Health & Safety

A safety-first culture backed by robust systems

At YGS Landscapes, health and safety is central to how we operate across commercial landscaping, grounds maintenance and site-based works.

We work in live construction environments, public spaces and operational commercial sites across Devon and Cornwall.

Structured Health & Safety Systems and Safe Working Practices

All works are planned and delivered using documented safe systems of work, supported by regular review and continual improvement through the PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check, Act).

This includes:

  • Detailed method statements for all work activities

  • Task-specific risk assessments for each operation

  • Regular review and updating of procedures and assessments

  • Clear communication of site-specific risks and controls

Our approach aligns with the requirements of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015), ensuring safe coordination and compliance on all relevant construction and building works.

These systems ensure risks are identified early, managed effectively and reviewed throughout the life of a project.

Induction, Training and Workforce Competence

Every member of staff completes a formal induction before starting work on any site.

This process covers:

  • Site rules and emergency procedures

  • Task-specific risks and controls

  • Safe use of equipment and machinery

  • Environmental and public-interface considerations

All operatives are trained and assessed on machinery before being permitted to use it, and competence is monitored on an ongoing basis.

Our workforce includes:

  • CSCS-certified operatives

  • Staff qualified to NEBOSH, IOSH, SMSTS and SSSTS standards

  • Ongoing training in health & safety, equipment use and skills development

PPE, COSHH and Equipment Safety Controls

We ensure all staff are provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the tasks they undertake and are trained in its correct use and maintenance.

For all chemicals and materials used on site, we provide:

  • COSHH assessments

  • Relevant safety data sheets

  • Clear guidance during site inductions

These assessments are reviewed annually alongside our risk assessments to ensure continued compliance and relevance.

All vehicles and machinery are regularly serviced, inspected and maintained in line with manufacturer guidelines, with documented inspection regimes in place.

Health & Safety Audits, Accreditation and Assurance

Our health & safety systems are externally verified and independently audited, providing assurance that our site practices, procedures and controls are regularly reviewed.

Our wider safety framework is supported by recognised industry memberships and external verification, including:

  • Long-standing BALI membership

  • SSIP accreditation through CHAS and SMAS

  • CQMS-supported compliance systems

We also undertake annual external audits of our health & safety systems, using findings to strengthen procedures, improve performance and support continual improvement.

Continuous Improvement in Health & Safety

Health & safety at YGS is continuously reviewed and improved. We:

  • Review incidents, near misses and observations

  • Update procedures and training accordingly

  • Engage staff in improving site safety and working practices

This proactive approach helps us maintain safe, well-managed sites and protect everyone involved in our work.

Planning a Landscaping Project Across Devon & Cornwall?

Whether you are planning a development, tendering works or reviewing long-term maintenance, our team would be pleased to help.

Commercial landscaping & grounds maintenance across Devon & Cornwall

Telephone: 01752 337710

Commercial Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance Across Devon & Cornwall | Established 1973
ISO 9001 · ISO 14001 · ISO 45001

YGS Landscapes Ltd, Elfordleigh Nursery, Larch Grove, Plymouth PL7 5EB

Email:  info@ygslandscapes.co.uk

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