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.”
