Health & Safety Policy for Driveway and Patio Cleaning

Purpose: This policy sets out the safety standards and procedures for driveway and patio cleaning services delivered by our gardening and exterior maintenance teams. It aims to protect staff, clients, visitors and the public when carrying out driveway cleaning, patio pressure washing and associated outdoor surface maintenance. The policy covers risk assessment, training, equipment, safe systems of work and environmental controls for all types of driveway and patio treatment.

Scope and Principles

The policy applies to all employees and contractors engaged in driveway & patio cleaning, including power washing, chemical cleaning, soft washing and manual scrubbing. Our approach is built on the following principles: plan work to eliminate hazards where possible, control risks that cannot be eliminated, provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintain clear communication with customers and team members. All activities must comply with industry best practice and the duty to provide a safe working environment.

Risk Assessment & Method Statements

Prior to any job, a documented risk assessment and method statement must be completed for the specific driveway or patio cleaning task. This should identify surface type, boundary features, access limitations, pedestrian and vehicle movement, drainage and adjacent soft landscaping. Controls must address slips, trips and falls, water runoff and chemical exposure. The method statement should describe pressure washing procedures, chemical dilution, containment measures and waste disposal arrangements.

Roles, Responsibilities and Competence

Managers are responsible for implementing this health and safety policy, ensuring staff are trained and carrying out supervision and monitoring. Operatives delivering patio cleaning and driveway maintenance must be competent, hold any necessary equipment certifications and be briefed on specific site hazards before starting work. Subcontractors must follow the same safety expectations and provide evidence of competence.

Training, Instruction and Supervision

All personnel must receive appropriate training in safe use of pressure washers, surface cleaners, chemical handling and spill control. Training covers equipment operation, correct nozzle selection, water pressure settings for different surfaces, and safe techniques for patio and block paving cleaning. Records of training and periodic refreshers must be maintained. Supervision should be proportionate to risk and experience of the operative.

Key training topics include:

• PPE selection and correct use (gloves, eye protection, non-slip footwear, hearing protection)
• Chemical safety – reading safety data sheets, mixing and storage
• Equipment checks – pre-start inspections and maintenance logging
• Traffic and public safety – cordoning, signage and diversion

Equipment, Chemicals and Environmental Controls

All pressure washers and ancillary tools must be maintained in good condition and inspected before use. Hoses, nozzles and fittings should be checked to prevent sudden failure. Chemicals used for driveway and patio cleaning must be suitable for the surface, biodegradable where possible and stored securely. Operators must avoid run-off into storm drains and protect planting by using containment, absorbents and neutralisers as required.

PPE and Safe Systems of Work

PPE is mandatory for cleaning tasks that carry risk of splash, spray, or flying debris. Typical PPE includes eye protection, chemical-resistant gloves, waterproof over-trousers, respiratory protection when using aerosols, and high-visibility clothing if working near traffic. Implement safe work steps: isolate the work area, post clear signage, use low-pressure techniques on delicate surfaces, and follow correct wash-down and rinse procedures to minimise damage and contamination.

When using driveway/patio pressure washing, operatives must maintain a safe distance, work from stable ground and avoid directing jets at people, pets or fragile structures.

Site Management, Public Safety and Traffic

Before starting a job, identify pedestrian routes and vehicle access. Use barriers, cones and warning signs to keep the public at a safe distance. Where appropriate, provide clear instructions to property occupants and coordinate any temporary access restrictions. For properties on busy streets, implement additional traffic management measures to protect operatives and road users.

Emergency Procedures and Incident Reporting

All staff must be familiar with emergency procedures including first aid, chemical spill response, and how to summon assistance. Chemical spills must be contained immediately and reported to management. All accidents, near misses and environmental incidents should be recorded, investigated and followed by corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Monitoring, Records and Continuous Improvement

We will monitor compliance through routine inspections, toolbox talks and review of training records. Records of risk assessments, method statements, equipment maintenance and incident reports will be retained and reviewed periodically. This policy will be updated in response to legislative changes, technological advances and lessons learned from incident investigations. A commitment to continuous improvement ensures our driveway and patio cleaning services remain both effective and safe for everyone involved.