Health and Safety Policy for Hedge Trimming Lambeth Operations

This Health and Safety Policy sets out the principles and practical measures that guide our hedge trimming work across Lambeth and surrounding areas. The document applies to all staff and contractors involved in hedge trimming Lambeth and related vegetation maintenance tasks. It is designed to reduce risk, protect employees, clients and the public, and ensure that our hedge maintenance Lambeth activities are carried out safely and responsibly.

Our commitment is to provide a safe working environment through systematic risk assessment, training and ongoing supervision. We emphasise proactive hazard identification during every visit for hedge trimming in Lambeth locations and when planning recurring maintenance. Everyone on site must understand their responsibilities and the safe systems of work in place.

Risk assessments and method statements are prepared before starting any job and are reviewed for each hedgerow project, whether it is routine Lambeth hedge trimming or a larger vegetation management contract. These documents identify hazards such as falling branches, use of powered hedge trimmers, working at height, and proximity to vehicular traffic, and set out control measures to reduce likelihood and severity of incidents.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory for all operatives engaged in hedge trimming services in Lambeth. This includes, as a minimum, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, high-visibility clothing and appropriate footwear. Where chainsaws or heavier equipment are used, additional protection such as chainsaw trousers and helmets with visors will be provided. PPE is regularly inspected and replaced when worn or damaged.

All powered equipment used for garden hedge cutting and maintenance is subject to a strict inspection, maintenance and testing regime. Portable appliance checks, sharpening of blades and fuel-handling procedures are documented to prevent mechanical failure and fire risks. Only trained staff may operate powered hedge cutting tools, and machine safety guards must remain in place whilst tools are used.

Training and competency are central to our approach. Staff receive induction training that covers safe use of hand tools, powered hedge trimmers, ladder safety, manual handling and first aid basics. Ongoing refresher training, toolbox talks and supervision ensure standards are maintained on every Lambeth hedging project. Competence is recorded and reviewed annually or whenever new equipment or techniques are introduced.

Traffic and pedestrian management form part of the safety plan for hedge pruning near roads or footpaths. We implement clear signage, cones and barriers where necessary to protect the public and our crews. When working near roads, operatives follow safe systems for working adjacent to live traffic and understand responsibilities for manual handling of materials and equipment.

Emergency procedures are in place for incidents including injury, severe weather and pollution events. First aid kits are available in all vehicles, and at least one trained first-aider is present on larger jobs. In the event of an emergency our teams will secure the scene, provide immediate assistance and follow reporting procedures so incidents are logged and investigated.

Environmental protection is integrated into our operational procedures. Waste arising from hedge trimming is segregated and disposed of responsibly. Where appropriate, arisings are chipped and reused on site to reduce waste and disturbance. We take care to protect wildlife habitats and will stop work if protected species are discovered during routine Lambeth hedge maintenance works.

Safe working at height policies apply when ladders or platforms are required to trim tall hedges. Ladders are only used where risk assessments determine them to be suitable and where safe access and secure footing are available. For more complex jobs we use specialist access equipment with fall protection systems, operated by trained personnel.

Lone working controls and communication protocols are in place for operatives who may be working without direct supervision. Job check-ins, route plans and mobile communication tools help ensure that lone workers are monitored and supported. Supervisors must be informed of any deviations from planned work or unexpected hazards encountered on site.

Monitoring, review and continuous improvement underpin our health and safety approach. Accidents, near-misses and safety observations are recorded, reviewed and acted upon. Regular audits and safety meetings help ensure our hedge trimming Lambeth and landscaping operations remain aligned with best practice and evolving industry standards. Safety is a shared responsibility, and we expect all team members to contribute to a culture of safe working.