Health and Safety Policy for Tree Surgeons Shoreditch

This health and safety policy sets out the standards expected for all tree surgeons in Shoreditch and for every person involved in arboricultural work. Our aim is to create a working environment where risks are identified early, controls are applied consistently, and everyone understands their responsibilities. Tree work often involves chainsaws, climbing, heavy lifting, vehicles, falling branches, and proximity to buildings or public areas, so careful planning is essential.

We are committed to maintaining a safe and well-managed operation through clear procedures, proper supervision, and regular review. Safety is not treated as a separate task; it is built into every stage of work, from site assessment to completion. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, temporary workers, and anyone supporting tree surgery services.

All arborists are expected to act responsibly, follow instructions, and stop work if conditions become unsafe. A strong safety culture depends on communication, competence, and vigilance. By following this policy, our Shoreditch tree surgeons help protect staff, clients, the public, and property.

Policy Principles

Before any task begins, a suitable and sufficient risk assessment must be completed. This includes checking tree condition, weather, access routes, overhead hazards, nearby traffic, ground stability, and the presence of pedestrians or neighbouring properties. Where needed, a method statement must explain how the work will be carried out safely and what equipment will be used.

Only trained and competent personnel may operate machinery, climb trees, rig branches, or perform aerial rescue duties. Tree surgeons must hold the appropriate knowledge for the work assigned to them, and supervisors must ensure that no one is asked to work beyond their capability. Competence is maintained through instruction, refresher training, and practical oversight.

Equipment must be selected for the job, checked before use, and maintained in good working condition. This includes helmets, eye and ear protection, chainsaw trousers, gloves, harnesses, ropes, karabiners, lowering devices, and cutting tools. Defective items must be removed from service immediately. Correct personal protective equipment is mandatory whenever exposure to risk requires it.

Safe Working Practices

Tree work areas must be controlled to reduce the risk of injury to workers and the public. Barriers, signage, and where necessary banksmen or ground staff should be used to keep people away from danger zones. When working near roads, footpaths, or occupied premises, additional precautions may be required to prevent unauthorised access and to manage vehicle movement.

Chainsaw use is governed by strict safe systems of work. Operators must maintain secure footing, use both hands where possible, and remain alert to kickback, branch movement, and potential entanglement. Cutting techniques must be appropriate to the task, and saws must never be used while a worker is fatigued, distracted, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Climbing and aerial operations require particular care. Ropes, anchor points, and harness systems must be checked before ascent, and a rescue plan must be in place before climbing begins. Climbers should not work alone, and ground staff must remain ready to assist. Arboricultural operations involving dismantling or rigging should only proceed when the team is confident that the load path, drop zone, and escape routes are fully controlled.

Health, Welfare, and Environmental Considerations

We recognise that health risks can be as serious as immediate physical hazards. Exposure to noise, vibration, dust, exhaust fumes, manual handling strain, and adverse weather must be considered throughout the day. Regular breaks, hydration, and suitable clothing are important, especially during cold, wet, or hot conditions.

Manual handling should be reduced wherever possible by using mechanical aids, breaking loads into manageable sections, and planning lifts in advance. Team members should avoid twisting, overreaching, or carrying awkward timber unnecessarily. Good housekeeping is also essential: tools, brash, and waste must be positioned so they do not create trip hazards or obstruct emergency access.

Environmental protection is part of safe tree surgery. Care must be taken to prevent damage to protected habitats, neighbouring gardens, underground services, and surfaces beneath work areas. Waste timber and green material should be managed responsibly, and spill prevention measures must be used where fuel, oil, or hydraulic fluids are present.

Emergency Arrangements and Reporting

Emergency preparedness is a key part of this policy. Every site must have a clear plan for dealing with incidents such as falls, chainsaw injuries, equipment failure, severe weather, fire, or contact with power lines. First aid provisions must be available and suitable for the task, and at least one competent person should be present where risk levels require it.

In the event of an accident or near miss, work must stop if necessary and the situation assessed immediately. Relevant details should be recorded, reported, and reviewed so that learning can be shared and future prevention measures improved. Open reporting is encouraged because it helps strengthen safety across all tree surgery activities.

Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that unsafe situations are addressed promptly and that workers feel able to raise concerns without hesitation. Safety reviews should be carried out regularly to confirm that procedures remain effective, equipment remains suitable, and training needs are identified before problems arise.

Responsibilities and Continuous Improvement

Management is responsible for providing the resources, training, and oversight required to implement this policy. Workers are responsible for following instructions, using equipment correctly, and reporting hazards or defects promptly. Everyone has a role in keeping Shoreditch tree surgeons safe and maintaining professional standards at all times.

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated when work methods, equipment, or risk levels change. We aim for continuous improvement through monitoring, consultation, and practical learning from day-to-day operations. By keeping health and safety at the centre of tree work, we protect people, property, and the quality of every job completed.

Safe practice is not optional; it is the foundation of reliable and responsible arboriculture. Through planning, competence, and teamwork, our tree surgeons Shoreditch can carry out their work effectively while reducing risk and promoting a safer working environment for everyone involved.