Health & Safety Policy

1. Policy Statement

At Root & Wild Ltd, we are committed to ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of all our garden partners, clients, visitors, and members of the public who may be affected by our work. We aim to provide and maintain safe working environments and promote a strong safety culture through training, planning, and continuous improvement.

2. Responsibilities

Company Director(s):

  • Ensure that all necessary health and safety measures are in place.

  • Provide appropriate training, PPE, and equipment for all garden partners.

  • Regularly review and update health and safety procedures.

  • Investigate all incidents and near-misses promptly and thoroughly.

Gardeners (Employees & Freelancers):

  • Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others.

  • Follow all safety procedures and use PPE correctly.

  • Report hazards, injuries, or unsafe practices immediately.

  • Attend required training and toolbox talks.

3. Risk Assessments & Safe Systems of Work

  • Risk assessments will be carried out for each new site or job type.

  • Method statements or safe systems of work will be developed where appropriate (e.g. for hedge trimming, working at height, heavy lifting).

  • Hazards such as uneven ground, sharp tools, and exposure to pesticides will be identified and managed appropriately.

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All garden partners will be provided with and required to wear appropriate PPE, including:

  • Gloves

  • Eye protection

  • Ear protection (where power tools are used)

  • Sturdy footwear

  • High-visibility clothing where appropriate

5. Equipment & Tool Safety

  • All tools and equipment will be maintained in safe working condition.

  • Any damaged or faulty tools must be reported and removed from use immediately.

  • Only trained personnel may operate power tools or machinery.

6. Manual Handling

  • Garden partners will be trained in safe lifting techniques.

  • Mechanical aids (e.g. wheelbarrows, sack trucks) will be used where necessary.

  • Loads must always be assessed for weight, shape, and stability before handling.

7. First Aid & Emergencies

  • A first aid kit is carried in each company vehicle.

  • At least one garden partner on site must be first aid trained.

  • Emergency contact numbers are readily accessible and known to all team members.

  • All incidents and near misses must be recorded and reported to the Director.

8. Weather & Environmental Hazards

  • Work may be postponed in cases of severe weather (e.g. storms, heatwaves, snow/ice).

  • Sun protection and hydration are promoted during hot weather.

  • Appropriate clothing and caution are used in cold and wet conditions.

9. lone Working

  • Lone working is avoided where possible.

  • Where lone working is necessary, a check-in system will be used.

  • Gardens working alone must carry a charged mobile phone at all times.