Health and Safety Policy for Tree Surgeon Operations
Purpose and scope: This health and safety policy outlines the approach taken by our tree surgeon and arboriculture teams to manage risks associated with tree care work. It applies to all operations including pruning, dismantling, stump removal and site clearance performed by a tree care specialist or tree contractor. The policy aims to protect staff, clients, visitors and the public by setting out safe systems of work, competence requirements, and the responsibilities of everyone involved in tree surgery activities.
Responsibilities and competence
All members of the tree surgery crew must be competent, trained and fit for duty. The lead arborist or tree surgeon has overall responsibility for ensuring that every task has been properly assessed and planned. Crew members must report hazards and never undertake work beyond their training. Regular assessments, refresher training, and clear supervision help maintain competence. Personal development, correct certification where required, and proven experience in arborist techniques form the backbone of our safety culture.
Risk assessment and planning
Every project begins with a thorough risk assessment and a written method statement that considers the site, the tree species, the presence of utilities, access and egress, weather conditions, and the proximity of people or property. A tree surgeon will evaluate the tree condition, potential for failure, and appropriate lifting or cutting techniques. Planning includes the selection of tools, choice of appropriate PPE, and establishing exclusion zones to keep bystanders safe during tree surgery and arborist operations.Work equipment and maintenance: Tools such as chainsaws, chippers, ropes and harnesses must be suitable for the task and routinely inspected. Equipment inspections, records and maintenance schedules are maintained to ensure reliability. Use of mechanical aids to reduce manual handling, correct lowering techniques for heavy branches, and secure anchorage systems for aerial work all reduce the likelihood of incidents during tree surgery and maintenance.
Emergency procedures and first aid: The policy includes clear procedures for emergencies, including rescue from height, tree-related injuries and incidents involving machinery. First aid kits are readily available and crew members are trained in first response and basic life support. Communication systems are tested and established before operations commence so that assistance can be summoned quickly when necessary. Incident reporting systems ensure that near-misses are recorded and learned from.
PPE and personal safety: All personnel must wear appropriate protective equipment: helmets, eye protection, hearing protection, cut-resistant gloves and trousers, and high-visibility clothing. Correct footwear and fall protection are essential for those working at height. PPE is selected to suit the specific arborist task and is inspected before use. The use of appropriate PPE reduces exposure to hazards during tree surgery, climbing and ground-based tasks.
Traffic management and public safety: Where tree work is carried out near roads, footpaths or in public spaces, suitable traffic management measures must be implemented. This includes warning signs, cones, marshals and temporary closures where necessary to keep the public and crew safe. A tree contractor must consider pedestrian routes and safe escape paths for workers, ensuring that any work that could drop debris is planned to avoid harm.
Safe systems and environmental considerations: The health and safety policy supports sound environmental practice. Waste management, safe fuel handling, and the protection of root zones and habitats are integrated into job planning. Control measures are put in place to protect wildlife and sensitive vegetation during tree surgery. Methods chosen aim to be effective while minimising damage to the wider environment and maintaining a safe working area.
Monitoring, review and continuous improvement: Regular inspections, toolbox talks and audits keep standards high. Performance is monitored through records of training, equipment checks, incident logs and corrective actions. The policy is reviewed periodically and updated to reflect lessons learned, changes in working practices, or the introduction of new equipment. The commitment to continual improvement ensures that arborist practices evolve to reduce risk and improve safety.
Implementation and culture: The success of this policy depends on a safety-first culture where every team member is empowered to stop work if safety is compromised. Clear communication, leadership from senior tree surgeons, and a proactive approach to hazard mitigation create an environment where safe tree surgery and care can be delivered consistently. Through shared responsibility and adherence to these principles, risks are managed effectively and work is completed safely and professionally.
Summary of key controls:
- Plan each job with a risk assessment and method statement.
- Protect people with exclusion zones, traffic management and PPE.
- Prepare crews with training, supervision and equipment maintenance.
- Provide emergency procedures, first aid and rescue plans.
- Review performance and update practices to drive continuous improvement.
By following this health and safety policy, tree surgeons, arborists and tree care specialists can deliver safe, efficient and environmentally responsible tree surgery and maintenance services while protecting people, property and the natural setting in which they work.