about…trees has full Arboricultural Insurance with Public and Products Liability of £5 million and Employers Liability of £10 million which means we have every eventuality covered for your peace of mind. We are fully qualified with the relevant NPTC certificates and a NCH (arb) along with nearly 20 years practical experience. We are Technician status members of the Arboricultural Association (A.A.) grade TechArborA member number TE02523
High Winds in Kent – The Impact on Trees in Full Leaf and How to Protect Them
As Kent’s leading tree care company, About Trees Ltd., we are passionate about sharing our extensive knowledge about tree care. A topic that holds considerable relevance, particularly during the warmer months, is the impact of high winds on trees in full leaf.
High winds and summer storms in Kent can pose unique challenges to our trees. While winds can play a role in strengthening trees, they can also be a force of destruction, causing serious damage to trees in full leaf.
The most prominent issue with high winds during the summer in Kent is their unpredictable nature. Strong winds can cause even healthy trees to bend and sway, potentially leading to root failure, branch breakage, or even total tree failure. The problem is amplified when a tree is in full leaf – the leaves act like sails, increasing the tree’s surface area exposed to wind.
What’s more, high winds can lead to a phenomenon known as windthrow, where trees are uprooted entirely by the force of the wind. Windthrows are often a result of the saturated soils following heavy rainfall in Kent’s summers, which reduce the soil’s stability and grip on the tree roots. This phenomenon can be highly destructive, damaging property and causing injuries.
The risk factor is further increased when high winds coincide with heavy rainfall. Wet soils can destabilise trees, while the additional weight of water-laden leaves can further stress them. As such, it’s crucial to monitor weather forecasts and stay vigilant about potential storm threats.
We at About Trees Ltd., Kent’s professional arborists, understand these risks and provide preventative measures to help protect your trees. Regular pruning by trained arborists, like our team, can reduce the leaf area exposed to wind and help create a more streamlined structure. We also offer comprehensive tree surveys, assessing the stability of your trees considering factors such as species, health, age, and location.
Planting trees in groups or utilising windbreaks can also help reduce the impact of high winds. These strategies can buffer the trees, reducing wind speed and decreasing the chances of individual trees being uprooted.
Our team of certified professionals at About Trees Ltd. is dedicated to providing expert tree care in Kent. We aim to protect your trees from potential damage caused by high winds while ensuring their longevity and safety.
In conclusion, while high winds can pose a significant risk to some of our trees in full leaf, in Kent, there are numerous strategies to mitigate these risks. Regular maintenance and professional tree care is key to the health and safety of your trees.
Don’t wait for the high winds of summer to remind you of the importance of tree care. Contact About Trees Ltd., your trusted tree care company in Kent, today for a comprehensive tree health check. Let’s work together to ensure your trees are as prepared as they can be for the unusual challenges of the season.
Detecting the Early Warning Signs of Ash Dieback
Notice the dark section under my thumb and the “burnt” looking leaves, and then comes the crown dieback seen clearly in the photo on the right- this is typical
At About Trees Ltd., we understand the value of your ash trees in Kent (Fraxinus excelsior) and the importance of preserving their health and beauty while prioritising safety. Our professional tree care services are tailored to address the specific challenges posed by Ash Dieback, ensuring the longevity of your trees and the safety of your property. We’ve made a handy guide that will be available to download to help you out when diagnosing Ash Dieback, it’s been kept simple and easy to read for you.
Identifying Ash Dieback: Detect the Early Warning Signs
Ash Dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is a serious threat to the health and vitality of ash trees in Kent and the surrounding counties. It is crucial to be able to identify the early warning signs of this disease to take prompt action and mitigate its impact. By closely monitoring your ash trees, you can detect the following indicators of Ash Dieback:
1. Crown Dieback:
One of the primary symptoms of Ash Dieback is the progressive dieback of the crown. Initially, the upper branches show signs of withering and decline. As the disease progresses, more branches become affected, resulting in a sparse foliage appearance. Premature leaf loss and reduced canopy density are also common characteristics. Crown dieback signifies significant damage to the tree’s vascular system, hampering its ability to transport water and nutrients efficiently.
