Ben Harman Arboriculture

HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK ACT 1974

COMPANY SAFETY POLICY

Table of Contents

  1. SAFE SYSTEMS OF WORK

In accordance with The Company’s different processes, specific information on safety matters will be set down accordingly in instructions for particular machines or processes. However, many principles of safe working practice are common to any situation and the following rules are to be observed throughout The Company’s premises.

    1. Workplace Requirements

All workplaces, accesses and exits are expected to be kept clean, tidy and free from accumulated rubbish and waste. A tidy place is a safer place.

Tools and equipment must be used properly and kept in good condition. Wear or damage must be reported and rectified with particular attention being paid to safety guards and devices. Electrical and compressed air tools must be in good order, trailing flexes and air lines must be kept clear and visible.

    1. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
  1. MACHINERY

Only trained personnel, or those working under close supervision of a suitably trained person for training purposes, must operate any machine owned or hired by Ben Harman arboriculture.

All machinery will be equipped and maintained according to the above regulations. This will include all guarding and safety devices, which conform to the requirements of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 and PD5304: 2005, and which must be maintained in position at all times. Damage to any machine, or its guards, must be reported immediately to the operators Site Supervisor.

The site supervisor is responsible for ensuring that all work equipment is properly maintained. Maintenance records will be kept and all equipment will be maintained as per manufacturer’s recommendations, such as lifting tackle, hoists, abrasive wheel equipment, compressors.

No person is allowed to drive or operate any vehicle, excavator, shovel, truck, chainsaw etc. unless he or she holds the appropriate license or certificate of competence. Photocopies of the appropriate license or certificate must be filed with the manager’s Health and Safety records.

Risks associated with using the equipment will be controlled by such measures as guards, protective devices, system controls, warning devices, markings, PPE, and safe systems of work.

All Employees should ensure that the equipment selected is suitable for the job in hand.

No Employee will be asked, or shall use, any machine or item of equipment unless they have undergone training in the safe and correct use of the equipment.

  1. MAINTENANCE

Before guards are removed or maintenance work carried out, machines must be rendered safe and in operative by isolation from power services, such as by turning off the engine of a power driven machine, withdrawing fuses in respect of electrical equipment etc. No guards will be removed from machinery without written permission.

Machines undergoing maintenance must be clearly marked with warning notices both at power source and at the control panel to prevent other staff attempting to start the plant.

Where provided lock off devices must be used. Any adjustments, however small, involving the removal of guards must follow the procedures above. When work is completed, all guards must be replaced and secured before running the machine operationally.

Machines undergoing maintenance that can be remotely operated must become the subject of a permit to work system

This permit will include:

  • Details of the work to be undertaken;
  • The date of this work;
  • The length of time designated for the work; and
  • All safety procedures to be implemented.

Prior to accepting the permit to work, the person carrying out that work must ensure that the equipment to be worked on has been isolated and, where appropriate, locked off. The permit must only be cancelled when the person carrying out the work and the authorized person are satisfied, beyond all doubt, that all personnel, tools and equipment have been withdrawn from the working area; and that it is safe to resume operation.

  1. ELECTRICAL AND OTHER POWERED EQUIPMENT

All power tools, electrical machinery, chainsaws and other equipment are to be inspected regularly by the manager or supervisor in any workplace. The records of inspection will be kept in head office.

Defects must be brought to the attention of the site supervisor and must be rectified immediately. Particular attention must be paid to any necessary guards and safety devices.  Appropriate notices of warning to operators are to be posted in suitable places. The use of equipment with defective safety devices is prohibited.

  1. WORK HEIGHT REGULATIONS 2005 (AS AMENDED 2007)

All work at height necessitating the use of work platforms or scaffolds will be erected in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005. A suitably qualified and trained person or persons in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual will erect all scaffolding, including aluminum tower scaffolds. Adequate provision regarding handrails and toe boards will be made, in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations

Working platforms and scaffolds will never be used for storing/stacking materials unless they have been specifically designed to be load bearing by a structural engineer.

Employees will be expected to use ladders and stepladders that are of sound construction; all ladders will be inspected on a monthly basis and the inspection recorded in the ladders register; defects will be reported to the Site Manager. On no account must Employees operate balancing on sawhorses or other ad hoc arrangements.

Access ladders to work platforms or scaffolds will be of sound construction, extend above the work platform and be securely lashed in place. No task will be performed from a ladder unless the ladder is securely tied or footed. At the end of the working day access ladders at ground level shall be removed and securely stored.

