Health and Safety Policy — Gardening Pimlico

This Health and Safety policy describes the practices and standards that govern Gardening Pimlico and associated garden maintenance services. It applies to all on-site activities performed by our team of gardeners, contractors and associates delivering residential and commercial landscape and garden care across our service area. The aim is to protect staff, clients, visitors and the public by reducing risks associated with outdoor horticulture and grounds maintenance.

Our policy reflects a commitment to continual improvement in safety performance. It outlines responsibilities, safe systems of work, and the controls we implement for common hazards such as manual handling, use of powered equipment, chemical handling and working near boundaries or roads. The policy supports practical measures and clear communication so that every Pimlico gardening project is delivered with safety as a priority.

Scope and responsibilities: the business owner retains overall responsibility for health and safety arrangements, while supervisors and team leaders share day-to-day duties. All employees and subcontractors must follow safe working procedures, report hazards promptly and attend training. Managers will ensure risk assessments and job briefings are prepared for each task before work begins, and that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and used.

Risk assessment and safe systems

Before starting any work the site will be surveyed and documented. Risk assessments identify hazards, evaluate potential harm and determine control measures. Controls follow the hierarchy: avoid, substitute, engineer, administrate and provide PPE. For example, noisy machinery will be substituted where possible with quieter alternatives or fitted with guards and operated with hearing protection.

We implement safe systems of work such as exclusion zones for equipment, ground-marking for underground services, and clear signage where public access is possible. Where mobile plant or ride-on mowers are used, spotters and traffic management plans reduce interaction with pedestrians and vehicles. All site-specific controls are recorded and communicated during daily briefings.

Training and competence: staff receive induction training on company safety standards and job-specific training for powered tools, chainsaws, pesticide application and ladder work. Competence is reviewed regularly and refresher training is scheduled. Trainees work alongside experienced operatives until assessed as competent. A training matrix documents required qualifications and certifications for each role and task.

Equipment, tools and maintenance

All equipment used by Gardening in Pimlico teams is subject to routine inspection and maintenance. Portable tools are visually checked before use and machines undergo scheduled servicing. Faulty equipment is taken out of service immediately and tagged until repaired. Manufacturers' instructions are followed and appropriate guards are used for cutting equipment.

Manual handling techniques are taught and encouraged to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Mechanical aids are provided for heavy or awkward loads, and team lifts are planned to minimise strain. Workers are encouraged to report any discomfort early so adjustments can be made.

Plant protection products and other hazardous substances are stored securely, labelled and used only by trained operatives. Safety data sheets (SDS) are available on-site and first aid measures for chemical exposure are included in job briefings.

Working at height and public protection: when tasks require ladders, low-level platforms or temporary access, risk assessments determine the most suitable equipment. Ladders are used only for short-duration low-risk tasks and are secured. Where there is significant risk, mobile elevated work platforms or scaffolding will be employed. Pedestrian routes are segregated and physical barriers used to maintain a safe distance between works and the public.

Emergency procedures, including first aid, fire and evacuation arrangements, are in place for every site. Trained first-aiders are appointed and first aid kits maintained. Incidents and near misses are recorded, investigated and analysed to prevent reoccurrence. Lessons learned are shared across the team to foster a strong safety culture.

Monitoring, review and communication: safety performance is monitored through regular site inspections, toolbox talks and periodic audits. Performance indicators such as incident rates, training completion and equipment inspection records inform continuous improvement. The policy is reviewed annually or when significant changes to work practices occur. All staff are encouraged to contribute suggestions for improving safety and to participate in review meetings.

Commitment to clients and staff: Gardening Pimlico is committed to delivering high-quality garden services without compromising safety. We expect everyone involved in our operations to act responsibly, follow procedures and look out for one another. Our approach balances productivity and protection to ensure that landscaping, garden maintenance, pruning and planting are carried out safely.

Key elements of this policy include:

• Clear allocation of responsibilities for health and safety
• Routine risk assessment and mitigation for every job
• Competence, training and supervision for all tasks
• Safe use and maintenance of tools and machinery
• Preparedness for emergencies and incident learning

This policy is endorsed by management and applies to all operations conducted by the team. It supports a proactive culture where safety is integral to the planning and delivery of every gardening and landscaping assignment across our service area, including routine maintenance, seasonal projects and one-off works. Regular updates and open communication ensure that the policy remains effective and relevant to the evolving needs of our workforce and the communities we serve.