2. Diamond-shaped Lesions:
Ash trees afflicted by Ash Dieback often exhibit diamond*-shaped lesions on the bark of the trunk and branches. These lesions are caused by the invasion of the fungus and subsequent damage to the tree’s tissues. They may appear dark brown or purple and are typically accompanied by cracks or splits in the bark. The presence of these lesions indicates the active infection and further supports the diagnosis of Ash Dieback.
*typically, as nature does not want to be too predicable, these are not always diamond shaped.
3. Epicormic Growth:
In response to the stress caused by Ash Dieback, ash trees may exhibit epicormic growth. This phenomenon involves the development of new shoots from dormant buds on the main stem or branches. These shoots often appear weak, distorted, and discolored. Epicormic growth is the tree’s attempt to compensate for the loss of leaf area and impaired nutrient uptake due to the disease.
4. Crown Thinning and Dying Branches:
As Ash Dieback progresses, the tree’s crown continues to thin, and more branches succumb to the disease. Crown thinning is a consequence of the extensive damage to the tree’s vascular system and the inability to sustain a healthy canopy. Dying branches, starting from the top of the tree and progressing downwards, are a clear indication of the disease’s detrimental impact on the tree’s overall health and vigor.
Early detection of Ash Dieback is crucial for implementing appropriate management strategies and minimising the disease’s spread. If you observe any of these signs in your ash trees, it is vital to consult a professional arborist, such as the experts at About Trees Ltd., to assess the severity of the infection and develop a targeted treatment plan. Prompt action can significantly increase the chances of preserving the affected trees and protecting neighboring ash trees from the devastating effects of Ash Dieback.
By staying vigilant and understanding the early warning signs, you play a critical role in safeguarding the health and longevity of your ash trees. Together with the expertise of About Trees Ltd., we can combat Ash Dieback and ensure a thriving tree population for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Why Choose Us:
- Expert Arborists: Our team of certified arborists has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating Ash Dieback in Kent and the surrounding counties. We stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices to provide you with the most effective solutions.
- Comprehensive Services: From initial inspections to precise diagnoses and customised management plans, we offer a wide range of tree care services to address Ash Dieback and other tree-related issues.
- Advanced Techniques: We employ state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to ensure efficient and effective treatment. Our team is trained in the latest tree care methodologies to deliver superior results.
- Environmentally Friendly Approach: We prioritise sustainable tree care practices, employing methods that minimise the impact on the environment while effectively managing Ash Dieback. Our aim is to protect both your trees and the surrounding ecosystem.
- Customer Satisfaction: We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. From the moment you contact us, you can expect clear communication, professional advice, and a commitment to meeting your tree care needs, with safety as our top priority.
Don’t forget
If you suspect that your ash trees are affected by Ash Dieback, look out for the following signs:
- Wilting or browning leaves
- Crown dieback
- Lesions on the bark
- Epicormic growth (shoots growing from the trunk or branches)
If you observe these symptoms, contact About Trees Ltd. immediately for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan.
Conclusion:
Don’t wait until it’s too late to address the threat of Ash Dieback in your ash trees in Kent and the surrounding counties. Trust About Trees Ltd.’s expertise and commitment to preserving your trees’ health and beauty while ensuring your safety and satisfaction. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and customised tree care plan.
The Importance of Choosing Native Trees: Enhancing Gardens and Commercial spaces
Introduction:
As a leading tree care company, we understand the vital role that trees play in creating thriving and sustainable environments. When it comes to replanting in gardens or commercial schemes, the choice of trees becomes crucial. In this blog, we will delve into the immense benefits of selecting native trees, exploring their impact on ecosystems and the wider environment. Additionally, we will highlight the significance of native shrubs and flowers. Under separate headings, we will present a comprehensive list of the top 10 native trees for replanting, providing insights into their growth habits, dimensions, and unique characteristics. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the wonders of native trees and their extraordinary contribution to our surroundings.
