Health and Safety Policy — Lawn Mowing Archway

Purpose: This Health and Safety policy sets out the principles and procedures for safe operation of lawn mowing Archway services and related garden maintenance tasks. It applies to all staff, contractors and subcontractors engaged in lawn care in and around the service area. The aim is to prevent injury, protect public safety and ensure compliance with good practice for grounds maintenance, including mechanical mowing, edging, and grass collection operations.

The document describes roles and responsibilities, risk assessment protocols, required personal protective equipment (PPE), safe use of tools and machinery, and procedures for dealing with hazardous situations. Staff involved in Archway lawn mowing and garden maintenance must familiarise themselves with these measures and confirm understanding during induction and routine refresher training.

Scope and Responsibilities

The policy covers routine lawn maintenance, emergency response for incidents on site, and safe handling of fuels and lubricants used in garden machinery. Key responsibilities include:

• Management — ensure adequate training, risk assessments, and maintenance schedules are in place;
• Supervisors — perform site checks, enforce PPE use and safe work methods;
• Operatives — follow safe operating procedures when performing lawn mowing in Archway and surrounding properties.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work: Before any mowing or garden service begins, a documented risk assessment must be completed for the specific location. Assessments will identify hazards such as uneven ground, slopes, hidden obstacles, public access routes, traffic, and the proximity of children or vulnerable persons. Controls will be implemented following the hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.

Training and Competence

All operatives undertaking garden mowing Archway tasks must receive training in machine operation, basic first aid, manual handling and hazardous substance awareness. Training records will be maintained and reviewed annually. Only competent, trained personnel are authorised to operate ride-on mowers, pedestrian mowers, strimmers and other powered equipment.

PPE and Protective Measures: Mandatory PPE includes sturdy footwear, high-visibility clothing, hearing protection, eye protection and gloves when required. Where hand-arm vibration is a concern, risk controls and monitoring will be applied. Appropriate use of guards and emergency stops on machinery is required at all times.

Equipment, Inspection and Maintenance

Machines and tools used for lawn care Archway must be inspected before use. A daily checklist will cover fuel and oil levels, safety guards, blade condition, tyres and brakes. Defective equipment must be taken out of service and repaired by a competent technician. Fuel storage and refuelling will follow safe practices to avoid spills and fire risks.

Traffic and Public Safety: When working in public spaces or near footpaths, operatives must implement controls to protect passersby. These measures include warning signs, cordons where feasible, and positioning of vehicles/equipment to minimise risk. Workers must maintain awareness of children and animals and stop operations if the public enters the work area unexpectedly.

Hazardous Substances and Environmental Considerations

Any use of herbicides, pesticides or other chemicals will follow manufacturer instructions and training requirements. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) must be available on-site. Spill kits are kept in vehicles and staff are trained in containment and reporting. Waste grass cuttings and green waste should be managed responsibly to avoid run-off or blockages in drains; consider composting and lawful disposal methods.

Incident Reporting and Investigation: All accidents, near-misses and incidents must be reported promptly and recorded. Investigations will identify root causes and corrective actions to prevent recurrence. The policy supports open reporting and a no-blame approach to encourage timely reporting and continuous improvement in the lawn maintenance operation.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement: The policy and risk assessments will be reviewed at least annually or following significant changes to equipment, personnel or operational methods. Routine site audits and toolbox talks will reinforce safe behaviours and identify opportunities for improvement in the Archway lawn mowing service delivery.

Commitment: Management and staff are committed to delivering safe, professional and environmentally responsible lawn maintenance. This Health and Safety policy is a living document and forms part of the company’s operating standards for garden mowing Archway assignments. All employees are required to co-operate with these arrangements and contribute to maintaining a safe working environment.