Health & Safety Policy — Gardeners Teddington

Introduction

This Health and Safety Policy sets out the standards, responsibilities and procedures for Gardeners Teddington and affiliated teams providing gardening and grounds maintenance services. It is designed to protect staff, clients, members of the public and property while delivering high-quality landscape, garden care and maintenance services across our service area. The document reflects a commitment to safe working practices, risk reduction and continuous improvement.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors and sub-contractors engaged by Teddington gardeners while carrying out horticultural works, including planting, pruning, turfing, hedge management, pesticide application and use of powered equipment. It covers site-based operations, travel to and from assignments, storage and maintenance of tools and responsibilities for safe systems of work.

Responsibility for implementing the policy lies with senior management and site supervisors, with day-to-day ownership delegated to team leaders. All personnel are expected to co-operate with safe working arrangements and to report hazards without delay. Regular briefings, toolbox talks and documented risk assessments form part of our routine health and safety management.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems

Before any job commences a formal risk assessment will be completed and recorded. Assessments will identify potential hazards such as uneven terrain, overhead utilities, hazardous flora, chemical exposure and manual handling risks. Controls will be proportionate and may include exclusion zones, traffic management, use of mechanical aids and restrictions on lone working during higher risk tasks.

We maintain documented safe systems of work for high risk activities. These include but are not limited to powered machinery operation, tree work at height, pesticide handling under COSHH principles and confined space awareness for garden structures. All safe systems are reviewed after incidents or significant changes to work methods.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and specified according to task risk: gloves, eye and ear protection, hi-visibility wear, cut-resistant clothing and suitable footwear. PPE use is mandatory where identified; supervisors will ensure compliance through checks and corrective action.

Training, Competence and Supervision

Our training programme ensures that operatives possess the necessary competence for their roles. Training covers safe equipment operation, first aid awareness, manual handling techniques, pesticide safe use, and emergency procedures. Records of training and qualifications are maintained centrally and reviewed during performance assessments.

Supervision is tailored to the complexity of the work. New or inexperienced staff are supervised until assessed as competent. Regular refresher training and on-the-job assessments help sustain standards. We encourage a learning culture where staff feel confident to raise concerns and propose safety improvements.

Emergency arrangements include appointed first aiders on site, accessible first aid kits and clear instructions for contacting emergency services. Incident reporting procedures require immediate notification of injuries, near misses and property damage, with formal investigation and corrective actions recorded.

Equipment, Plant and Chemical Safety

All machinery and tools used by Teddington gardening services are subject to routine inspection, maintenance and safe storage. Only authorised persons may operate powered plant and such operators must follow manufacturer guidance and site-specific controls. Faulty equipment is removed from service until repaired.

Chemicals and pesticides are handled in line with control of hazardous substances principles. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all substances and storage complies with safe segregation. Application only takes place within approved conditions and with client notification where relevant.

Environmental protection is integrated into our safety practices: spill kits are available, waste is managed responsibly and measures are taken to protect wildlife, watercourses and neighbouring properties. Sustainable working methods are encouraged to reduce risks and environmental impact.

Roles and Responsibilities

Management will ensure adequate resources for health and safety, maintain this policy and review it annually. Management will lead on compliance, monitoring and continuous improvement.

Supervisors and Team Leaders are responsible for implementing controls, briefing staff and ensuring safe practices on every job. They must ensure risk assessments are current and that PPE is used correctly.

All staff must work safely, report hazards and participate in training. Visitors and clients must follow site instructions to maintain safety standards. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action to protect everyone involved.

Monitoring and Review

We monitor performance through inspections, audits and review of incident trends. Lessons learned are incorporated into revised procedures and training. This policy is regularly reviewed and amended as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, operations and industry best practice.

• Regular site inspections to identify and mitigate new hazards
• Scheduled equipment servicing to prevent failures
• Ongoing training to maintain competence

By adhering to this Health and Safety Policy, Gardeners in Teddington commit to protecting people, property and the environment while delivering reliable, professional gardening services across our service area.