The Importance of Choosing Native Trees:
Native trees are the backbone of healthy ecosystems. They have evolved over time to thrive in specific regions, making them well-adapted to local climates, soils, and wildlife. By choosing native trees when replanting in gardens or commercial schemes, we ensure numerous benefits for the environment and our communities:
- Biodiversity and Habitat Conservation:
Native trees support biodiversity by providing habitat, food sources, and shelter for a wide range of wildlife. They have intricate relationships with native insects, birds, and mammals, contributing to the delicate balance of local ecosystems. By choosing native trees, we help preserve and restore biodiversity, creating healthier and more resilient environments. - Adaptation to Local Conditions:
Native trees have evolved to withstand local climate conditions, including temperature, rainfall patterns, and soil types. They are naturally suited to thrive in their specific regions, requiring less maintenance and resources. By choosing native trees, we ensure their ability to adapt to local conditions, resulting in healthier and more sustainable landscapes. - Ecosystem Services:
Native trees offer a multitude of ecosystem services. They improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. Native tree roots help prevent soil erosion, stabilize slopes, and improve water infiltration. Their canopies provide shade, reducing the urban heat island effect. Native trees also sequester carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change. By planting native trees, we maximize the benefits these trees provide to the environment and society. - Cultural and Heritage Value:
Native trees hold cultural and historical significance. They are deeply intertwined with local traditions, folklore, and identities. By planting native trees, we preserve our cultural heritage and strengthen our connection to the land. Native trees also contribute to the unique character and sense of place in a region, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and creating a distinctive atmosphere.
Native Trees: Top 10 Choices for Replanting:
- Oak (Quercus robur):
- Growth Habit: Broad, spreading crown with sturdy branches.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 30m, Spread: up to 20m.
- Standout Characteristics: Majestic presence, attractive acorns, and support for over 280 insect species.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Prefers well-drained soils, preferably slightly acidic to neutral. Best suited for open spaces, parks, or large gardens where it has ample room to grow.
- Beech (Fagus sylvatica):
- Growth Habit: Elegant, dense canopy with smooth silver-gray bark.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 25m, Spread: up to 20m.
- Standout Characteristics: Vibrant autumn foliage, supports a variety of wildlife, and often forms ancient woodland.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in fertile, well-drained soils. Can tolerate shade but performs best in full sunlight. Suitable for both urban and rural areas, including woodland planting and hedgerows.
- Silver Birch (Betula pendula):
- Growth Habit: Graceful, light canopy with distinctive silver-white bark.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 25m, Spread: up to 10m.
- Standout Characteristics: Delicate foliage, wildlife-friendly, and hosts over 300 insect species.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to various soil types, including well-drained and even poor soils. Prefers full sunlight and is well-suited for smaller gardens, parklands, or as an ornamental tree.
- Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris):
- Growth Habit: Conical shape with distinctive reddish-brown bark.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 35m, Spread: up to 10m.
- Standout Characteristics: Hardy, adaptable, provides nesting sites for birds, and is a symbol of Scotland’s forests.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Prefers full sunlight and is well-suited for large gardens, coastal areas, or open landscapes. Not ideal for compacted or waterlogged soils.
- Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia):
- Growth Habit: Compact, rounded crown with clusters of vibrant red berries.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 15m, Spread: up to 8m.
- Standout Characteristics: Berries attract birds, attractive spring blossoms, and rich folklore associations.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to a range of soil types, but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. Can tolerate partial shade but performs best in full sunlight. Suitable for small to medium-sized gardens and woodland edges.
- Field Maple (Acer campestre):
- Growth Habit: Rounded crown with green-yellow foliage turning to a beautiful orange in autumn.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 20m, Spread: up to 15m.
- Standout Characteristics: Ideal for urban environments, supports diverse wildlife, and is often used for hedgerows.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to various soil types, including clay and chalk soils. Tolerates partial shade but prefers full sunlight. Suitable for urban environments, hedges, or as a specimen tree.
- Wild Cherry (Prunus avium):
- Growth Habit: Broad, spreading crown with clusters of white flowers in spring.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 25m, Spread: up to 12m.
- Standout Characteristics: Showy blossoms, edible fruit, and provides nesting sites for birds.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils. Prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Well-suited for parklands, woodland edges, or as an ornamental tree.
- Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis):
- Growth Habit: Compact, rounded crown with distinctive lobed leaves.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 15m, Spread: up to 10m.
