Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Rotherhithe

Man with Van Rotherhithe is committed to providing removal and transport services in a safe, responsible, and legally compliant manner. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to protecting our workers, customers, members of the public, and anyone who may be affected by our activities.

Policy Statement

Our objective is to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property by identifying and managing risks associated with moving, loading, transporting, and unloading goods. We will comply with all relevant health and safety legislation, approved codes of practice, and industry guidance applicable to removal and light transport operations.

Health and safety is a core part of our day-to-day work. All staff and contractors must follow this policy and any supporting procedures. Management is responsible for providing appropriate resources, information, and supervision to ensure that our activities are carried out safely.

Responsibilities

Management is responsible for:

Planning and maintaining safe systems of work for removal and transport tasks.

Ensuring that vehicles and equipment are suitable, properly maintained, and used safely.

Providing staff with relevant information, instruction, and training.

Reviewing risk assessments and updating procedures when necessary.

Employees and contractors are responsible for:

Taking reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions.

Following all safety instructions, training, and procedures.

Using equipment correctly and reporting any defects or hazards immediately.

Reporting accidents, incidents, near-misses, and unsafe conditions without delay.

Risk Assessment and Planning

Before starting any removal or transport job, we will consider the specific risks involved, including access routes, parking arrangements, handling requirements, and any special hazards at the collection and delivery locations.

Where required, a formal risk assessment will be carried out to identify potential hazards and determine control measures. These may include the use of additional staff, mechanical aids, protective equipment, or adjustments to the sequence of work. Staff are expected to follow the findings of risk assessments and safe working procedures at all times.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a significant part of removal work and must be carried out correctly to avoid injury. We will provide guidance and training on safe lifting techniques and the correct use of any handling aids supplied.

Key principles include:

Assessing the weight, size, and stability of items before attempting to lift or move them.

Using team lifts or mechanical aids for heavy or awkward items.

Maintaining good posture, avoiding twisting while lifting, and keeping loads close to the body.

Refusing to lift or move items that are unsafe or beyond an individual’s capability.

Customers may be advised if an item cannot be moved safely or requires additional resources.

Vehicle Safety and Loading

Our vehicles will be operated in a safe and roadworthy condition. Drivers are responsible for completing basic checks and reporting defects immediately so they can be addressed before further use.

When loading and unloading, we will:

Distribute loads evenly to maintain vehicle stability.

Secure items using straps, blankets, or other suitable restraints to prevent movement in transit.

Avoid overloading or exceeding the vehicle’s permitted weight limits.

Take particular care when working on or near roads, including the use of hazard warning lights and sensible parking choices where possible.

Working at Customer Properties

We will take reasonable steps to protect customers and their property while work is carried out. This includes:

Keeping walkways as clear as reasonably practicable.

Using appropriate methods to minimise damage, such as protective coverings where suitable.

Communicating clearly with customers about any access limitations, risks, or special precautions.

Ensuring that doors, gates, and access points are used safely and secured after work where necessary.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

Any tools, trolleys, lifting aids, or other equipment provided must be used only for their intended purpose and in accordance with provided instructions. Defective or damaged equipment must not be used and must be reported promptly.

Where personal protective equipment such as gloves or safety footwear is identified as necessary, it must be worn as directed. Staff are responsible for taking reasonable care of any equipment issued to them and reporting loss or damage.

Training, Information, and Supervision

We will ensure that employees receive appropriate induction and ongoing training relevant to their roles. This may include manual handling, safe loading, vehicle checks, and the correct use of equipment.

Information about specific risks and procedures for each job will be communicated before work begins where required. Where less experienced staff are involved, suitable supervision will be provided to make sure that work is carried out safely and to the required standard.

Accident and Incident Reporting

All accidents, injuries, near-misses, and damage to property occurring during our work must be reported at the earliest opportunity. This enables us to investigate causes, take corrective action, and update procedures where necessary.

Records of incidents and any necessary follow-up actions will be maintained, and learning from incidents will be shared with staff to help prevent recurrence.

Health, Fitness, and Welfare

Employees engaged in removal work must be physically capable of carrying out their duties safely. Staff are encouraged to inform management of any health conditions that may affect their ability to undertake certain tasks so that reasonable adjustments can be considered.

We do not tolerate working under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anyone suspected of being unfit for work for these reasons will be removed from duty immediately.

Policy Review

This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed periodically and whenever there are significant changes to our operations, services, or applicable legislation. Updated versions will be made available to staff and customers as required.

By engaging Man with Van Rotherhithe, customers can expect a service that places health, safety, and responsible working practices at the centre of every removal and transport task.