Health and Safety Policy — Gardeners Pinner

Gardeners Pinner is committed to providing a safe working environment for employees, contractors and the public in every activity we undertake. This health and safety policy sets out the standards, responsibilities and procedures that underpin our work across the service area. Our objective as a Pinner gardening company is to minimise risk through planning, training and continuous improvement while delivering professional gardening and grounds maintenance services.

Scope and Objectives

This policy applies to all operations carried out by Gardeners Pinner and to staff, temporary workers, subcontractors and any visitors to sites where gardening, landscaping or grounds care is performed. The key objectives are to: ensure legal and best-practice compliance, eliminate or reduce hazards, protect health, reduce incidents and create a safe culture. We prioritise predictable controls for common tasks such as hedge trimming, lawn care, tree pruning and use of handheld and powered equipment.

Policy Principles

Our principles rely on risk-based decision making, clear communication and personal accountability. We will carry out thorough risk assessments for new and recurring tasks, implement proportionate controls, provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain safe systems of work. Prevention is the central focus, not reaction; therefore planning and supervision are emphasised at every job.

Roles and Responsibilities

The responsibilities below apply across the Pinner gardeners team and to anyone representing the company on site. Key responsibilities include:

• Management — develop and review policy, allocate resources, and ensure competence and training.
• Supervisors — carry out site inductions, monitor safe working, and ensure risk assessments are followed.
• Operatives — follow instructions, report hazards and incidents, use PPE and maintain equipment.
• Visitors and Clients — cooperate with safety instructions while on site.

Gardeners in Pinner are trained to recognise hazards and to take sensible action to reduce risk. We encourage reporting of near misses and potential problems so we can address issues before harm occurs.

Risk Assessment and Training

Risk assessments are documented for routine tasks and for unique or higher-risk jobs. Training is provided in equipment operation, manual handling, working at height, pesticide use where necessary, and first aid awareness. We maintain competency records and review training needs regularly. All staff must demonstrate understanding of safe systems of work before operating machinery or handling hazardous substances. Ongoing coaching and toolbox talks reinforce safe behaviour and adapt procedures to changing site conditions.

Equipment, Machinery and Tools

Equipment is inspected daily and maintained to manufacturer standards. This includes petrol and electric mowers, chainsaws, hedge cutters and powered trimmers. Operators must use appropriate guards and follow safe start-up/shutdown procedures. Lock-off and isolation procedures are used where required. Faulty equipment is taken out of service and reported immediately. Local storage and charging arrangements are designed to prevent slips, trips and fire risks.

Hazardous Substances and Waste

When handling fertilisers, herbicides or other chemicals we adopt a precautionary approach. Substances are used in accordance with labels and COSHH-style assessments are kept on file. Protective clothing and gloves are supplied and used. Waste materials and green waste are segregated, stored safely and disposed of using authorised methods to avoid environmental harm and public nuisance. Spill kits and containment measures are available where required.

Emergency Procedures and Incident Reporting

All staff are briefed on emergency arrangements including first aid provision, evacuation routes and contact steps for emergency services. Incidents and accidents are recorded, investigated and analysed to identify root causes and prevent recurrence. We use corrective actions and monitor their effectiveness. Reporting is encouraged and non-punitive, and lessons learned are shared across the team to improve safety performance.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

We conduct regular site inspections, audit key processes and review incidents to ensure the policy is effective. Performance indicators include training completion, inspection findings, near-miss reports and corrective action closure rates. This policy is reviewed at least annually and updated following changes in operations, new equipment or significant incidents. As a responsible provider of gardening services, Gardeners Pinner aims to learn and adapt to maintain high safety standards.

To support a safe culture we promote open communication, clear supervision and shared responsibility. Employees are encouraged to identify hazards, suggest improvements and participate in safety discussions. Managers provide visible leadership so that health and safety are integrated into planning, job briefings and day-to-day work.

In conclusion, this health and safety policy ensures that Pinner gardeners and the wider team work responsibly, protect the public and maintain professional standards whilst delivering landscaping and garden maintenance services. The policy is accessible to all staff and will be enforced consistently to safeguard people and property.