There will be a separate generic risk assessment, which specifically covers Working at Height.

All other risk assessments and safe working practices will incorporate the rules as laid down in these regulations.

    1. Rope Access Safety

The Company will, where practicable ensure that Employees make use of safe climbing techniques when doing tree work by either:

  • Work positioning (e.g. changeover climbing using a harness, friction knot and climbing line); or
  • Rope access and positioning (e.g. foot locking or single rope technique SRT)
    1. Use of additional preventative measures
  • Training
  • Using properly chosen equipment
  • Choosing reliable anchor points
  • Following industry and HSE guidance
  • Correct use of tools
    1. Work at Height Training

All Employees required to work at height will receive the appropriate training prior to commencing work.

The Company has the following publications in its Health and Safety File which all Employees are advised to read:

  • Working at Height – A brief guide (HSE)
  • Determination of rope access and work positioning techniques in arboriculture
  • Tree-climbing Operations (AFAG401)
  • Aerial Tree Rescue (AFAG402)
  1. MANUAL HANDLING (OPERATIONS) REGULATIONS 1992

The Health and Safety Officer will assess all generic manual-handling activities, and risks eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level. Task specific manual handling risk assessments will be performed by the Site Supervisors and the appropriate risk reduction measures adopted, all in accordance with the Manual Handling (Operations) Regulations 1992. No Employee or sub-contractor will be expected to lift any object that can be assessed as being likely to cause him or her injury when lifted in the correct manner.

All new Employees will be trained in manual handling operations as part of their initial health and safety induction. This training will incorporate the “TILEprocedure and Employees will be trained to assess the specific task, their own individual capacity, the load involved and the environment, which relates to that specific task.

Where possible, mechanical handling will take place to eliminate the risk of manual handling injury. Where this is not possible, group handling should be considered for heavy components. Personnel will be trained to use all lifting aids. Repetitive handling of blocks etc. of more than 20kg weight is not permitted.

All personnel who have a pre-existing injury that might affect their capability to lift must advise their Line Manager so that the risk of further injury can be avoided.

  1. LIFTING OPERATIONS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS 1998

All lifting equipment will be of adequate strength and stability for each load and every lifting point of the load will also be of adequate strength as required by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998.  All lifting equipment will be marked with its safe working load and will be signed in a Suitable location. A competent person will examine all lifting equipment at prescribed intervals, and his report entered in to The Company register.

Every lifting operation involving lifting equipment will be properly planned by a competent person (typically the trained operator of any piece of lifting equipment), appropriately supervised and carried out in a safe manner as required by the aforementioned Regulations.

  1. EXCAVATIONS

Excavation work will not be carried out unless the area is clear of all underground services or special safety precautions for dealing with them are in place. Such precautions would include study of the appropriate Utility Company’s drawings, CAT scanning the area by personnel trained in the use of the CAT scanner and the location of any underground services located marked on the ground above. No mechanical digging will be allowed within 3 meters of where underground power sources have been identified. Hand digging must proceed from this point using suitably insulated hand tools.

All excavations carried out to a depth of greater than 1 meter will be formed with battered sides or adequately shored up, dependent on soil type. All excavations of less than 1 meter will be assessed to determine whether these measures are necessary. Any excavations greater than 1 meter deep will have suitable barriers with appropriate warning signage of dangers displayed, to prevent persons falling into the excavation.

Where an excavation is in the vicinity of a wall (1 meter), which is greater than 1 meter in height an additional risk assessment, will be made with regard to whether additional shoring to prevent collapse of the wall is required.

At the end of the shift all excavations will be securely boarded over or backfilled, and warning lamps will be set during the hours of darkness or poor visibility, such as fog.

  1. CONFINED SPACE REGULATIONS 1997

No Employee or sub-contractor of The Company will enter a confined space where poisonous or asphyxiate gases may be present without that space first undergoing atmospheric tests to determine the composition of that space. This will include manholes and some excavations. Written permission will be obtained from the client or his representative before entering any such space and a permit to work system applied.

Only Employees trained in entering confined spaces will enter a confined space, they will be supplied with and use airline breathing apparatus and will only enter the space when attached to a harness and lifeline and another Employee or subcontractor is stationed outside the confined space to assist in the case of emergency. No naked flames will be used or be present in or near any area where risk of fire or explosion exists. Where first aid equipment, suitable for the hazards to be encountered, is not available in the immediate area, such equipment will be made available at the entrance to the space prior to work beginning. This will include, where necessary Resuscitation equipment in accordance with the Confined spaces regulations 1997.

