Health & Safety Policy — Garden Clearance Norbiton

Operatives clearing garden waste with protective equipment Garden Clearance Norbiton is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for all staff, contractors and members of the public affected by our garden rubbish removal and waste removal services. This Health and Safety Policy outlines the principles and responsibilities that govern safe operations across our rubbish company service area and during all clearance and disposal activities.

Scope and Purpose

This policy applies to every activity undertaken by our team while delivering garden clearance, rubbish clearance and related landscape waste services. The objective is to reduce risk to an acceptable level through planned controls, staff training, safe systems of work and continual monitoring. We aim to ensure compliance with statutory duties and to promote a safety-first culture throughout our service area.

Responsibilities and Roles

Supervisor discussing responsibilities with the team on site Clear allocation of responsibilities ensures accountability for health and safety. Key duties include:

Management: provide resources, maintain policies and ensure legal compliance for the rubbish clearance operation.
Supervisors: plan tasks, conduct briefings and confirm that teams follow safe working procedures for garden rubbish removal.
Operatives: follow instructions, use PPE correctly and report hazards or incidents promptly.

Staff Training and Competence

All employees receive induction and regular refresher training tailored to the demands of garden waste removal, manual handling and the use of hand tools and powered equipment. Training records are kept up to date and competency assessments are used to determine when further coaching is required. We emphasise the safe operation of vehicles used for rubbish collection and the correct segregation of materials destined for recycling or disposal.

Risk Assessment and Job Planning

Risk assessment being completed prior to garden clearance work Every site visit is preceded by a documented risk assessment. Job planning includes identification of trip hazards, access issues, overhead services, hazardous materials and environmental constraints. Control measures may include traffic management, exclusion zones, use of mechanical aids and ensuring sufficient personnel for manual handling tasks. Risk assessments are reviewed when site conditions change or new hazards are identified.

Safe Working Procedures

We maintain written procedures for the most common activities encountered in garden clearance and rubbish collection. These procedures cover:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): gloves, eye protection, hi-vis clothing, safety footwear and respiratory protection where required.
Manual handling: safe lifting techniques, use of trolleys and mechanical assistance to reduce strain injuries.
Waste handling: segregation, secure loading, containment and avoidance of unsafe stacking.

Emergency Procedures and Incident Reporting

In the event of an accident, fire or environmental release, operatives must follow established emergency procedures and notify supervisors immediately. Incidents are recorded, investigated and used to inform improvements. Near misses are treated seriously and drive corrective actions to prevent recurrence. First aid provisions and clear communication protocols are maintained on-site for all clearance activities.

Monitoring, Review and Compliance

We undertake regular site inspections, toolbox talks and periodic audits to ensure adherence to this policy. Performance indicators include incident rates, training completion and audit outcomes. Findings lead to corrective actions, updated procedures and refreshed training. The policy is reviewed at least annually or sooner in response to legislative change or significant incidents to ensure ongoing compliance and continual improvement within our rubbish company service area.

Declaration

Garden Clearance Norbiton is committed to protecting the health and safety of everyone involved in or affected by our operations. We expect every team member to actively contribute to a safe working environment by following procedures, reporting hazards and participating in training. This policy is a central part of our operational standards and supports the responsible delivery of garden rubbish removal and waste services throughout our service area.