Health and Safety Policy for Gardeners Brent Cross
Introduction: This policy sets out the approach that our gardening team takes to protect staff, clients and the public while delivering high-quality garden care. It applies to all employees and contractors engaged in garden maintenance, landscape installation and horticultural services offered by the company as Brent Cross gardeners.Our objective is to maintain a safe working environment through effective risk management, training and supervision. Managers and crew leaders are accountable for ensuring safe systems of work are in place and that every gardener in Brent Cross understands their responsibilities. We promote a culture where safety is integral to every task, from pruning to hard landscaping.
Risk assessment and planning
All tasks require a pre-work risk assessment that identifies hazards and control measures. Assessments cover manual handling, use of powered equipment, working at height on ladders, exposure to chemicals and interactions with members of the public. Plans include emergency arrangements and specific steps to reduce risk during routine Brent Cross gardening services.Before beginning work, teams conduct site briefings and pre-start checks. Equipment inspections and tool maintenance records are kept up to date. Safe plant operation and methodical work sequencing help prevent accidents, while supervisors ensure workers are competent for assigned duties and appropriately supervised during complex tasks.
PPE is mandatory where risk assessments indicate need. Typical items include safety boots, gloves, eye and ear protection, hi-vis clothing and suitable respiratory protection. The company supplies PPE, and staff are trained in its selection, correct use and maintenance. PPE compliance is monitored during routine checks.
Training is central to safe operations. Induction training covers company policies, emergency procedures and basic hazard recognition. Job-specific training includes machinery operation, manual handling techniques and safe chemical handling. Refresher training is scheduled regularly to keep the skills of Brent Cross garden maintenance teams current and effective.
We maintain clear written procedures for higher-risk tasks and employ a permit-to-work system where appropriate, such as for chainsaw use or confined space work. Only qualified staff operate ride-on mowers, strimmers and other powered equipment. Records of qualifications and training are kept and reviewed during supervisory inspections.
Manual handling procedures emphasise the use of mechanical aids and team lifts for heavy items such as paving slabs, large shrubs and compost bags. Staff are instructed on correct lifting posture and planning lifts to remove unnecessary strain. First aid provision and trained personnel are available during normal operating hours to respond promptly to injuries.
Chemical safety and storage procedures are enforced to minimise exposure. Approved products are stored securely in labelled containers in a ventilated area. Operators using fertilisers, herbicides or pesticides follow safe mixing and application protocols and use appropriate PPE. Disposal of chemical waste is carried out responsibly to protect people and the environment.
When working near roads, footpaths or communal areas, traffic management measures are implemented. Temporary signage, cones, barriers and cordons help alert the public to ongoing work. Staff wear hi-vis clothing and follow procedures to ensure safe access for pedestrians and vehicles, reducing risk during landscaping or hedge-trimming activities.
Tool and equipment management reduces risk of injury and damage. Secure storage prevents unauthorised access to sharp tools, while routine maintenance plans keep machines in safe working order. Battery-powered tools are charged and stored safely, and petrol equipment is handled with fuel safety procedures to prevent spills and fire hazards.
Contractor control is important on larger sites: subcontractors must provide method statements and evidence of competence. The company coordinates shared-site work to manage overlapping risks and schedules, ensuring that external crews meet the same health and safety standards upheld by our Brent Cross gardening teams.
Emergency preparedness includes incident reporting, access to first-aid resources and clear communication plans. All incidents and near misses are recorded and investigated to identify improvements. This approach supports continuous improvement and reduces the likelihood of repeat events across all garden and grounds services.
Monitoring and review: Regular audits, safety observations and toolbox talks assess implementation of this policy. Performance indicators include training completion, inspection records, incident rates and corrective actions. Management reviews the policy periodically and adjusts procedures as services, equipment or operational contexts change.
Responsibilities: Senior management provide leadership, resources and oversight to maintain high safety standards. Supervisors enforce safe working practices, conduct checks and support staff training. Individual workers are expected to follow procedures, report hazards and contribute to a safe working culture across all Brent Cross gardening services.
Communication and continual improvement
The policy promotes open communication about safety. Staff are encouraged to raise concerns and suggest improvements during briefings and through designated reporting channels. Regular review meetings ensure feedback informs policy updates and operational changes.The following practical measures form part of routine work:
- Daily equipment and vehicle checks
- Scheduled maintenance and servicing
- Documented task risk assessments
- Regular refresher training
Policy acceptance: This health and safety policy is endorsed by management and applies to all employees and contractors. Adherence to the policy helps ensure that gardening, landscaping and maintenance services are delivered safely, professionally and sustainably without compromising quality or wellbeing.