  1. HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS/MATERIALS
    1. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (“COSHH”)

As part of the Company’s aim to ensure compliance in COSHH, the following procedures have been put in place and are checked regularly:

  • Signage is clearly displayed in the area that the hazardous chemicals are stored (no smoking, naked flames forbidden, etc.);
  • Shelving is sufficiently strong enough to support the items and corrosion resistant;
  • Lighting is available both natural and artificial to allow for easy identification of labels;
  • Water Supply is readily available if required for fire fighting;
  • Ventilation is sufficient to prevent vapour build up;
  • Construction is impermeable to pesticides;
  • Security – the store is locked when there is no-one on site;
  • PPE is kept on site to ensure that all precautions are taken when working with Hazardous Chemicals; and
  • A list of all chemicals stored on site is kept up-to-date.
    1. Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG)

LPG cylinders are to be kept in outside buildings in ventilated boxes or cages. Connections are to be made by jubilee or similar clips and any gauges, valves or other attachments must be kept in safe working order. Where LPG appliances are used, e.g. heaters in offices and canteens, proper ventilation must be provided to ensure effective air change.

    1. Hazard Communication Policy

The Company is in the process of preparing a Hazard Communication Policy which will be kept in the Health and Safety File.

    1. Waste Disposal

The Company will ensure that it complies with all rules and regulations relating to the safe disposal of all Hazard Chemicals/Materials & Pesticides.

    1. Chemical Hazard Training
  • All Employees are NPTC trained;
  • All Employees are provided with PPE clothing to protect themselves against hazardous substances;
  • All Employees have access to the Health and Safety File which contains brochures on working with Hazardous Materials.
    1. Use and Care of Labels

Neither the Employer nor Employees shall at any time deface or remove labels on incoming or existing containers of hazardous chemicals.  The Employer is obliged to ensure that all Chemicals are appropriately labeled and that Employees are aware of the dangers they pose.

The Company has the following publications in its Health and Safety File which all Employees are advised to read:

  • Working with substances hazardous to health (A brief guide to COSHH)
  • Planning and Managing Pesticide Stores (Forestry Commission)
  • The Idiot’s Guide to CHIP (Chemicals Hazard Information and Packaging)
  • Disposing of Pesticide Waste (www.pesticides.gov.uk)
  1. RISK ASSESSMENT

The Company has carried out Risk Assessments for the activities that are undertaken. These documents lay down the safety control procedures which must be followed and identify appropriate Personal Protective Equipment requirements. These assessments are contained within the companies Health and Safety manual.

Ben Harman arboriculture recognizes that each site has its own specific safety problems and sometimes several different safety issues will be relevant on one site. The Risk Assessments give safety control procedures for safe work at any general location, or for a particular task.

Where practical, prior to commencement of works, a manager or supervisor will visit the site and assess the works to be undertaken taking into account any hazards and associated risks. He will produce a risk assessment and where necessary a method statement which details specific issues relating to the site. Where it is impractical for a manager or supervisor to undertake this, the lead operative of the gang which is detailed to the project will adopt the same procedure and produce a risk assessment which deals with the specific site issues before the onset of any works. A copy of this will be given to the site supervisor of the work on site before work starts and the contents of this site-specific sheet will be discussed at the site induction with all operatives.

All operatives must sign to confirm the receipt and understanding of the method statement and risk assessments.

Any significant findings from existing, new and revised Risk Assessments will be adopted as safe working procedures throughout the Company and will form part of an ongoing development process.

  1. CARTRIDGE OPERATED TOOLS

Cartridge operated tools will only be used by persons of eighteen years of age or older who are in possession of a valid certificate of competence. A register of those persons authorized to operate cartridge tools, and The Company will maintain the tools on which they are trained and authorized to use.

All tools must be used in accordance with manufacturers instructions, which must also be followed in the event of a misfire, loading difficulties etc. Suitable warning notices will be placed at points along access routes to areas in which cartridge operated tool are in use. These will also be placed in any area where there is the possibility of the nail or stud passing through the structure.

A suitably qualified person will examine all cartridge-operated tools at regular intervals, and a record of these inspections maintained.

There will be a separate generic risk assessment, which specifically covers Cartridge Operated Tools.

  1. CONTROL OF VIBRATION AT WORK REGULATIONS 2005

One person will assess all tools, equipment and machinery causing hand/arm or whole body vibration to determine the maximum duration of safe use of that equipment in any one day in accordance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005. Where deemed necessary by assessment health surveillance should be undertaken.

