Health and Safety Policy for Tree Surgeons Willesden

This health and safety policy sets out the principles and working practices expected of tree surgeons and all personnel involved in arboricultural operations. It applies to site assessments, pruning, dismantling, stump work, waste handling, and all related activities. Our aim is to reduce risk, protect workers and the public, and maintain a safe, controlled working environment at all times.

Tree surgery involves working at height, using sharp cutting equipment, operating power tools, and managing heavy or unstable timber. For that reason, tree surgery safety must be planned into every job rather than treated as a final check. Every task is carried out under the principle that hazards should be identified early, controlled effectively, and reviewed continuously throughout the work.

We require all team members to follow safe systems of work, use equipment correctly, and report hazards immediately. No one is expected to begin work unless they are competent, fit for duty, and equipped with suitable personal protective equipment. This policy also applies to subcontractors and any temporary workers operating under the direction of the site supervisor.

Before any operation begins, a site-specific risk assessment is completed. This includes checking access routes, ground conditions, overhead hazards, nearby structures, traffic exposure, wildlife concerns, and the condition of the tree itself. Particular attention is given to decay, deadwood, hanging branches, stem instability, and the presence of utilities or hidden obstacles. Where necessary, the work area is adjusted or the task postponed until controls are in place.

Method statements are used to set out the sequence of work and the control measures required for each stage. These may include barrier placement, exclusion zones, rigging arrangements, climbing procedures, lowering techniques, and emergency arrangements. Arborist safety depends on everyone understanding the plan before cutting begins, especially during complex dismantling or the removal of large sections of timber.

All cutting equipment, climbing gear, ropes, harnesses, and lowering devices are inspected before use and maintained in accordance with manufacturer instructions. Defective equipment is removed from service immediately. Staff are expected to use tools only for their intended purpose and to keep them clean, secure, and stored safely when not in use.

Personal protective equipment is mandatory where the task requires it. This may include helmets, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw trousers, protective boots, and hi-vis clothing. PPE is selected according to the nature of the task and the findings of the risk assessment. It is the responsibility of each worker to wear issued equipment correctly and report wear, damage, or poor fit without delay.

Working at height is controlled through proper training, suitable anchor selection, secure climbing systems, and ongoing supervision. Climbers must not work alone, and ground staff must remain alert to the movement of branches, tools, ropes, and falling debris. Where a safer alternative exists, such as use of elevated access equipment or ground-based methods, that option is considered first.

Chainsaws and other powered tools are operated only by trained and authorised personnel. Safe starting positions, controlled cutting techniques, and stable working stances are required at all times. Refuelling takes place away from ignition sources, and equipment is switched off before adjustments, movement, or handover. The use of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that may impair judgement is strictly prohibited.

Public safety is a core concern during all arborist operations. Work zones are clearly marked and controlled to keep unauthorised persons away from danger areas. When operations take place near roads, paths, or occupied properties, extra precautions are introduced to prevent falling material, access by pedestrians, or interference with the work. Clear communication is maintained between climbers, ground crew, and supervisors at all times.

Emergency planning is built into every job. Teams are briefed on rescue procedures, first aid arrangements, and how to summon assistance if a serious incident occurs. At least one trained first aider is available where required, and rescue equipment is kept ready for use. Incident reporting is mandatory, including near misses, equipment failures, injuries, and any circumstance that could have led to harm.

Weather conditions are monitored because wind, rain, lightning, frost, and poor visibility can create unacceptable risk. Work may be delayed, paused, or stopped if conditions threaten safe performance. The same applies when fatigue, illness, or unexpected site changes reduce the margin of safety. The priority is always to avoid rushing and to ensure that every task is completed under safe conditions.

Waste timber, brushwood, and arisings are handled in a controlled manner to avoid slips, trips, strains, and contact injuries. Material is stacked safely, lowered in a planned way, or removed using appropriate mechanical assistance. Good housekeeping is expected throughout the site, with tools stored correctly and routes kept as clear as the working environment allows.

Training and supervision underpin this policy. All personnel receive instruction relevant to their duties, including climbing, rigging, chainsaw use, manual handling, and emergency response. Competence is reviewed regularly, and refresher training is provided when work methods, equipment, or regulations change. Supervisors are responsible for checking compliance and stopping any task that presents unacceptable risk.

This policy is reviewed periodically to ensure it remains effective, practical, and aligned with current best practice. Improvements may be made following audits, incident reviews, changes in equipment, or updates to operational procedures. By maintaining a disciplined approach to tree surgeon safety, we support a workplace where risk is managed professionally and every operation is carried out with care, skill, and respect for people and property.