We have a 100% record on all aspects of Health and Safety. In an industry known for the potential of accidents we are
proud to pronounce this. The monitoring of work procedures, the first-rate equipment we use and the obligatory risk assessment
we always carry out are part of this. However, the single most important factor in the record we carry is the standard of
training our staff receive. Their skills, attitude and behaviour reflect this. Our staff are all minimum NVQ Level II
trained and hold NPTC qualifications. Any new staff taken on are always placed onto a training program to achieve these
minimum standards. We are licenced by the Environment Agency to carry waste.
Treescapes Gardening Services adheres to all of the following
legislation:
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All Arboriculture and Forestry Advisory Group (AFAG) guidelines
British Standard
3998 (1989) - Recommendations for tree work
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Provision
and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations
(LOLER) 1998
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992
Reporting
of Injuries Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 1989
Control of Substances Hazardous
to Health Regulations (COSHH)2002
Food and Environment Protection Act 1985
Manual
Handling Operations Regulations (1992)
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What are my responsibilities as a tree owner?
You are considered generally to be the owner of a tree if the tree is on your property. You have a responsibility to
ensure your tree does not cause damage or injury to others.
Also, the Highways Act 1980 requires that trees and other vegetation do not obstruct the passage of others (Minimum clearance
for pathways - 2.4m Minimum for vehicles 5.2m). Also they must not obstruct street lighting or signs.
Is it important that the company I use are insured?
YES - If you employ a company that is not insured you could be personally liable for any accidentand/or injury caused
whilst they are carrying out the work. Treescapes Gardening Services carry full Public & Employers Liability Insurance.
What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
Planning authorities protect trees by issuing TPO's. The issuing of a TPO makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop,
uproot, wilfully damage or destroy any protected tree(s) without first obtaining permission to do so. There are few exceptions
to this, such as when a tree is dead, dangerous or dying. We can apply and obtain permission for the work necessary on a
tree with a TPO on it as your agent.
What is a Conservation Area?
The Civic Amenities Act (1967) states Conservation Areas are, 'Areas of special architectural or historic appearance the
character and appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.' Trees in Conservation Areas are generally treated
as if they have been issued with TPO's. As most trees in a Conservation Area are automatically protected it is necessary
to obtain the councils approval before carrying any work out on them. If a company advises you don't need permission and
you think you may, CHECK. You as well as the company are liable for prosecution and/or a substantial fine. Treescapes Gardening
Services can check if your trees are in a Conservation Area, and also apply on your behalf for permission to carry out the
required work.
My neighbours tree overhangs my property. What can I do?
You are entitled to prune unprotected trees and hedges which overhang your property. You must offer to return to the
owner any timber or fruit. You may not trespass on your neighbour's land to do so.
Can I get a price for work over the phone?
NO - Every tree and garden is different. All sizes, all shapes, and all have their own features to be taken into consideration
before an estimate can be given. Our estimates are FREE and can be arranged at your convenience.