  1. NOISE ASSESSMENTS & AUDIOMETRIC TESTING

Due to the nature of the work done by Ben Harman arboriculture, the Company will ensure that all Employees exposed to risk of hearing damage due to upper exposure action values be provided with:

  • PPE (Ear Defenders) which will be replaced should they become faulty and will be checked for damage on a weekly basis;
  • Properly used controls;
  • Training, information and health surveillance
  • Regular hearing checks in controlled conditions;
  • The results of the hearing checks;

The Company has the following publications in its Health and Safety File which all Employees are advised to read:

  • Controlling noise at work.  Guidance on the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005
  • Noise at Work – Advice for employers INDG362 (rev 1)
  • Noise – Don’t lose your hearing INDG363
  • Reducing noise and woodworking machines

The Company is aware that the forestry (and landscaping) industry is one of the noisiest working environments with average noise levels in excess of 85 decibels (85 dB = the upper exposure action value).  The Company will ensure that everything reasonably practicable is being done to reduce noise exposure including periodically monitoring noise levels.

  1. WORKING ALONE

Ben Harman arboriculture Employees may have occasion to work alone on small projects.  In these circumstances the following key points are taken into consideration:

    1. Weather Related Risks

There are times when weather may present a risk to the Employee such as high winds, etc.  The Employee should assess whether the weather posses a risk to the work at hand and advise the Employer before making a decision to continue.

    1. Heat and/or Cold Stress

Due to the fact that 95% of Ben Harman arboriculture work takes place in the outdoors there are risks related to heat and/or cold stress.  It is the Employees responsibility to ensure that they are taking the relevant precautions (i.e. PPE, clothing for cold/wet weather, precautions for hot weather (hats/sun cream, etc.)

    1. Communications

The Employee must contact the Employer at regular intervals appropriate to the nature of the hazard associated with the Employees work.  If electronic communication is not practicable at the work site then the Employer should designate visits to the site to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the Employee.

The Company has the publication “Working Alone” from the HSE in its Health and Safety File which all Employees are advised to read.

  1. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AT WORK REGULATIONS 1992

Personal Protective Equipment (“PPE”) is provided whether under Statutory Regulation or not.  Employees and Sub-Contractors are advised that PPE must be worn when engaging in Ben Harman arboriculture work at all times. Clothing and hairstyles at work must by suitable for the wearers occupation and not likely to cause danger.

All Employees are reminded of the necessity to protect themselves from injury or health hazards. The Company will always provide any required protective clothing or equipment to its Employees and its absence at any one time should not be taken as an omission. SubContractors will be required to supply and use appropriate protective clothing and equipment at all times.

The site supervisor is responsible for ensuring that all staff are issued with and wear the proper PPE relevant to the job at hand.

Employees and sub contractors will be instructed to take particular care to protect head, eyes, ears, limbs and respiratory organs.

Specified circumstances are:

  • Safety helmets and footwear will be worn on all sites where there is an identified risk of head or foot injury and additionally where the Principal Contractor or client sets this as a rule;
  • Protective glasses and masks will be worn when ragging, drilling, grinding or any work which is in progress which could result in a dusty atmosphere;
  • Ear protection will be worn in all ear protection zones, and at such times where work is being carried out that makes communication difficult;
  • Safety goggles and ear protection must be worn when operating or assisting in the operation of cartridge operated hand tools;
  • Any other operation, which is subsequently, assessed as requiring the use of personal protective equipment.

PPE will be inspected, used and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition and will be renewed as and when necessary. Ear defenders will be examined every month to ensure their effectiveness.

It is the Employees duty of care to ensure that PPE is washed, cleaned and cared for and that the Employer is notified of any degradation or faulty equipment so that replacement PPE items can be issued.

  1. CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY REGULATIONS

Ben Harman arboriculture is aware of its responsibilities within the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007 where these are applicable.

  1. FIRST AID AND REPORTING TO THE HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE

The Company will ensure the following arrangements are in place:

  • The Company will abide by all obligations as set out in the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
  • A First Aid Box will be kept in every workplace, i.e. head office, depot, all site offices and in the cab of each car and van.
  • Each box will be kept fully replenished and the vehicle reference or location will be shown clearly on the lid.
  • Certain individuals will be nominated as competent first-aiders and will be given appropriate training. Their names will be shown clearly on office, depot and site office notice boards.
  • Where Ben Harman arboriculture use sub-contractors, a nominated competent first-aider must be on site at all times.
  • Employees are required to make sure he or she knows where the First Aid Box is in their normal workplace.

