Hedge Trimming Millbank: Health & Safety Policy

Hedge Trimming Millbank operates a clear and practical health and safety policy designed to protect staff, clients and the public while delivering professional hedge cutting in Millbank and nearby service areas. This policy sets out our commitment to safe working practices, hazard control, training and continuous improvement. It applies to all operatives, supervisors and subcontractors engaged in hedge maintenance and related garden work.

Our objective is to manage risk proportionately for each job. We will assess each task for known hazards such as working at height, use of handheld and powered tools, contact with utility services and exposure to dust or plant debris. Risk assessments will be recorded and communicated to the team before work starts, and control measures will be put in place that reflect the specific nature of Millbank hedging services.

All employees must follow our safe systems of work. This includes using the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) such as eye protection, gloves, hearing protection and sturdy footwear when performing Millbank hedge trimming, and ensuring equipment is inspected before use. We encourage a culture where hazards are reported and near-misses are logged to improve standards.

Responsibilities and Safe Working Practices

Managers are responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring resources are available for safe operations. Operatives are required to work safely and to the standards set out in our job-specific method statements. When providing hedging services in Millbank and surrounding neighbourhoods, the team will set up suitable exclusion zones, use signage or barriers where required and coordinate with site occupants to minimise public exposure to work activities.

Before any hedge cutting or trimming, a competent person will carry out a site-specific inspection. This inspection identifies traffic, pedestrians, overhead cables, access constraints and protected plants. Where tree or heritage issues arise, work will be adapted to avoid damage. The goal is to provide efficient maintenance while protecting biodiversity and private property.

We use an explicit toolbox talk system for each shift so that safety briefings cover the day’s tasks, emergency procedures and any changes to the working environment. All team members must demonstrate knowledge of the relevant safe operating procedures before commencing: chain and pole saw handling, hedge trimmer techniques, ladder safety and use of mobile elevated work platforms where necessary.

Training, Equipment and Maintenance

Training is mandatory for all staff and includes practical, on-site coaching and periodic refreshers. Certification or documented competency is required for powered tool operation and any specialist equipment. New employees are paired with experienced operatives until assessed as competent.

Equipment is maintained to manufacturer standards and inspected daily. Faulty tools are removed from service and reported. We maintain a planned inspection and maintenance log to ensure hedge trimmers, saws and PPE remain in safe condition. Vehicles and trailers used to transport equipment are checked for secure stowage and correct loading.

Emergency procedures are in place for injury, fire or environmental incidents. First aid kits are available at every work site, and personnel with first aid qualifications are present during operations. In the event of a serious incident, we will follow incident reporting and investigation procedures to learn and prevent recurrence.

We maintain an active approach to waste management and environmental protection. Cuttings are removed or mulched responsibly, and we avoid contamination of drains or watercourses. When working near sensitive areas, additional containment measures will be used. Our hedging teams are trained to recognise and protect wildlife habitats and to work in ways that reduce disturbance.

To support consistent performance we monitor safety through routine site inspections, performance reviews and scheduled audits. Millbank hedging services will be regularly evaluated to ensure compliance with this policy and to integrate improvements based on operational feedback and industry best practice.

Our prevention strategy includes a focus on wellbeing and fatigue management: shift patterns, rest breaks and hydration are managed to reduce risk. Seasonal hazards such as slippery surfaces in wet weather or heat stress in warm conditions are addressed in planning and onsite controls.

Key elements of our operational safety framework include:

• Pre-job risk assessment and documented method statements
• Mandatory PPE and equipment inspections
• Competency-based training and supervision
• Site controls to protect the public and property
• Emergency preparedness and incident reporting

We aim for transparent communication with clients and stakeholders about safety expectations and any temporary measures needed while work is carried out. When providing hedge maintenance around Millbank properties, the team will explain the identified risks and controls so everyone on site understands their role in keeping the work area safe.

Hedge maintenance in Millbank is delivered with a commitment to quality and safety. This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as required by changes in equipment, methods or operational scope. By following the procedures set out here, we protect people, property and the environment while delivering professional hedging services.