Health and Safety Policy — Hedge Trimming Greenwich

Purpose and scope: This Health and Safety policy sets out the standards and expectations for safe working practices during hedge trimming in Greenwich and surrounding service areas. The policy applies to all staff, contractors and visitors involved in hedge maintenance, hedge care and associated garden work. It provides a clear framework to reduce risk, protect employees and the public, and ensure that Greenwich hedge trimming activities are carried out responsibly.

This policy reflects our commitment to hazard identification, risk control and continuous improvement. It summarises responsibilities, required training, personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency procedures and record keeping. All operatives must follow the policy to maintain a safe working environment and to support our reputation as a reputable gardening and hedge maintenance provider.

Management responsibilities: Senior management is responsible for ensuring that adequate resources are available to implement and monitor the health and safety arrangements for hedge work. Line managers and team leaders must ensure safe systems of work are in place for hedge trimming Greenwich contracts, that risk assessments are completed, and that safe equipment is supplied and maintained.

Key responsibilities and safe systems

Operational staff are expected to follow instructions, attend training and wear specified PPE. Employees must report hazards, near misses and incidents promptly so corrective actions can be taken. Contractors engaged for specialized tasks, such as high-level trimming or tree work adjacent to hedges, must demonstrate competence and comply with this policy before work starts.

Risk assessment and planning: Before any hedge maintenance or hedge trimming services commence, a competent person must carry out a site-specific risk assessment. The assessment should consider traffic, pedestrians, utilities, wildlife, nesting birds, slopes, access, overhead lines and the suitability of equipment. Controls must be proportionate and documented, with higher-risk tasks subject to formal method statements.

Common control measures include: safe exclusion zones, supervision, written work plans, traffic management where necessary, and ensuring operatives are fit for work. The employer will ensure that a regular review of risk assessments is carried out, particularly when conditions change or new hazards are identified.

Equipment, PPE and maintenance

All tools and machinery used for hedge care in Greenwich and nearby areas must be suitable for the task and inspected before use. This includes powered hedge cutters, hand tools, ladders and elevated work platforms. Faulty equipment must be removed from service until repaired or replaced. Maintenance records must be kept for powered equipment and lifting/access devices.

Personal protective equipment: Operatives must wear appropriate PPE, which may include: high-visibility clothing, cut-resistant gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, sturdy boots and leg protection where powered cutters are used. PPE is a last line of defence and should be used alongside engineering and administrative controls.

Training, competence and supervision: Everyone involved in hedge trimming and landscape services must receive training relevant to their role. Training covers safe operation of equipment, manual handling, working at height, use of PPE, traffic awareness and environmental considerations. Supervision levels are set according to task complexity and the experience of operatives.

Emergency procedures and first aid provisions are in place for all sites. Appointed first aiders, clear access routes for emergency services, and procedures for dealing with incidents such as severe injury, fire or hazardous spills must be available. Incidents and near misses will be recorded and investigated to prevent recurrence. The organisation promotes a culture of reporting and learning.

Environmental and wildlife considerations are integral to our approach. When performing hedge maintenance we take steps to avoid harm to nesting birds and protected species, adhering to seasonal guidance where applicable. Waste management, safe disposal of cuttings and responsible use of fuel and lubricants are part of our environmental controls.

Monitoring, review and continuous improvement: The policy will be reviewed regularly and following significant incidents or legislative updates. Performance is monitored through site inspections, toolbox talks, audits and staff feedback. Records of training, incident reports, equipment maintenance and risk assessments are retained and made available for review. The organisation is committed to continual improvement in health and safety performance for hedge trimming and garden maintenance operations.

Responsibilities at a glance:

• Employer: Provide resources, set policy, ensure competence and monitor compliance.
• Managers: Complete risk assessments, implement controls and maintain records.
• Employees: Follow safe systems, use PPE, attend training and report hazards.

Scope and applicability: This policy applies to all hedge trimming, hedge maintenance and gardening service activities carried out by our teams. It is designed to be practical for on-site use and compatible with safe working across the service area, including domestic and commercial sites.

Final statement: By following this Health and Safety policy, those involved in hedge trimming Greenwich activities contribute to a safer workplace and a trusted service. The organisation expects full cooperation from all personnel to uphold these standards and protect everyone affected by our work.