All accidents and injuries, however minor, should be reported to the Supervisor in the first instance who will then report to the Health & Safety Manager who will ensure that the accident or incident is investigated as required by the circumstances.

An accident book will be maintained by the Company in order to record the details of any injuries sustained by Employees of the Company or any other person as a result of their work activities or on their premises.

Under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013” (RIDDOR) all of the below should be reported:

  • Fatal accidents;
  • Major injuries;
  • Dangerous occurrences
  • Occupational diseases, and accidents resulting in Employees being off work for more than seven consecutive days (not counting the day of the accident but including Saturdays and Sundays) have to be reported to the Health & Safety Executive and the following actions must therefore be taken;
  • Major injury or admission to hospital for more than 24 hours must be reported in the following manner:
  • Telephone the Company office on 01435 831625 and report the matter at once to the duty office manager.
  • Telephone the Health & Safety Executive on 01926 813330 at once
  • The responsible Manager will complete the relevant form on line to the Health & Safety Executive within seven days of the occurrence.
  • The responsible Manager will ensure that the incident has been properly recorded in the Accident Book.

Dangerous Occurrences, for example:

  • Collapse, overturning or failure of the load-bearing part of a hoist, crane, excavator, etc.
  • Explosion, collapse or bursting of a closed vessel such as compressed air receiver which might have caused death.
  • Electric failure or fire causing stoppage of operations for more than 24 hours
  • Uncontrolled release of highly flammable liquid
  • Unintentional ignition of explosives
  • Any incident of machinery, plant or felled trees coming into contact with insulated overhead power lines.
  • Accidents resulting in a person being incapacitated for work for more than seven consecutive days (excluding the day of the accident but including Saturdays and Sundays and recognized holidays)
    • Inform the duty office manager at The Company Office on 01926 813330
    • The responsible Manager will complete the relevant form online to the Health and Safety Executive at 19 Ridgeway, 9 Quinton Business Park, Quinton, Birmingham, B32 1AL within fifteen days of the occurrence.
    • The responsible Manager will ensure that the incident has been properly recorded in the Accident Book.
  1. FIRE PROTECTION

Fire is a potential hazard in the Forestry and Landscaping industry especially in the summer months.  Ben Harman arboriculture takes special precautions relating to Fire Protection.  The following procedures have been implemented:

  • Portable fire extinguishers are in every vehicle;
  • Employees have been trained how to use fire extinguishers and what to do in an event of fire.

The Company has the following publications in its Health and Safety File which all Employees are advised to read:

  • Fire Prevention and Combustible and Flammable Liquids Handling/Storage Procedures
  1. ACCIDENT AND INCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Accidents at work must be reported in accordance with The Company’s procedures. A record is kept of all accidents and the circumstances are always investigated to see if any special actions are required on the part of management.

Near miss incidents must also be reported as these assist in identifying potential problems/trends, which, if addressed, may prevent an accident occurring in the future.

Initial investigation will be by the line manager/supervisor by the Health and Safety Manager or more senior manager.

The Company health and safety adviser will be informed of all serious accidents/incidents and assist The Company in investigating these.

  1. CONSULATION

Under the Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996, where there are Employees who are not represented under the 1977 regulations, the employer shall consult those Employees in good time on matters relating to their Health and Safety at work in particular with regard to:

  • Introduction of any measure at the workplace, which may substantially affect the Health and Safety of Employees.
  • Arrangements for appointing, or as the case may be, nominating persons

In accordance with regulations 6(1) and 7(1)(b) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992.  Any Health and Safety information The Company is required to provide to those Employees by or under the relevant statutory provisions, the planning and organization of any Health and Safety training.  The Company is required to provide to those Employees by or under the relevant statutory provisions and The Health and Safety consequences for those Employees of the Introduction (including the planning thereof) of new technologies in the workplace.

Consultation will take place on a 3 monthly basis (or sooner if the matter is deemed urgent) and will take the form of a Health and Safety committee made up of managers and staff representatives. The managers who may refer to their safety advisors for advice will take any matters arising forward.  Any outcomes will be advised to staff as soon as they are resolved.

