Risk Assessments

We offer full risk assessments where required.

Elements of risk assessment associated with typical fencing contracts include:

• Protecting the public
• Slips and trips
• Controlling physical ill health risks

Risk assessment is generally divided into two parts, Hazard Identification and Hazard Controls. Below is a general representation of items that might be considrered in a Garden Wise Fencing Risk Assessment.

Risk	Control
All hazards	Site specific risk assessment and method statements (RAMS). Only suitable staff and contractors who are fit and capable are employed. Quarterly and annual workplace inspections. All personnel receive a company induction. Working in teams to avoid lone working where possible. Effective management by Project Manager or other competent nominated supervisor. Adherence to site operator's procedures at all times. Comprehensive health and safety policy.
Working at height (WAH). Physical hazards arising from the work. Risk of falling objects.	Working at height is not required and will be covered by a permit-to-work in exceptional circumstances. Work area is isolated from vehicles and other hazards by barriers and / or warning signs. PPE includes hi-viz,safety footwear and hard hats where required by site policy.
Asbestos	The nature of the work does not expose our staff or anyone else to asbestos.
Manual handling (MH). Slips and strains. MSD injuries.	Manual handling is reduced by effective planning and procedures. Separate MH risk assessments are conducted for heavy items. All staff and subcontractors are adequately trained and physically capable to perform the full range of duties. This is assessed at selection and at least annually. Suitable PPE including safety footwear. Support available from head office and other people on site.
Slips and trips	Good housekeeping and personnel required to maintain a tidy workplace. Effective supervision. Quarterly site inspections.
Other trades on site	Site inductions where required. RAMS shared with other trades. PPE where required by site policy includes hi-viz and safety footwear at all times whilst on-site and hard hats in designated zones. Appropriate warning signs and barriers.
Wood dust	All work is outside in the open air
Electric power tools	Visual inspection prior to use. All power tools are batter powered. PPE as appropriate includes goggles, ear defenders, P2 respirators and gloves. Barriers and warning signs. Safety guards (except as outlined below) Annual additional risk assessment for hand-arm vibration and similar risks from vibrating tools.
Generator	Manufacturers instructions always followed. Safe refuelling procedures. Fenced off as appropriate.
Lone working	Avoided whenever possible. Booking in and out of site procedures. Mobile phones when necessary. First aid kits are provided to employees
Transport and storage. Use of company vehicles	All vehicles are properly maintained, insured and MOT'd. All vehicles are equipped with a first aid kit and this is checked regularly. Programme of workplace inspections includes storage areas.
Disposal of waste Environmental concerns. Physical hazards.	Arrangements are agreed with site operator and customer in advance. Manual handling control measures apply.