- Standout Characteristics: Rare and valuable tree, supports a wide range of wildlife, and produces small edible fruits known as “chequers.”
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, preferably loamy or sandy. Prefers full sunlight or partial shade. Suitable for woodland planting, parklands, or mixed hedgerows.
- Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus):
- Growth Habit: Distinctive pleated leaves, forming a dense and rounded crown.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 20m, Spread: up to 15m.
- Standout Characteristics: Beautiful autumn colors, ideal for hedging, and supports woodland flora and fauna.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to various soil types, including clay and chalk soils. Tolerates shade but prefers full sunlight. Suitable for hedges, woodland edges, or as a specimen tree in gardens.
- Yew (Taxus baccata):
- Growth Habit: Dense, dark-green needles and red berries.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 20m, Spread: up to 15m.
- Standout Characteristics: Long-living, evergreen foliage, rich historical symbolism, and provides shelter for birds.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Tolerates shade but prefers full sunlight. Suitable for formal gardens, hedging, or as an ornamental tree.
Conclusion:
Choosing native trees for replanting in gardens or commercial schemes is a decision that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Native trees contribute significantly to the overall health and sustainability of ecosystems. By supporting biodiversity, providing habitat for wildlife, and offering numerous environmental benefits, native trees play an essential role in creating a greener and more balanced world. Let’s work together to preserve our natural heritage. To learn more about native trees or to request a quote for our tree care services, contact us at info@abouttrees.co.uk or book a quote online at [insert Calendly link].
References:
- The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
- The Woodland Trust
- The Wildlife Trusts
The Imperative of Autumnal Tree Maintenance: Your Comprehensive Homeowner’s Guide
As the vibrant colours and warm days of summer yield to the cool crispness of autumn, it’s easy to overlook one of the most essential seasonal tasks for homeowners—tree maintenance. While many are preoccupied with their autumn wardrobe and festive preparations, as the owner of a tree care company, I’m here to stress that now is the opportune time to shift your focus to your garden’s tall, leafy residents.
Caring for your trees is not simply about aesthetics; it’s a vital proactive strategy that contributes to their long-term health, safety, and structural integrity. With guidance from leading UK horticultural groups like the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), this comprehensive blog will clarify why tree maintenance should top your list of autumnal tasks. The classic English adage, “Prevention is better than cure,” holds especially true in the realm of arboriculture.
Understanding the Importance of Pre-Autumn Tree Maintenance
The Unforgiving Nature of Autumn Weather
Meteorological data from the UK’s Met Office confirms that the frequency of storms, gales, and strong winds increases notably during the autumn months. These elements can wreak havoc on weakened or neglected trees. In extreme cases, like the Great Storm of 1987 that resulted in the loss of 15 million trees in England alone, the consequences of neglect can be downright devastating.
The Value Proposition of Preventative Measures
“Prevention is better than cure.” This well-worn phrase captures the essence of why pre-emptive action in tree maintenance is so crucial. Preventative care not only saves you the emotional and financial toll of losing a tree but also preserves the structural integrity of the other trees and even your property.
The Comprehensive Pre-Autumn Tree Maintenance Checklist
Professional Services to Consider:
- Tree Health Assessment: The first step should always be a thorough assessment by a qualified arborist. This provides invaluable insights into the tree’s health, revealing any diseases or structural weaknesses that require immediate attention.
- Strategic Pruning: Beyond eliminating dead or dangerous branches, professional pruning can be tailored to the tree’s specific needs, fostering healthy growth patterns and increasing resilience against environmental stressors.
- Deep Root Fertilisation: This is an advanced treatment designed to fortify the tree’s root system, enhancing its natural defences.
- Pest and Disease Management: Employ an expert to identify, treat, and control any insect infestations or diseases, thereby protecting your trees through the winter months.
- Soil Analysis and Testing: Understanding your soil’s pH and nutrient levels can be crucial in developing a tailored care regimen for your trees.
Tasks Homeowners Can Undertake:
- Mulching: Mulch serves as an insulating layer for the soil, helping to maintain consistent moisture and temperature levels around the tree.
- Watering Regimen: Pay special attention to younger trees, providing ample water before the ground starts to freeze.