  1. COMMUNICATION WITH EMPLOYEES

The Company has a responsibility to communicate and liaise with their workforce on matters of health and safety.  This will include:

  • Establishing and maintaining management control of health and safety;
  • Promoting co-ordination between individuals, representatives and groups so that health and safety becomes a collaborative effort;
  • Ensuring the communication of information throughout the organization;
  • Securing the co-operation of everyone in the fulfillment of their respective duties.
  1. YOUNG PERSONS AND APPRENTICES

Care will be taken at all times to ensure that apprentices and persons under the age of eighteen are not exposed to any unnecessary risks. In particular, apprentices will not be employed in any areas where live equipment is involved until they are sufficiently knowledgeable to be aware of the danger and the procedures to be taken in the event of any emergency and even then only when working under the supervision of a suitably qualified or experienced supervisor. In addition, no person under the age of eighteen shall be permitted to work at a height greater than 3 meters.

The Company recognizes the importance of ensuring that clear lines of communication remain open throughout the organization to ensure that everyone participates in maintaining an effective health and safety system to the benefit of all.

  1. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

In addition to those in existence for fire and first aid, Emergency procedures will be written and communicated as appropriate for individual circumstances; however the basic procedures are listed below:

  • Appropriate fire fighting equipment and alarms will be provided, inspected and maintained in all Company workplaces;
  • NB: Do not use a water fire extinguisher on electrical equipment, which is still connected to the mains supply;
  • Every Employee is required to make sure he or she knows the location of all appliances in their normal place of work and the means of escape from the building;
  • All escape routes and exit doors must be kept clear of obstruction and is in proper working order;
  • Workers on site will ensure that they conform to the emergency procedures detailed on the site-specific sheet and the items covered in the induction procedures prior to commencement of work;
  • The site supervisor is responsible for the implementation of fire and emergency procedures on that site;
  • Visitors to sites and offices must be signed in and out of the Visitors Book so that in the event of an emergency everyone can be accounted for at a particular location at any given time of the day.

The Company will ensure that all emergency procedures are reviewed either annually, when a change in operating procedures occurs, or as a result of an incident.

  1. SECURITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY

Workplaces must be kept secure against trespass by others, particularly children, inside and outside working hours.

Visitors are not allowed to enter working areas where danger might exist, unless accompanied by a Company Employee. The accompanying Employee must ensure that visitors observe the same health & safety requirement as Company personnel and that they wear appropriate protective clothing such as safety helmets.

All Employees are required to co-operate in doing everything possible to ensure that members of the public are properly protected in areas of Company operations.

Site Supervisors are to ensure that any Contractors or Subcontractor who they engage to do the work in Company areas observes The Company Safety Policy.

  1. SITE OFFICES AND WELFARE FACILITIES

The Company will ensure that suitable and sufficient welfare facilities, extending to mess area, washing and sanitary facilities, are provided on site at all times with warm/hot running water provided. Additionally changing and drying facilities alongside shower facilities may be required dependent upon the nature of the site and project.  It will be the responsibility of the site agent and Employees to keep these facilities clean and hygienic at all times. Where possible The Company will ensure that suitable facilities are provided for their Employees on site.

All site premises will be wired in accordance with IEE Regulations and will be kept clean and tidy at all times to minimize the risk of fire and vermin.

  1. WASTE MANAGEMENT AND HOUSEKEEPING

Sites and work areas will be kept clean and tidy, and waste will not be allowed to accumulate. All stairways and passages will be kept free from materials and obstructions, as will the edges of hoist ways and other floor openings.

Waste will be segregated and disposed of into containers marked as appropriate e.g. oil, plastic, wood, paper etc.

Waste will be removed regularly in suitable containers and taken to a disposal area.

Waste shall be disposed of via a registered waste carrier and in accordance with the Duty of Care Code of Practice.

  1. SUB-CONTRACTOR SELECTION PROCESS

Regional managers are nominated by The Company to assess the suitability of sub-contractors. Using The Company’s sub contractor selection process procedures for the selection of sub-contractors, The Company must satisfy itself that potential sub-contractors have adequate Health and Safety procedures in place prior to being selected to work for Ben Harman arboriculture. Upon selection by The Company, all subcontractors must agree to abide by Ben Harman arboriculture Health and Safety procedures and best practices as a minimum standard.

  1. SITE INSPECTIONS

In accordance with the Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1996, the following representatives have been nominated by The Company to carry out periodic inspections of sites and record the details on our site inspection forms. Any issues raised from these inspections will be advised immediately on site and the appropriate actions required to rectify any incorrect procedures identified will be communicated to managers and staff.

Ben Harman (Health and Safety Manager)

  1. ELECTRICAL INSPECTIONS

The Managing Director is responsible for the inspection and testing procedures for all electrical equipment.

In the office environment a qualified electrician and each appliance test recorded by means of a label affixed to the piece of equipment will test all electrical equipment on an annual basis.

