Health and Safety Policy — Hedge Trimming Hayes

This Health and Safety Policy sets out the commitment of Hedge Trimming Hayes to maintain safe working practices for all hedge maintenance, hedge cutting and gardening operations across our service area. It applies to employees, sub-contractors and anyone working on behalf of the company during hedge trimming in Hayes, garden clearance and associated landscaping activities. The purpose of this policy is to reduce risk, prevent injury and protect property while delivering high-quality hedge trimming services.

The policy is based on a proactive approach to safety, emphasising planning, training and continuous improvement. Key responsibilities are assigned at all levels: senior management will provide leadership and resources; supervisors will ensure safe systems of work are followed; operatives will carry out tasks competently and report hazards. Everyone is required to co-operate, attend safety briefings and complete necessary safety checks before work commences.

Before any job starts a formal risk assessment will be carried out for hedge trimming projects, whether routine maintenance or more complex hedge removal. Assessments identify hazards such as working at height, use of powered hedge trimmers, chainsaws for thicker growth, proximity to roads and overhead cables, and uneven ground. Controls include safe access systems, use of appropriate machinery, and clear exclusion zones to protect the public and staff during Hayes hedge trimming operations.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory for all operatives. This includes protective gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, high-visibility clothing and chainsaw trousers where relevant. Equipment must be inspected daily and maintained according to manufacturer guidance. All powered tools and machinery used for hedge maintenance Hayes projects are subject to inspection and service schedules to ensure fitness for purpose and compliance with safety standards.

Safe working procedures are documented and form part of job briefings for hedge cutting Hayes jobs. These procedures cover work at height (including ladders and platforms), safe use of hand tools, isolation of power tools, and vehicle loading/unloading. Supervisors conduct toolbox talks that reiterate key points such as exclusion zone requirements, correct lifting techniques and the importance of keeping the work area tidy to avoid slips, trips and falls.

Controls for roadside and estate work include traffic management plans, use of signing and barriers, and coordination with property owners where access or parking may be affected. Environmental protection is also integral; arisings are managed to minimise damage to habitats and to control green waste in line with best practice. We encourage recycling and proper disposal of cuttings to reduce fire risk and site clutter.

Contractor and subcontractor selection is based on demonstrated competence, appropriate insurance and adherence to this health and safety policy. All contractors engaged for local hedge maintenance work must provide risk assessments, method statements and evidence of relevant training. Our company conducts periodic audits and site inspections to ensure standards are maintained and that external teams comply with company health and safety expectations.

Accident reporting and emergency procedures are clearly established. Any incident, however minor, must be reported promptly and investigated to identify root causes and preventative measures. First aid provisions are in place for all sites, and operatives are informed of nearest medical facilities and emergency contact procedures. Records of incidents and near-misses are retained and reviewed to inform training and operational changes.

Monitoring, review and continuous improvement are central to Hedge Trimming Hayes' approach. The policy is reviewed annually or after any significant incident or change in work practices. Training is ongoing and tailored to the varied services we provide — from standard hedge shaping to complex pruning and removal tasks in gardens and small estates. Our commitment is to maintain a safe work environment and to meet recognised standards for garden maintenance and hedge care across our service locations.