- Leaf and Debris Removal: Keeping your garden clean can mitigate the risk of fungal infections and deter harmful pests.
- Regular Visual Inspection: Make a habit of inspecting your trees for visual cues of health issues, such as unusual leaf discolouration or bark texture.
- Planting New Trees: Late summer and early autumn offer the perfect soil conditions for planting new trees, allowing time for root establishment before winter.
It’s Time to Act: Don’t Delay Your Tree Maintenance
Given the erratic and sometimes severe weather conditions of the UK’s autumn months, taking early action is imperative. A proactive approach now can prevent potential disasters later, be they financial, aesthetic, or even sentimental in nature.
To secure the long-term health and beauty of your trees, we invite you to book a quote online at Book an Appointment, our preferred method for efficient scheduling. For those who have specific questions or need additional information, feel free to email us at info@abouttrees.co.uk
By taking proactive steps today, you can ensure the long-term health and aesthetic appeal of your domestic landscape. Trust About Trees to provide expert care that will keep your trees thriving through this autumn and many more to come.
Working at Height
This policy is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all employees engaged in tree work at height. It applies to all tree surgery operations carried out by About Trees Ltd.
- Adhere to the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and other relevant HSE guidelines.
- Stay updated with any changes in legislation or best practices in arboriculture and tree surgery.
- Conduct thorough risk assessments for every project, as recommended by both HSE and the Arboricultural Association’s Code of Practice.
- Implement a systematic approach to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks associated with working at height.
- Ensure all staff are adequately trained and competent in line with HSE requirements, including specific training for working at height.
- Provide regular training updates and refresher courses to maintain high safety standards.
- Comply with HSE guidance on the selection, use, and maintenance of equipment for working at height, including personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment used for tree work at height.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for various tree work activities, including those highlighted in the Industry Code of Practice.
- Review and update SOPs regularly to incorporate new techniques and safety guidelines.
- Establish and regularly update emergency response plans, including aerial rescue protocols.
- Ensure easy access to first aid equipment and trained personnel on every site.
- Prioritise physical and mental health by providing support for work-related stress and physical strain associated with tree work at height.
- Integrate environmental considerations into operational planning, ensuring minimal ecological impact and compliance with environmental laws.
- Implement a robust incident reporting system and conduct thorough investigations into any incidents to identify root causes and prevent recurrence.
- Maintain high standards of quality in all tree work at height.
- Engage with customers to provide transparent information about operational procedures and safety measures.
- Regularly review the effectiveness of the working at height policy and practices.
- Encourage feedback from employees to continuously improve safety standards.
Wildlife and Ecology
About Trees Ltd is committed to sustainable Arboricultural practices, environmental responsibility, and the protection of wildlife and ecology in all our tree care operations. This policy reflects our dedication to these principles, aligning with current directives and best practices in the United Kingdom.
This policy applies to all tree care operations carried out by About Trees Ltd within the United Kingdom.
About Trees Ltd is dedicated to preventing harm to wildlife and the environment as a result of our tree care activities. We will proactively safeguard European protected species, bats, nesting birds, and other local wildlife.
Before commencing tree care work on any site where there is a potential risk to protected species or local wildlife, we will conduct comprehensive wildlife assessments.
Our tree care methods will be meticulously planned and executed to minimise environmental risks to the lowest practicable level, incorporating current best practices.
About Trees Ltd is committed to fostering a working culture that encourages responsible conservation practices among our tree care professionals and partners.
When specific environmental interface issues are identified before, during, or after our tree care operations, we will actively seek guidance from qualified ecologists or other specialists.
Our company is dedicated to adhering to not only legal requirements but also industry best practices related to wildlife and ecology protection in the UK.
To fulfil our commitment to wildlife and ecology protection, About Trees Ltd sets the following objectives:
- Strictly adhere to all relevant wildlife and ecological legislation, guidance, and best practices in the UK.
- Remain proactive in staying updated on and implementing current directives related to wildlife and ecology protection.
- Continually promote a working culture that champions responsible conservation practices in the Arboricultural industry.
- Contribute to the responsible management of local ecology.
- Identify and safeguard wildlife populations in areas where tree care operations are conducted.