Outside of the office environment a qualified electrician will test all electrical equipment on an annual basis and this test will be recorded.

All electrical equipment being used on site should be inspected and tested prior to use by the operative to ensure that it is in working order. Any defects should be brought to the attention of the site supervisor immediately.

  1. TRAINING

Training is seen as an essential element in raising standards of health and safety practice. The Company will therefore ensure that all Employees and sub-contractors have had, or are given, adequate training for the tasks they are to perform. A record of each Employees training history will be maintained at The Company’s offices.

As a general rule, no Employee or sub-contractor will be expected to perform any task, operate any piece of plant or equipment unless adequate training has been given, or is working under the direct supervision of some other Employee or sub­ contractor who is so trained.

In certain instances the law requires that only competent and trained Employees or sub-contractors can operate equipment or perform certain tasks.  Examples would be the erection and alteration of scaffold, which must be carried out by or under the supervision of a trained scaffold erector. Trained and certificated personnel must operate the operation of forklift trucks or materials handlers, all such machines.

Safe systems of work will be devised to indicate to all Employees and sub­ contractors the manner in which certain tasks are to be performed.

No Employee shall undertake any work for The Company without taking part in an induction training or toolbox training session that will be conducted by the Site Agent or other suitably trained member.

Safe systems of work will be devised to indicate to all Employees the manner in which certain tasks are to be performed.

Specific Training Requirements by Ben Harman arboriculture will include but not be limited to:

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Working at Height – Fall Protection
  • Chemical Hazards and Hazardous Materials
  • Fire Protection
  • First Aid
  • Safety in the Workplace
  1. OBLIGATIONS

The Company will take all reasonable and practical steps to fulfill its obligations, duties and responsibilities under all Acts and Regulations affecting the Health and Safety of its Employees.

  1. REVIEW OF HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

The Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed on an annual basis and updated to include new risks and changes in procedures or responsibilities when required.

Last Reviewed: 01/04/2015

Signed: _______________________

Ben Harman

Director

ADDENDUM A – GENERAL POLICY

The health, safety and welfare of Employees and other persons affected by the Company’s activities are of prime importance to Ben Harman arboriculture hereinafter referred to as (“BHA”) and are regarded as essential elements in the Company’s effective operation. It is the policy of BHA to avoid, so far as is reasonably practical, exposing its staff to risks to their health and safety. The prevention of accidents, particularly those involving personal injury or damage to equipment and property is recognized as being a major priority as well as essential for the efficient management of the business.

This Health and Safety Policy Statement commits BHA to the implementation of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, including all other health and safety legislation which is subordinate to it, and actively seeks the full understanding and co-operation of all Employees for their commitment to this objective.

BHA will assess the risks to the health and safety of all Employees and of anyone else who may be affected by its work activity. These assessments will enable any necessary preventative and protective measures to be taken or systems of work devised to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

The Board of Directors recognizes that the Company carries the burden of responsibility for managing health and safety but this responsibility must be shared with all who work for the Company who must ensure that they work safely, following the Company’s policies and procedures.  BHA is an amenity based Company and not a Construction Company and therefore the Health and Safety Policy’s in place will reflect that.

BHA will ensure that all levels of management implement and support the Health and Safety Policy by: –

  • Ensuring that all “work equipment” is maintained to operate and function safely in compliance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.
  • Ensuring the provision of adequate instructions and procedures as necessary for the safe use of all work equipment, the performance of operations and the safe handling of materials.
  • Supervision of all procedures as necessary by competent personnel.
  • Provision of training as necessary for all Employees within job requirements
  • Provision of appropriate protective clothing and equipment in compliance with the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.
  • Provision of guidelines, procedures and training for all Employees who habitually use display screen equipment as a significant part of their normal work.
  • Ensuring the avoidance of hazardous manual handling operations, where reasonably practicable. Assess adequately any manual handling operations that cannot be avoided and reduce the risk of injury through manual handling as far as reasonably practicable.
  • Making arrangements for the periodic inspection of all work places, work equipment and systems of work with resultant report outlining all deficiencies and corrective action that may be required.
  • Providing medical advice as necessary.

All Employees are reminded that they are required to work in conformity with sections 7 and 8 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 together with all other duties placed on Employees by any of the subordinate health and safety legislation. These duties require all Employees to act in the course of their employment with due care for the Health, Safety and Welfare of themselves and any other person who may be affected by their activities.

