canada as well as Municipal Fire, Building & Electrical Inspectors to ensure compliance and safety. The Butchart Gardens is also a leading member among various local, provincial, national and international associations and advocacy groups who prioritize best practices and guest experience.