Health and Safety Policy for Garden Clearance Rotherhithe

Purpose: This document sets out the health and safety policy applicable to our garden clearance and rubbish removal operations in the wider rubbish company service area. It describes our commitment to safe working practices, hazard control and the prevention of injury and damage while undertaking garden clearance, vegetation removal, and waste collection tasks. The policy applies to all staff, contractors and operatives engaged on garden clearance, site clearance and associated rubbish collection activities.

Scope: The policy covers day-to-day clearance tasks, seasonal pruning waste handling, bulky item removal, green waste segregation and transport operations within our service region. It is designed to be proportionate to the scale of works undertaken by a local rubbish company and to be applicable whether works are on small back gardens or larger communal green spaces. All activities must meet our standard safe systems of work and contribute to a consistent rubbish collection and clearance standard.

Policy Statement: We believe that the health and safety of people is paramount. Our aim is to minimize risks associated with garden clearance and the rubbish removal service area through proactive risk assessments, effective training, proper equipment and robust supervision. All employees must follow procedures and report hazards, while managers will ensure controls are in place and maintained. Regular review of controls helps maintain a safe environment for operatives and the public.

Responsibilities: Clear allocation of roles ensures accountability within the rubbish removal and garden clearance team. Responsibilities include:

• Management — ensure policy implementation, risk assessments, and provision of equipment.
• Supervisors — monitor compliance and provide on-site guidance.
• Operatives — follow safe systems, use PPE and report incidents.

Training and competence: Staff will receive practical training in manual handling, tool use, safe vehicle loading, and waste segregation. Refresher sessions will be scheduled as part of ongoing development. Competence assessments will be documented and used to match operatives to suitable jobs within the rubbish company service area to reduce risk.

Risk Assessment and Control Measures: Risk assessments are carried out for each job type and site. Typical hazards include sharp objects, heavy lifting, trip and fall risks, biological hazards (mould, animal waste), traffic movements and use of hand tools or power equipment. Controls include clear exclusion zones, traffic management plans, designated loading areas, appropriate PPE, and safe tool storage. Hazardous items are isolated and handled per procedure to limit exposure.

Personal Protective Equipment and Tools

PPE Requirements: PPE is issued according to the task: gloves rated for cut resistance, eye protection, hi-vis clothing, protective boots, and hearing protection when using noisy equipment. Chemical handling requires additional protective measures. PPE use is mandatory and monitored by supervisors to maintain a high standard across the rubbish collection area.

Equipment Maintenance: All hand tools, power tools and vehicles used for garden clearance will be checked before use. Faulty equipment is taken out of service and repaired. Regular servicing ensures that machinery and transport used for rubbish removal operate safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents.

Manual Handling and Lifting: Manual handling guidelines are provided and must be followed. Mechanical aids such as trolleys or small loaders are used whenever practicable to remove heavy waste items. Team lifts are organised where necessary and safe lifting techniques are promoted. The goal is to minimize musculoskeletal injury during garden waste clearance and bulky waste removal.

Waste Segregation and Disposal: Waste is segregated at source wherever possible into green waste, mixed general waste, recyclable materials and hazardous items. Sharp and hazardous waste are secured and labelled for specialist handling. This reduces environmental risk and ensures safe transportation within the rubbish company service area.

Traffic Management and Public Safety: When work is adjacent to access routes, pedestrian and vehicle separation is implemented. Barriers, cones and signage are used to protect the public and operatives. Loadings and vehicle movements are supervised to prevent injury to passers-by and to maintain clear access for emergency services if required.

Incident Reporting, First Aid and Monitoring

All incidents, near misses and safety concerns must be reported promptly. First aid kits are available on site and staff trained in first aid provide initial care. Incidents are investigated to identify root causes and lessons learned, and actions are taken to prevent recurrence. Health and safety performance is monitored through regular site inspections, audits and review meetings to ensure continual improvement across the garden clearance and rubbish removal services.

Emergency Preparedness: Emergency procedures are in place for fire, injury, or major spill. Staff are briefed on emergency plans and evacuation routes. Contractors and temporary staff must familiarise themselves with local arrangements prior to starting work to ensure coordinated response in the event of an emergency.

Health Considerations: Particular attention is given to allergies, heat stress, hypothermia and safe handling of biological waste encountered during clearance. Operatives are advised on hydration, rest breaks, and appropriate clothing for weather conditions. Occupational health support is available where necessary to address long-term health risks associated with manual handling and outdoor labour.

Review and Continuous Improvement: This policy is reviewed at regular intervals and after significant incidents. Feedback from operatives, changes in work types, or updates to industry best practice will prompt revisions. Our aim is to maintain a strong culture of safety and to ensure that our garden clearance work across the rubbish collection service area is carried out responsibly and without harm.

Final Statement: The senior management endorses this policy and requires all personnel to cooperate fully in its application. Compliance, proactivity and shared responsibility are essential to keep people safe and to deliver a reliable, safe garden clearance and rubbish removal service in our service area. Together we will uphold standards that protect our workforce, the public and the environment.