Health and Safety Policy for Tree Surgeons Ilford

Our health and safety policy sets out how tree surgeons in Ilford work to protect staff, clients, the public, and property during all arboricultural operations. Tree surgery is a high-risk profession that involves working at height, handling heavy timber, using sharp cutting equipment, and operating in changing outdoor conditions. For that reason, every task must be planned carefully, supervised appropriately, and completed with a strong focus on hazard control.

The aim of this policy is to establish clear standards for safe working practices across all aspects of tree care. These standards apply to pruning, crown reduction, felling, stump removal, aerial work, site clearance, and emergency call-outs. We believe that safety is not a separate part of the job; it is built into every stage of the work, from the first inspection to the final tidy-up.

All personnel are expected to follow this policy without exception. Good communication, correct use of equipment, and professional judgement are essential for preventing incidents. By maintaining a disciplined approach, arborists can carry out complex tasks efficiently while reducing the risk of injury, damage, and disruption.

Our Safety Principles

The core principle of our tree surgery safety policy is simple: no job should proceed unless the risks have been assessed and suitable controls are in place. Every site is different, and each tree presents its own challenges due to size, species, condition, access, lean, decay, proximity to buildings, and overhead hazards. A thorough assessment helps identify the safest method of work and the right equipment for the task.

We require all tree surgery teams to use safe systems of work, including exclusion zones, appropriate signage, and controlled lowering techniques where needed. Where the public may be exposed to risk, work must be arranged so that access is restricted and communication is maintained throughout the operation. Temporary changes to the work plan may be made when weather, ground conditions, or tree stability create additional hazards.

Every tree surgeon must remain alert to the changing conditions that are common in outdoor work. Wind, rain, poor visibility, unstable soil, and hidden defects in timber can all affect safety. The team leader is responsible for ensuring that the chosen method remains suitable and that work pauses immediately if conditions become unsafe.

Training, Competence and Supervision

Only trained and competent personnel may undertake tree surgery operations. This includes chainsaw use, climbing, aerial rescue awareness, rigging, first aid preparedness, and the correct handling of personal protective equipment. Competence must be maintained through regular instruction, supervision, and refresher training where required. No worker should be asked to perform a task that exceeds their skills or authorisation.

Supervision is particularly important on complex sites or when new operatives are being inducted. A competent supervisor will check that the method statement is understood, that the correct equipment is available, and that everyone knows their role. Tree surgeons in Ilford must also be confident in recognising when additional expertise is required, such as during operations involving diseased trees, restricted access, or nearby utilities.

We expect a culture of open reporting so that near misses, defects, and unsafe conditions can be identified early. This helps prevent recurrence and supports continuous improvement. By learning from small issues before they become serious, our arboricultural work remains both effective and responsible.

Equipment, PPE and Worksite Controls

All equipment must be suitable for the task, properly maintained, and checked before use. Chainsaws, climbing gear, lowering devices, rigging ropes, harnesses, and cutting tools must be inspected regularly and withdrawn from service if damaged or defective. Records of maintenance and inspection should be kept in line with company procedures.

Personal protective equipment is mandatory where the risk assessment requires it. This may include helmets, face and eye protection, ear defenders, gloves, chainsaw protective trousers, and safety boots. PPE is the last line of defence, not the first, so it must be used alongside safe working methods rather than in place of them. Tree surgeons must wear PPE correctly and ensure it remains in good condition.

Worksite controls are equally important. A clearly defined exclusion zone should be established around the work area, and communication must be maintained between ground staff and aerial workers. Where necessary, traffic management, barrier systems, or additional spotters should be used. The safe movement of timber and the positioning of vehicles should always be planned to avoid crush injuries and impact hazards.

Environmental and Emergency Considerations

Tree surgery can create environmental risks as well as physical ones. Care should be taken to minimise disturbance to surrounding vegetation, structures, wildlife habitats, and adjacent land uses. Waste timber, brash, and cut material must be handled safely and removed in a controlled manner to keep the site orderly and reduce trip hazards. Noise and dust should also be managed where possible.

Emergency preparedness is a central part of this policy. Every team must know the emergency arrangements for injury, equipment failure, fire, and aerial rescue situations. First aid supplies should be available on site, and at least one competent person should be present where required by the risk level of the work. In the event of an incident, work must stop, the area made safe, and the correct reporting procedure followed immediately.

All arborists are expected to act responsibly, use sound judgement, and protect both themselves and others from avoidable harm. Safety is part of professional pride, and no deadline or routine task is more important than carrying out the job without unnecessary risk.

Responsibilities and Review

The company management is responsible for implementing this policy, providing suitable resources, and ensuring that safe systems of work are available to all employees. Team leaders must enforce the policy on site, and every worker must cooperate fully by following instructions, using equipment correctly, and reporting hazards promptly. Where subcontractors are used, they must meet the same safety expectations.

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective, practical, and aligned with current best practice in tree care. Updates may be made after incidents, equipment changes, operational reviews, or feedback from safety inspections. Our goal is to maintain a working environment where tree surgery is carried out with care, professionalism, and full respect for health and safety.