Health & Safety Policy for Gardeners Erith

The purpose of this policy is to state the commitment of Gardeners Erith and associated teams to protect the health, safety and welfare of all staff, subcontractors, clients and members of the public while carrying out garden maintenance and landscaping services. Our objective is to reduce risks in every job we undertake, fostering a culture where safety is integral to quality garden care across the service area. This policy applies to all operations delivered by Erith gardeners and related personnel.

Policy statement and responsibilities

We are committed to ensuring that all garden maintenance Erith activities are planned and executed in a way that prevents injury and ill health. Those employed by the company and teams working under the brand have defined responsibilities to follow safe systems of work and to report hazards. The organisation will provide appropriate resources to meet this policy, including training, equipment and supervision. Every worker has the right and duty to stop work if they believe an activity is unsafe.

We will carry out and record site-specific risk assessments for each job type, whether routine lawn care, hedge trimming or larger landscaping tasks. Risk control measures will be proportionate and practical and will include consideration of weather, proximity to public areas, underground services and access. Key duties include:

• Assessing risks before works begin and implementing control measures
• Ensuring machinery is serviceable and used by trained personnel
• Maintaining clear communication channels between teams
• Recording and reviewing incidents and near misses

Training, competence and supervision

All staff engaged in garden services in Erith and surrounding areas receive proportionate training relevant to their role. Training covers safe operation of powered equipment, manual handling, use of personal protective equipment, and safe working near public footpaths and roads. Supervisors are responsible for checking competence and arranging refresher training. Managers will ensure that new starters are inducted and that ongoing training needs are identified through performance reviews and risk assessments.

Equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintenance

The safe condition of tools and machinery is critical. All petrol-driven and electric equipment will be inspected prior to use and serviced according to manufacturer guidance. PPE, such as protective gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, high-visibility clothing and cut-resistant trousers for chainsaw work, will be provided and must be worn where required. Equipment faults must be reported and taken out of service until repaired. Safe storage and transport of equipment are also part of our standard procedures.

For specific tasks we will offer additional controls: for example, guards and data sheets for powered tools, secure fencing around excavation areas, traffic management for verge works, and safe handling instructions for any horticultural treatments. Records of maintenance, inspections and PPE allocations will be kept and reviewed regularly.

Working methods and higher-risk activities

Activities that involve working at height, tree maintenance or use of hazardous substances require specific controls. For ladder work and elevated platforms we apply the hierarchy of controls: avoid working at height where possible, use appropriate access equipment, and ensure competent supervision. For arboricultural tasks, only trained operatives using certified equipment will carry out pruning, felling or climbing. When using approved horticultural products, operators will follow product labels and safe handling procedures, storing substances securely and disposing of waste responsibly.

Responsibilities are allocated to ensure clarity of duty. Supervisors will monitor compliance and site leads will ensure risk controls are in place before work begins. Staff must report defects, near misses and unsafe conditions immediately so that corrective actions can be taken. The company will investigate incidents to identify root causes and implement lessons learned.

Emergency response, reporting and continuous improvement

Emergency arrangements include accessible first aid provision, clear procedures for contacting emergency services, and plans for dealing with fires, chemical spillage or severe injuries. Incident reporting is mandatory for all employees: a simple, confidential process allows rapid notification and documentation. Records are used to track trends and to prioritise corrective actions. Regular audits, toolbox talks and site inspections ensure that policies remain effective and relevant to the nature of garden services performed by Erith gardeners.

Monitoring and policy review: This policy will be reviewed at planned intervals or following a significant incident or change in work activities. Continuous improvement is supported through feedback from staff, audit findings and operational reviews. The aim is to maintain safe, reliable garden care in the community, ensuring that garden maintenance Erith services are delivered with professionalism and respect for the safety and wellbeing of everyone affected.