It will be a condition of employment that all persons employed by BHA will conform to the standards and objectives and the arrangements for managing health and safety, set out in this Health and Safety Policy, including safe systems of work, control measures set by risk assessments etc., and failure to adhere to the terms and conditions of these documents may result in disciplinary action being taken.

With this Health & Safety Policy Statement, every Employee will receive an indication from management as to the organization and arrangements for carrying out this policy, and this will be revised from time to time as necessary.

The Company has set up a Health and Safety Committee formed by the Managing Director, the Health and Safety Officer, Managers and Employee representatives. The Committee will meet every 3 months to discuss matters of Health and Safety and any issues raised will be taken forward by the Managing Director and Health and Safety Officer. Any changes to the Companys procedures/documentation will be advised to staff as and when they occur.

This Safety Policy includes:

Part B   – which sets out the organization for carrying it out, and

Part C   – the arrangements, which the Company makes for carrying it out.

Last Reviewed: 01/04/2015

Signed: __________________________

Ben Harman

Director

ADDENDUM B – ORGANISATION FOR HEALTH & SAFETY

  1. Mr. B Harman  is responsible for ensuring that the Company complies with its duties, as Managing Director Mr. Harman  is responsible for the implementation of this Policy on all the Company’s work sites, including the supervision and training of all personnel, whether directly employed or whether employed as subcontractors under The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and subordinate Regulations. This responsibility extends to ensuring that the Company’s Offices and Depots are safe places of work.
  1. The Site Supervisor on any works site, at any time, is responsible, through the local Manager, to Mr. B Harman for the control and supervision of all directly employed and subcontracted Employees and workers, and all visiting personnel in all matters relating to compliance with the Company’s Health and Safety Policy.
  1. The Managers of the Company will:
    1. Contribute to the maintenance and support of the Company Health and Safety Policy.
    2. Communicate the Policy to all Employees and make sure that they implement it.
    3. Ensure that all those under their control observe and comply with the terms of the Companys Health and Safety policy
    4. Ensure that periodic checks are made to see that all procedures are properly observed.
    5. Ensure that sufficient financial and other resources are made available to implement the Policy.

Responsibility of All Employees (directly employed and subcontracted)

  1. All Employees have the responsibility to comply with the terms of the Company Health and Safety policy and in particular must:
  • Use any protective and safety equipment and follow all safety procedures as laid down in the relevant FISA, HSE and AFAG Guidelines or as instructed by BHA management.
  • Report all accidents where injury occurs to their Site Supervisor and ensure that the
  • Circumstances of the accident and injury are reported in the accident book
  • Report all Dangerous occurrences where damage to equipment, or personal injury has, or may have, occurred which may be hazardous to health, not take risks or behave contrary to the Companys Health and Safety Policy and Procedures.
  • Leave any situations unattended which may represent a danger to others
  • Co-operate fully in the investigation of accidents
  • Where members of staff are absent due to accidental injury or illness ensure that Sickness Records and Attendance Records are supplied and maintained.
  1. Any Employee who is negligent in the execution of the Companys Health and Safety Policy will be subject to any Disciplinary Procedures operating within the Company from time to time.

Last Reviewed: 01/04/2015

Signed: __________________________

Ben Harman

Director

ADDENDUM C – ARRANGEMENTS FOR CARRYING OUT THE POLICY

The following pages have been produced to give effect to The Companys Safety Policy Statement. They are written in the form of instructions and guidance to fill Employees. They form the basis of how safety would be integrated into this Companys working practices.

No instructions can cover all eventualities, but in general The Company will strive to comply with and be guided by the following pieces of health and safety legislation and their associated Codes of Practice.

Acts of Parliament:

Control of Pollution Act 1974

Environmental Protection Act 1990

Fire (Scotland) Act 2005

Food & Environmental Protection Act 1995

Health and Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974

Mines & Quarries Act 1954

Ragwort Control Act c.40 2003

Railways Act c.14 2005

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

Road Traffic Act c.40 1991

Regulations List:

Carriage of Dangerous Goods & Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009

Confined Space Regulations 1997

Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007

Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012

Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002

Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002

Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005

Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations 2002

Health & Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992

Highly Flammable Liquids & Liquefied Petroleum Gases Regulations 1972

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006

Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998

Health & Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996

Health & Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981

Health & Safety (Safety Signs & Signals) Regulations 1996

Ionizing Radiation Regulation 1999

Lifting Operations & Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

Pressure Equipment Regulations 1999

Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992

Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000

Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013

Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008

Work at Height Regulations 2005, as amended 2007

Working Time Regulations 1998

Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992