Health and Safety policy
Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Forest Gate
Man with Van Forest Gate is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our team members, customers, visitors and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with domestic and commercial removals, loading and unloading, transport, and related services in our operating area.
Policy Aims and Scope
The aim of this policy is to prevent accidents, injuries and work-related ill health arising from our activities. It applies to all staff, including permanent, temporary and casual workers, as well as contractors working on our behalf. We expect all workers to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions.
This policy covers work carried out in customers homes and premises, in public spaces, during driving and roadside operations, and at any storage or loading locations we use as part of our removal services.
Management Responsibilities
Management is responsible for implementing and maintaining effective health and safety arrangements. This includes assessing risks, providing appropriate training, supplying safe equipment, and monitoring compliance with this policy.
Management will ensure that health and safety considerations are built into planning for every removal or transport job. Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for communicating safety procedures to staff on site and ensuring that work is carried out in a safe and controlled manner.
Employee Responsibilities
All employees and workers are required to cooperate fully with this policy and any related procedures. Each person must:
• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety.
• Consider the safety of customers, colleagues and the public.
• Follow training and safe systems of work at all times.
• Use equipment and vehicles only as instructed and in a safe manner.
• Report hazards, near misses, incidents and injuries promptly to management.
• Wear appropriate clothing and any necessary personal protective equipment where required.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We carry out risk assessments for our typical activities, including lifting and carrying, use of moving equipment, vehicle loading, and access into and out of premises. For unusual jobs or higher risk environments, additional specific risk assessments may be completed before work starts.
Safe working procedures are based on these assessments and are communicated to all staff. Where conditions change on the day, staff are trained to pause work, reassess the risks and, if needed, contact management before proceeding.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is a significant part of removal work, and we take particular care to control the risks of strains, sprains and back injuries. Our approach includes:
• Providing training in correct lifting and carrying techniques.
• Encouraging team lifting for heavy or awkward items.
• Using trolleys, dollies, straps and other handling aids where appropriate.
• Planning routes in and out of properties to avoid unnecessary lifting and to reduce obstacles and trip hazards.
• Refusing to move items that cannot be lifted safely with the people and equipment available.
Employees are instructed not to take shortcuts that could compromise their safety or that of others, even if jobs are time-sensitive.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
All vehicles used for our removal services must be roadworthy, regularly maintained and suitable for the loads carried. Drivers must hold the appropriate licences and follow all road traffic laws.
Key requirements include:
• Daily visual checks of tyres, lights, mirrors and general vehicle condition.
• Safe loading and unloading, with even weight distribution and secure restraint of items.
• No overloading of vehicles beyond their rated capacity.
• Adherence to speed limits and safe driving practices in all areas.
• Avoiding the use of mobile phones and other distractions while driving.
Drivers are encouraged to plan routes to minimise stress, delays and complicated manoeuvres where possible.
Working at Customers Premises
When working at customers homes or business locations, we act with respect and caution to protect both people and property. This includes:
• Conducting a quick on-site assessment of access routes, stairways and exits.
• Identifying and addressing any immediate hazards, such as loose flooring or poor lighting.
• Keeping walkways clear of boxes and equipment as far as reasonably practicable.
• Using suitable protection for floors, walls and doorways where necessary.
• Informing customers about any safety concerns that might affect the move.
Where conditions are unsafe or present unacceptable risks, the team will inform management and the customer so that alternative arrangements can be considered.
Equipment Safety and Maintenance
All tools, lifting aids, blankets and securing straps used in our work must be in good condition and suitable for their intended purpose. Damaged or defective equipment must not be used and should be reported immediately.
Management is responsible for arranging regular inspections, maintenance and replacement of equipment. Staff are trained in the correct set-up and use of equipment to reduce the risk of injury or damage.
Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work
We recognise that removal work can be physically demanding. Staff are encouraged to look after their health, stay hydrated and take reasonable breaks in line with work schedules.
Employees must not report for duty under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any other substance that could impair judgement or performance. Any medication that may affect the ability to drive or lift safely should be discussed with management before starting work.
Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
All accidents, injuries, near misses and dangerous occurrences must be reported to management as soon as possible. This allows us to provide appropriate support, investigate causes and take steps to prevent recurrence.
Staff are briefed on basic emergency procedures, including what to do in the event of fire, serious injury, road traffic collisions or sudden illness. Where necessary, emergency services must be contacted without delay, and the site or vehicle made as safe as reasonably possible.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Our Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective and relevant to our services and operating conditions. Reviews may be triggered by changes in legislation, new equipment or vehicles, feedback from staff and customers, or following any significant incident.
We encourage all members of the team to contribute ideas for improving safety, efficiency and the overall quality of our removal services. By working together, we aim to deliver a reliable, professional and safe man with a van service throughout our operating area.
