Health and Safety Policy for Tree Surgeons Walthamstow

Our health and safety policy sets out the standards expected from every tree surgeon in Walthamstow and from everyone involved in arboricultural work on our behalf. Tree surgery is physically demanding, often carried out at height, near structures, and around powered equipment, so a careful and disciplined approach is essential. We are committed to protecting workers, clients, the public, and property by managing risks properly and by maintaining a safe working environment at all times.

All tree surgeons are expected to follow this policy and to take personal responsibility for their actions. Safety is not treated as an optional extra; it is part of everyday work planning, task execution, and site behaviour. We aim to prevent injury, reduce occupational illness, and ensure that every job is completed with a clear understanding of hazards and control measures. This applies to tree pruning, crown reductions, felling, stump work, site clearance, and all related operations.

Before any work begins, the team completes a suitable assessment of the site, the trees, and the surrounding environment. This includes checking for overhead lines, unstable branches, weak stems, falling debris, traffic movement, weather conditions, ground stability, and public access. The findings are used to plan the work sequence, select the correct equipment, and decide whether additional controls are needed. Where a task presents unacceptable risk, the work is postponed until it can be made safe.

Safe Working Practices

The tree surgery team uses method statements and task-specific planning to ensure that operations are controlled from start to finish. Climbing, cutting, lowering, rigging, and machinery use are carried out only by competent personnel with appropriate training and authorisation. Tools and equipment are inspected before use, maintained in good condition, and removed from service if any defect is found. PPE such as helmets, eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, chainsaw trousers, and protective boots must be worn whenever required by the task.

Communication is a core part of safe work. Team members use agreed signals, clear instructions, and regular checks to coordinate operations, especially where multiple people are working at different heights or in confined spaces. The ground team must remain alert to falling material, rope movement, and machine activity. A competent supervisor or team leader monitors conditions throughout the job and stops work immediately if a new hazard develops.

Chainsaw and Equipment Safety

Training, Competence, and Supervision

We believe that a professional arboricultural team must be trained, supervised, and refreshed regularly. New starters receive induction on site rules, emergency arrangements, manual handling, hazard awareness, and equipment handling. Experienced staff are also expected to keep their skills current and to work only within their competence. Where specialist tasks are needed, such as complex rigging or emergency tree removal, additional planning and oversight are provided.

Manual handling is managed carefully because timber, tools, brash, and equipment can create strain or impact injuries. Workers are encouraged to use mechanical aids, team lifts, and efficient work positioning to reduce unnecessary effort. Fatigue, stress, and poor concentration are recognised as factors that can increase risk, so rest breaks and sensible scheduling are built into the workday. Well-managed tree care relies on both physical preparation and good judgement.

First aid provisions are kept suitable for the type of work being carried out, and the team knows how to respond to injuries, cuts, falls, and equipment incidents. Emergency procedures are explained during planning and reviewed on site, including how to stop operations, make the area safe, and call for help if needed. For work involving the public or road users, additional precautions may be required to protect others from moving vehicles, falling material, or restricted access.

Environmental and Public Safety

Tree surgery can affect nearby property, gardens, fences, footpaths, and sensitive planting, so protection measures are always considered as part of the risk assessment. Debris is controlled, work areas are signed or cordoned where appropriate, and equipment is positioned to minimise disturbance. Where trees are near public areas, extra care is taken to reduce the chance of injury to passers-by or damage to adjacent surfaces and structures.

We also take environmental responsibility seriously. Waste materials are separated where possible, fuel and oils are handled carefully, and pollution prevention practices are followed to reduce contamination. Wildlife, nesting birds, and protected habitats are considered before work starts, and operations are adjusted if necessary to avoid unnecessary disturbance. This supports a responsible approach to tree surgeon safety and broader site stewardship.

Reporting and Review

Conclusion

This health and safety policy is designed to create a consistent framework for safe tree work. By combining planning, training, supervision, communication, and proper use of equipment, we reduce risk and protect everyone affected by our operations. Every Walthamstow tree surgeon working under this policy is expected to uphold these standards and contribute to a culture where safety, competence, and care come first.

Policy statement: We will work systematically, remain alert to hazards, and take all reasonably practicable steps to prevent harm during all arboricultural activities.