Gardener Gunnersbury Health and Safety Policy

Gardener Gunnersbury is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for employees, clients, and members of the public across our service area. This health and safety policy sets out our approach to risk management, safe systems of work, and the responsibilities of all staff engaged in gardening and grounds maintenance. We prioritise practical measures that reduce harm while enabling high-quality horticultural services.

All employees, including visiting contractors and temporary staff, must understand that safety is a shared responsibility. Managers and supervisors will ensure staff receive appropriate induction, on-the-job training, and refresher instruction relevant to tasks such as tree work, hedge trimming, mowing, waste handling, and the use of powered tools. Competence is verified before assigning lone or high-risk duties.

Risk assessments are carried out for all recurring activities and for one-off jobs that present unusual hazards. Assessments identify hazards, evaluate risks, and specify control measures. Controls include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe tool selection and maintenance, and environmental precautions to protect both workers and clients' property. Records of assessments and any safe working procedures are kept centrally and reviewed periodically.

Our policy covers the safe handling, storage, and application of chemicals used for pest and weed control. Only trained personnel may apply herbicides, pesticides, and fertilisers, and they must follow manufacturer instructions and safety data sheets. Minimising chemical use and choosing less hazardous alternatives is encouraged as part of an integrated approach to landscape management.

Equipment, Vehicles and Maintenance

Equipment used by the gardening company Gunnersbury is inspected before use, maintained to a safe condition, and serviced in line with manufacturers' guidance. This includes chainsaws, brushcutters, lawnmowers, shredders, trailers, and small utility vehicles. Faulty equipment is taken out of service and tagged until repaired. Fuel and battery charging are conducted in ventilated, secure areas with spill kits and fire extinguishers available.

Safe Work Practices

Work planning considers access, traffic management, and public safety. When working near roads, pathways or properties we establish cordons, signage, and, where necessary, traffic control. Staff use appropriate PPE such as eye protection, hearing protection, hi-vis clothing, gloves and steel-toe boots. Manual handling training and mechanical aids are used to reduce strain injuries when moving heavy pots, soil bags, and paving materials.

Incident reporting and emergency response are integral to our safety culture. All incidents, near misses, and hazardous observations are reported promptly so corrective actions can be taken. First-aid kits are provided in vehicles and on-site; trained first-aiders are identified. Emergency plans include procedures for severe weather, allergic reactions, and serious injury while working on remote sites within our service area.

We promote wellbeing through regular toolbox talks, seasonal safety briefings, and supervision focused on fatigue management and safe working hours. Contractors and sub-contractors engaged by Gardener Gunnersbury are required to meet the same standards and demonstrate their competence and insurance before starting work. Communication between crews and with clients is emphasised to maintain situational awareness.

Review and continual improvement form the final part of the policy. Performance is monitored through audits, incident analysis, and feedback from staff safety representatives. Policies and procedures are updated to reflect changes in equipment, techniques, or risks encountered across our garden maintenance, landscaping, and horticultural services. This ensures Gardener Gunnersbury remains proactive in protecting people and property while delivering professional gardening services.