Team member reviewing a garden site for safety

Health & Safety Policy — Gardening Services Twickenham

Gardening Services Twickenham is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for staff, clients and the public. This policy sets out how our Twickenham gardening services and related garden maintenance activities will be planned, managed and delivered to reduce risk and prevent injury or damage. The purpose of this statement is to make clear the responsibilities we accept and the practical measures we apply every day. Safety is integral to quality garden care.

Scope and Objectives

This policy applies to all employees, sub-contractors and operatives engaged by our gardening company Twickenham, covering routine lawn care, hedge trimming, tree work support, planting schemes and hard landscaping associated with garden upkeep. Our objectives are to: identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls; ensure competence through training; provide appropriate protective equipment; and promote continual improvement through reviews and audits.

Operatives conducting a risk assessment at a property

Risk Assessment and Planning

Before any work, a documented risk assessment is carried out by a competent person. Key steps include:

Site survey to identify hazards such as slopes, overhead power lines, traffic exposure and public access.
Assessment of tools and machinery that will be used, ensuring safety guards and shields are fitted.
Evaluation of environmental factors including weather, ground conditions and ecological considerations.

Safe Systems and Equipment

Our garden maintenance in Twickenham follows safe systems of work. All powered equipment is maintained to manufacturer standards, with records kept for servicing, inspections and repairs. Operatives are trained in safe starting, operation and shut-down procedures for mowers, strimmers, chainsaws and powered hedgers. Personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, eye protection, hearing protection and hi‑vis clothing is provided and its use is enforced. We adopt toolbox talks to reinforce safe methods and seasonal hazards.

First aid kit and emergency response in a garden van

Training and Competence

We ensure all staff have the skills and knowledge to carry out their duties safely. Training covers manual handling, working at height when using ladders, safe use of hand and power tools, and plant machinery awareness. Competency is verified through practical assessment and supervision. New staff receive an induction that emphasises our health and safety principles and emergency response procedures.

Safe handling and storage of chemicals used in weed and pest control is controlled by written procedures and secure storage. Substances that may be hazardous are labelled, used according to instructions and disposed of responsibly. Where specialist pesticides or plant protection products are necessary, only certified operatives administer them and application follows best practice to protect clients, pets and wildlife.

Emergency Procedures and First Aid

We maintain clear emergency arrangements for incidents such as injuries, allergic reactions, or fuel spills. First aid kits are available on-site and at our vehicles; designated first-aiders are trained and contactable. Emergency access routes are kept clear and staff are briefed on incident escalation and reporting. In case of serious incidents, work is stopped immediately and the site is secured until it is safe to resume.

Barriers and signage protecting public near gardening work

Public Safety and Site Management

When operating in public or shared spaces our operatives take extra precautions to protect pedestrians and neighbouring properties. This includes erecting temporary barriers where necessary, placing warning signs, controlling debris and ensuring safe disposal of green waste. Our approach to working near roads, footpaths and communal areas minimises risk through planning, supervision and use of appropriate signage and attendants when required.

Supervisor reviewing health and safety records in the field

Monitoring, Reporting and Continuous Improvement

Incidents, near misses and unsafe conditions are reported and investigated to prevent recurrence. Regular site inspections and health and safety audits measure compliance with this policy. We maintain records of training, equipment checks and risk assessments to support ongoing improvement. Our commitment to excellence means we review procedures after each project and update our practices in response to new hazards, technologies or regulatory guidance.

Responsibilities: Management is responsible for policy implementation and resourcing safe work. Supervisors ensure daily compliance, and every operative must follow safe systems, wear PPE and report concerns. Clients are asked to provide accurate site information and notify us of specific site constraints or sensitivities. Together we create safer outcomes for all.

Policy Review: This Health and Safety Policy for Twickenham gardening services is reviewed at least annually and revised as needed to reflect changes in operations, equipment or evidence from incident investigations. The policy is an active document that supports the delivery of reliable, safe and professional gardening service in the local area.