Prepare sites for landscape construction and installation

This standard is for those who prepare and install sites for both hard and soft landscape construction and installation.

If you are working with chemicals or machinery you should be trained and hold current certification where required in line with relevant legislation.

You must carry out your work in a way which will minimise the impact on the natural environment and enhance its nature, conservation and recreational value.

1. assess the risks associated with the landscape construction and installation site and the proposed work
2. confirm that suitable clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn
3. confirm tools, equipment and machinery for landscape construction and installation are used and maintained safely and correctly
4. interpret specifications and drawings for landscape construction and installation
5. check the working methods are established and clearly communicated to all those involved in preparing sites for landscape construction and installation
6. measure, mark and set out the landscape construction and installation site to meet specifications
7. form profiles that meet the specifications
8. prepare the surface according to specifications
9. confirm the landscape construction and installation site is tidy and in a suitable condition for subsequent works
10. maintain communication with colleagues and others involved in or affected by the work
11. confirm that the disposal of waste minimises environmental risk in accordance with relevant legal requirements
12. confirm that work is carried out in accordance with relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, risk assessment requirements, codes of practice and organisational policies

1. how to identify hazards and assess risks when preparing sites for landscape construction and installation
2. the type of clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable for the activity
3. the construction standards and regulations for operations involving changes of level
4. how to interpret landscape plans and specifications
5. the importance of programmes of work and timescales involved
6. the methods and equipment for setting out in the horizontal and vertical planes
7. the mathematical and geometrical principles for setting out landscape construction and installation sites
8. the calculation of gradients, risers and treads
9. the selection and safe use of equipment for excavation and landform operations
10. the methods of detecting underground services
11. how to handle, transport and dispose of waste in accordance with relevant legal and organisational requirements
12. the problems which may occur with preparing sites for landscape construction and installation and how to deal with them
13. the importance of maintaining communication with those involved in, or affected by, your work and how this should be done
14. the importance of following relevant environmental and ecological best practice to help minimise the impact of your work on the environment
15. your responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, codes of practice and organisational policies

A.      prepare landscape construction and installation sites for the following types of subsequent work:

1. soft landscape construction 
2. hard landscape construction

B.      prepare the following types of surfaces according to specification:

1. flat
2. gradient
3. steps

Specifications: drawings, schedules, method statements, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), manufacturers' guidelines, organisational policies.