Health and Safety Policy — Gardening Services Bow

Gardening Services Bow is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for staff, clients and the public. This policy outlines the approach our garden maintenance and landscaping teams take to manage risk and ensure consistent safety standards across all garden projects and routine grounds maintenance. The policy applies to all employees, sub-contractors and visitors engaged with our Bow-area garden services and related operations.

We recognise that safe delivery of garden services in Bow depends on careful planning, adequate training and ongoing monitoring. Responsibilities are allocated so that management provides clear leadership, supervisors implement safe systems of work and operatives follow safe working practices. Everyone is required to cooperate with this policy to reduce the likelihood of accidents, occupational ill health and damage to property.

Risk assessment and work planning

Before starting any task the team completes a proportionate risk assessment and site-specific method statement where necessary. These documents identify hazards such as manual handling, use of hand and powered tools, working at height on ladders, chemical use for weed and pest control, and risks to the public. Control measures will be applied to eliminate or reduce risks to an acceptable level and are reviewed regularly.

All operatives receive practical training covering the safe use of mowers, trimmers, chainsaws and other machinery. An induction explains our procedures for the safe transport and storage of equipment. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is supplied and must be used as required: protective footwear, gloves, eye and ear protection, hi-vis clothing and chainsaw protection where relevant. Equipment is inspected before use and maintained according to manufacturer guidance.

Hazardous substances and environmental controls

We manage hazardous substances in line with recognised safety standards: chemicals, fertilisers and fuels are stored securely, used only by trained personnel and handled with appropriate PPE. Spill kits and clear disposal routes are maintained to protect the environment and public spaces. Staff are trained in safe mixing, application and contingency measures to avoid contamination of watercourses and neighbouring properties.

To reduce noise, dust and vibration impacts during work in residential or sensitive areas, our teams plan operations at suitable times and use low-emission techniques where possible. Where specialist disposal or recycling is required, materials are removed and processed responsibly in line with environmental best practice.

Lone working, first aid and emergency response procedures are in place for all assignments. Operatives carry means of communication and follow a check-in system for isolated jobs. First aid kits are accessible on-site and staff receive first aid training appropriate to their duties. In an emergency, teams prioritise immediate safety, administer first aid and call emergency services when required, then report incidents internally.

Reporting, monitoring and continuous improvement: all incidents, near misses and hazards must be recorded and investigated so lessons can be learned. The policy is reviewed periodically and after any significant event to ensure effectiveness. Management monitors compliance through spot checks, toolbox talks and performance reviews to maintain high safety standards across our garden maintenance and landscaping operations.

Key commitments

• Prevent harm: identify and reduce hazards before work starts.
• Train and equip: ensure staff have the right skills, PPE and supervision.
• Maintain machinery: regular servicing and pre-use checks on all tools and vehicles.
• Environmental care: responsible use and disposal of chemicals and green waste.
• Report and improve: learn from incidents and update practices accordingly.

Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined: senior management provide leadership and resources; supervisors ensure safe systems are applied and workers follow procedures; every employee has a duty to work safely and report unsafe conditions. Contractors engaged for specialist tasks must demonstrate compatible safety standards and co-operate with our on-site arrangements.

Our aim is to deliver reliable, high-quality Bow gardening solutions while protecting health and safety. This document is part of the company’s governance framework and should be read alongside operational procedures and training records. Adherence to this policy is mandatory for anyone performing garden clearance, planting, maintenance or landscape installation under our control.

By maintaining robust risk controls, investing in training and encouraging a positive safety culture, our gardening company in Bow delivers services that protect workers, clients and the wider community. Regular review ensures the policy remains up to date and aligned with best practice for the safe delivery of garden services and grounds maintenance.