We will provide ongoing training and education to our employees on wildlife and ecological best practices in the field. We actively encourage our clients to participate in our efforts to protect local wildlife and ecology during tree care operations.
This policy will be communicated to all individuals working for or on behalf of About Trees Ltd, ensuring broad awareness and adherence to our commitment to wildlife and ecology protection. We will regularly review and update this policy to remain aligned with the latest directives and best practices.
Health and Safety Policy
About Trees Ltd is a tree surgeon carrying a full Health & Safety Policy for all projects covering Kent.
Tree surgery often means working at heights with ropes and chainsaws, this can be a very dangerous job; we take this extremely seriously and have measures in place to reduce these risks as much as possible.
All of About Trees Ltd staff are fully trained and qualified in the arboricultural sector, on any given contract we will have at least one member of ground-staff who can perform an aerial rescue in case the climber gets in to trouble. A rescue kit is carried at all times.
We will carry out a thorough Risk assessment prior to works commencing and have method statements detailing how we will approach the job in hand.
Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.) is issued to all staff; this includes chainsaw protective boots, trousers, and helmets with ear defenders and eye protection.
An ethos of methodical practice is encouraged.
About Trees Ltd - Health and Safety Policy
Date: JAN 2024
About Trees Ltd is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of its employees, contractors, clients, and the public. We recognise that Arboricultural work involves inherent risks and hazards, and we are dedicated to implementing the latest health and safety directives and guidelines, including PUWER and LOLER, to mitigate these risks. This Health and Safety Policy outlines our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of health and safety in all our activities.
About Trees Ltd will adhere to all relevant health and safety legislation, including but not limited to:
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).
- Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.
- Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.
We will also stay updated on any new legislation and guidance from authoritative bodies, such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Arboricultural Association, Arboriculture and Forestry Advisory Group (AFAG), and Forestry Industry Safety Accord (FISA), and incorporate them into our practices.
3.1. Management Commitment
The management of About Trees Ltd is committed to providing leadership, resources, and support for the implementation of this Health and Safety Policy. They will ensure that adequate resources are available to meet our health and safety objectives.
3.2. Employees and Contractors
All employees and contractors are responsible for their health and safety, as well as the safety of others affected by their work. They must comply with the company's health and safety procedures, including PUWER and LOLER compliance, report hazards, and actively participate in training programs.
About Trees Ltd will identify, assess, and manage risks associated with our activities, including equipment-related risks in compliance with PUWER and LOLER. This includes conducting regular risk assessments and implementing control measures to eliminate or reduce risks. Risk assessments will be reviewed and updated as necessary.
We will ensure that all employees and contractors have the necessary skills and competence to perform their tasks safely, especially when it comes to using equipment covered by PUWER and LOLER. Training will be provided, and records of training and qualifications will be maintained.
Safe working procedures will be established for all activities, considering guidance from HSE, AFAG, FISA, and the Arboricultural Association, including specific procedures related to the use and maintenance of equipment in compliance with PUWER and LOLER. These procedures will be communicated to all employees and contractors.
Appropriate PPE, including equipment-specific PPE, will be provided and maintained for all tasks where necessary. Employees and contractors will be required to wear PPE as specified in our procedures and guidelines.
All incidents, accidents, near misses, and potential hazards must be reported immediately to management. We will investigate incidents thoroughly to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
About Trees Ltd will have emergency procedures in place for responding to accidents, fires, and other emergencies. Employees and contractors will be familiar with these procedures.
We are committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance, including PUWER and LOLER compliance. We will regularly review our policies, procedures, and practices to identify areas for improvement.
This Health and Safety Policy will be communicated to all employees, contractors, clients, and relevant stakeholders. It will be displayed prominently on our premises and website.
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, industry standards, and best practices.
Authorised by Management
Wayne Elwell (Director)
JAN 2024
Insurance
At about…trees we are a professional, insured tree surgeons Kent. This means we take our responsibilities seriously, we carry full Arboricultural public liability insurance of £5million, employers liability of £10milliion (certificates available upon request).
We are members of both the Arboricultural Association and the International Society of Arboriculture, and we follow all the relevant British Standards guidelines and follow advice from industry bodies such as AFAG/FISA and LANTRA.
