Independent standard setting and auditing organisation, BASIS, has launched a new standard aimed at the professional domestic lawn care sector.
The Lawn Assured Standard will help to ensure a consistent and high standard of practice in the professional lawn care sector.
Lindsay Smith Boam, BASIS logistics manager, explains that all individuals applying pesticides are expected to work sustainably, effectively and efficiently, in order to protect themselves, the general public and the environment.
“The new voluntary standard has been launched in response to industry demand, and aims to help domestic lawn care contractors demonstrate that they’re operating in a responsible manner to both the public and the regulatory authorities,” she says.
“The benchmarking standard will also help remove any variability across the sector, ensuring a consistent level of performance, as well as improving business credentials,” adds Lindsay.
“BASIS is encouraging, professionals to use the accreditation to prove and promote the quality and value of service to new and current customers.”
To become certified as a Lawn Assured, an organisation or company is expected to complete a self-audit, which covers key areas related to training and certification as well as health and safety regulations, and documentation, such as risk assessments.
Following completion, an on-site audit is required to verify the documentation and check compliance, and that the operator is working in a professional manner, in line with best practice.
Lindsay explains that although BASIS is not an enforcement body, the organisation aims to help companies to meet legal, regulatory and best practice standards. “Our assessment team is highly experienced and can advise and assist as part of the independent site-visit.”
Replies
It's great to hear Gary supporting the BASIS Lawn Assured scheme that we hope will become the industry standard for all lawn care companies so that, among other things, operators consistently achieve best practice for themselves, the general public and the environment. Gary eloquently summarises both the objectives and methodology but I would like to add that Lindsay Smith is speaking at the UK Lawn Care Association Conference at Wyboston Lakes on Friday the 2nd of February; we are expecting our Members to support the initiative and benefit from UK LCA membership. Speaking of promoting 'best practice', Professor John Moverley of the Amenity Forum will once again open our Conference on the 1st. If you want more Conference details, mail Simon at simon@uklawncare.net