Health and Safety Policy for Gardeners Feltham
This Health and Safety Policy sets out the commitment of Gardeners Feltham and associated gardening teams to maintain safe working conditions for staff, clients and the public. The purpose of this policy is to establish clear responsibilities, outline risk control measures, and promote a culture where safety and environmental protection are integral to everyday garden maintenance and landscaping operations.
The policy applies to all operatives, contractors and supervisors engaged by the gardening company in the Feltham service area and nearby locations where practical. It covers routine tasks such as lawn care, hedge trimming, planting, waste handling, and machinery operation, as well as occasional specialist activities. Our aim is to reduce workplace incidents through proactive management, training, and continuous improvement.
Statement of intent: Gardeners Feltham will provide and maintain safe plant, equipment and systems of work, as far as reasonably practicable. We will ensure that adequate resources are provided to implement the policy fully, and that all staff receive relevant information, instruction, training and supervision to carry out their duties safely. This commitment extends to contractors and sub‑contractors working under our direction.
Responsibilities and Organisation
Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with senior management of the gardening service. Day‑to‑day responsibility for implementation lies with site supervisors and team leaders. Every employee has a duty to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions while on duty. Reporting hazards promptly is a shared duty to prevent harm.
The policy emphasises that supervisors must ensure operatives are competent for assigned tasks. Staff will be provided with suitable training, including induction, tool and machinery training, manual handling, and awareness of hazardous substances. Training records will be maintained and reviewed periodically.
Risk assessment and control measures
All work activities will be subject to risk assessment prior to commencement. Control measures follow the hierarchy of risk reduction: eliminate hazards where possible, substitute with less hazardous options, use engineering controls, implement safe systems of work, and provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Risk assessments will be documented and communicated to the team.PPE, tools and machinery: Operatives must wear appropriate PPE for the task, including high‑visibility clothing, gloves, eye protection, boots and hearing protection where necessary. Power tools and garden machinery must be used in accordance with manufacturers' instructions, inspected daily, and maintained to a safe standard. Defective equipment will be taken out of service immediately.
Manual handling guidance is provided to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury. Team members should seek assistance for heavy or awkward loads and use mechanical aids where available. Lifting techniques and safe posture are reinforced through training sessions and toolbox talks.
Control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH): Where chemical products such as herbicides, pesticides, or fuel are used, COSHH assessments will be completed, and products will be stored and handled safely. Only authorised personnel will apply chemicals, and records of use will be kept in line with best practice.
Site safety and public protection: Work sites must be cordoned off or clearly signposted to protect members of the public. Traffic management measures are implemented on roadside or driveway jobs to minimise risk from vehicles. Where necessary, two‑person working or spotters will be used to manage complex or hazardous tasks.
First aid arrangements are in place. Designated first aiders will be available on-site or on-call, and first aid kits will be maintained. All incidents, including near misses, must be reported and investigated to identify root causes and prevent recurrence. Formal incident records support continuous improvement.
Monitoring, review and continuous improvement: This policy will be reviewed at least annually, or following significant changes to operations, legislation, or after a serious incident. Performance will be monitored through site inspections, audits and regular safety meetings. Feedback from operatives will be encouraged to strengthen the safety culture across the gardening workforce.
Environmental considerations are embedded within our health and safety approach. Waste materials will be segregated and disposed of responsibly, and fuel and chemical spill prevention measures are in place. Landscaping choices and methods will favour sustainable practices where practical, balancing client expectations with environmental stewardship.
Compliance with this policy and with applicable regulations is mandatory for everyone at Gardeners Feltham and affiliated teams. Non‑compliance may result in disciplinary action and will be addressed promptly to maintain a safe working environment for all.
Key responsibilities at a glance:
- Senior management: Policy oversight, resource allocation and review.
- Supervisors and team leaders: Implement controls, supervise staff, and maintain records.
- Operatives: Follow safe systems of work, wear PPE, report hazards and incidents.
