Hedge Trimming Newham - Health & Safety Policy

Purpose: This policy sets out health and safety commitments for Hedge Trimming Newham and for any operative delivering hedge maintenance across our service area. It describes how we manage risk when performing hedge trimming in Newham and nearby neighbourhoods, emphasising the safe delivery of hedge care services while protecting staff, clients, contractors and the public.

The policy applies to every task related to Newham hedge trimming, including site set-up, use of powered hedge cutters, manual pruning, working at height, waste handling and transport. It covers routine maintenance, one-off hedge reductions and any associated garden clearance where hedge work is involved. All persons performing or supervising hedge work must follow these procedures without exception.

Risk assessment and planning are core requirements. Before any job, a documented assessment must identify hazards such as underground services, overhead lines, unstable boundaries, wildlife habitats and public access. Control measures will be proportionate to the identified risks and recorded. Job-specific method statements will be produced for higher-risk activities such as working from ladders or mechanical platforms.

Personnel: Only trained and competent staff will undertake hedge maintenance. Training includes safe equipment operation, manual handling, awareness of plant and tree features, and first aid. Staff must hold any necessary certifications for specific equipment. Supervisors will ensure operatives are briefed on site-specific precautions and know how to raise concerns.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory. Operatives must wear appropriate PPE such as eye protection, hearing protection, cut-resistant gloves, sturdy footwear, hi-visibility clothing and leg protection where chainsaws or brushcutters are used. PPE standards will be reviewed and replaced according to wear and safety guidance. The use of PPE is a condition of employment while engaged in hedge trimming duties.

Equipment: All tools and machinery used for hedge cutting and hedge maintenance Newham operations must be maintained to a safe standard and inspected pre-use. Portable appliances, petrol tools and electric cutters must have current maintenance records. Faulty equipment will be taken out of service until repaired. Fuel will be stored and transported securely to avoid spills and ignition risks.

Safe Work Practices

Operatives will follow safe work practices including establishing an exclusion zone to protect the public, securing ladders properly, using harnesses when appropriate, and avoiding work directly beneath overhead electric cables. When roadside hedges are being trimmed, traffic management measures such as cones and signage will be used where necessary to keep workers and pedestrians safe.

Waste and environmental considerations are integral to our operations. Cut material will be removed, chipped on-site where permitted, or left in a safe, tidy manner agreed with the client. Special care will be taken to protect nesting birds and other wildlife during the relevant seasons; if active nests are discovered, work will be adjusted to comply with conservation responsibilities. Spill control kits will be carried when using fuel or lubricants.

Emergency Procedures, Reporting and Review

In the event of an incident, operatives will follow the emergency response plan: secure the area, administer first aid where trained staff are available, and summon emergency services if needed. All accidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences must be reported and recorded promptly so that corrective actions can be taken. Incident reports will be reviewed to update risk assessments and improve safe systems of work.

Supervision and communication: Supervisors will conduct toolbox talks and pre-work briefings to ensure everyone understands their role and the risks present. Clear lines of communication are maintained between hedge trimming teams, clients and any subcontractors. Workers are encouraged to report hazards, stop work if they believe a situation is unsafe, and participate in safety discussions.

Monitoring & audit: The policy will be monitored through regular site inspections, competency checks and audits of maintenance records. Performance metrics include the number of safety observations, corrective actions closed, and training completion rates. Continuous improvement is sought through lessons learned and updates to procedures and training materials.

Responsibilities: Management is responsible for providing resources, leadership and a positive safety culture. Operatives are responsible for following procedures, using PPE and tools correctly and reporting hazards. Clients and property owners must provide accurate site information and allow safe access. This collaborative approach ensures that hedge cutting and associated garden services are delivered safely across our service area.

Review: This health and safety policy for hedge trimming operations will be reviewed at least annually and whenever there is a significant change to working practices, equipment or legislation. Updates will be communicated to all staff and incorporated in training. Adoption of this policy demonstrates our commitment to safe, responsible and professional hedge trimming and hedgerow management.

Compliance: While this document outlines company standards and expectations, it is not an exhaustive legal manual. We align with good practice and industry standards to ensure safe delivery of hedge trimming Newham services and related garden maintenance. All personnel must read, understand and implement the policy as part of their duties.

Signed by management: We are committed to reducing harm and protecting people, property and the environment while delivering reliable hedge care and maintenance services within our operational area.