Health and Safety Policy

A scaffolding team working on a commercial building's safe and secure scaffolding structure.

At Wealden Construction Company, the health, safety and wellbeing of our employees, subcontractors, clients, visitors and members of the public are our highest priorities. We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy working environment across all construction activities in Wealden and the surrounding areas. We recognise that effective health and safety management is fundamental to the success of our business and is an integral part of every project we undertake.

Professional scaffolders ensuring the erection of scaffolding systems for site safety.

This Health and Safety Policy outlines our commitment to preventing work-related injuries, ill health and accidents through effective planning, risk management, employee involvement and continual improvement.

Our Commitment

Wealden Construction Company is committed to:

  • Providing safe and healthy working conditions for all employees and contractors.
  • Complying with all applicable UK health and safety legislation, regulations and industry standards.
  • Preventing workplace accidents, injuries and occupational illnesses.
  • Identifying hazards and reducing risks through effective planning and risk assessments.
  • Providing appropriate information, instruction, training and supervision.
  • Consulting with employees on health and safety matters.
  • Regularly reviewing and improving our health and safety management systems.
  • Protecting members of the public who may be affected by our construction activities.

Management Responsibilities

Management is responsible for promoting a positive health and safety culture throughout the organisation. Senior management will:

  • Ensure suitable health and safety arrangements are implemented and maintained.
  • Allocate sufficient resources to manage health and safety effectively.
  • Carry out regular site inspections and audits.
  • Ensure all work activities are properly planned before commencement.
  • Investigate accidents, incidents and near misses to prevent recurrence.
  • Monitor compliance with company procedures and legal requirements.

Employee Responsibilities

A scaffolding team working on a commercial building's safe and secure scaffolding structure.

Every employee has an important role in maintaining a safe workplace. Employees are expected to:

  • Take reasonable care of their own health and safety.
  • Consider the safety of colleagues, visitors and members of the public.
  • Follow company policies, procedures and site rules.
  • Use tools, equipment and machinery safely.
  • Wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Report hazards, unsafe conditions and incidents immediately.
  • Participate in health and safety training when required.
  • Cooperate fully during safety inspections and investigations.

Risk Assessments

Suitable and sufficient risk assessments will be completed before work begins. These assessments will identify potential hazards, evaluate associated risks and establish suitable control measures. Risk assessments will be reviewed whenever work activities change or new hazards are identified.

Safe Systems of Work

Safe systems of work will be developed and communicated for activities that present significant risks. All employees and subcontractors must follow these procedures to minimise the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Construction Site Safety

Scaffolders installing access platforms on a construction site for safe project execution.

Construction sites present a variety of hazards. We are committed to maintaining safe working environments by ensuring:

  • Sites remain secure and well organised.
  • Access routes are clearly marked and maintained.
  • Working at height is properly planned and controlled.
  • Excavations are adequately protected.
  • Plant and machinery are inspected and operated by competent personnel.
  • Manual handling risks are reduced wherever possible.
  • Housekeeping standards are maintained throughout every project.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Suitable PPE will be provided where risks cannot be eliminated through other control measures. Employees and contractors must wear the required PPE appropriate to their work, including safety helmets, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear, gloves, eye protection and hearing protection where necessary.

Training and Competence

We believe that competent employees contribute significantly to safer workplaces. Appropriate induction, ongoing training and refresher courses will be provided to ensure employees possess the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out their duties safely.

Contractors and Subcontractors

Modern house design with rear extension in greenery.

All subcontractors working on behalf of Wealden Construction Company are expected to meet the same high standards of health and safety. Contractors will be selected based on competence and their commitment to safe working practices and must comply with all site-specific requirements.

Accident Reporting

All accidents, injuries, dangerous occurrences and near misses must be reported immediately. Incidents will be investigated promptly to identify root causes and implement corrective actions. Where required, incidents will be reported in accordance with the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).

Emergency Procedures

Emergency procedures will be established for every project and communicated to all personnel before work commences. Emergency arrangements will include fire procedures, evacuation routes, first aid provisions and emergency contact information.

First Aid

Suitable first aid arrangements will be maintained on all sites. Adequately stocked first aid kits and trained first aid personnel will be available to provide immediate assistance should an incident occur.

Fire Safety

builder checking the exterior

Fire prevention measures will be implemented across all workplaces and construction sites. Fire risks will be assessed regularly, appropriate extinguishers will be provided, and emergency exits will remain accessible at all times.

Environmental Considerations

Health and safety is closely linked with responsible environmental management. We are committed to reducing pollution, managing waste responsibly, controlling dust and noise, and protecting the surrounding environment throughout our construction activities.

Monitoring and Review

This Health and Safety Policy will be monitored regularly to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with current legislation. Reviews will be undertaken periodically and whenever significant changes occur within the business or relevant legal requirements.

Policy Statement

Wealden Construction Company is committed to fostering a proactive safety culture where every individual shares responsibility for maintaining safe working environments. Through careful planning, effective communication, continuous training and ongoing improvement, we aim to achieve the highest standards of health and safety across every project we deliver. You can also check out our privacy policy, warranty terms or our service terms for more information.