Health and Safety policy
Man and a Van Haringey Health and Safety Policy
Man and a Van Haringey is committed to maintaining the highest practicable standards of health and safety for our team members, customers and the general public. This policy sets out our approach to planning and carrying out removals and related services in a way that reduces risk, prevents injury and protects property and the environment.
Health and safety is an integral part of how we manage and deliver our work, from initial booking and planning through to loading, transport and unloading at the final destination.
Our Health and Safety Objectives
The main objectives of this Health and Safety Policy are to:
Identify and manage the significant risks associated with removal and moving services.
Provide safe equipment, vehicles and systems of work.
Ensure that all staff are competent to carry out their duties safely.
Prevent accidents, injuries and work related ill health.
Protect customers, members of the public and anyone else affected by our activities.
Comply with applicable health and safety legislation and relevant industry guidance.
Management Responsibilities
Management is responsible for providing clear leadership and resources for health and safety. This includes:
Implementing and maintaining this policy and reviewing it regularly.
Ensuring that risk assessments are carried out and updated when work practices or conditions change.
Providing information, instruction, training and supervision to all team members.
Ensuring that vehicles, equipment and lifting aids are properly maintained, inspected and suitable for the tasks undertaken.
Investigating any accidents, incidents or near misses and taking appropriate corrective action.
Employee Responsibilities
Every member of our team has a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. All staff are expected to:
Follow the procedures and safe systems of work set out by the company.
Use equipment, vehicles and personal protective equipment correctly and for their intended purpose.
Report hazards, defects, accidents, near misses and unsafe practices without delay.
Attend and participate in health and safety training and toolbox talks.
Cooperate with supervisors and managers to enable the company to meet its legal and moral health and safety obligations.
Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work
Before each job, we assess the specific risks at the collection and delivery locations and during transport. Typical considerations include:
Access routes, stairs, lifts and parking arrangements.
Weight, size and shape of items to be moved.
Use of lifting equipment such as trolleys and straps.
Potential trip hazards, poor lighting or uneven ground.
Weather conditions and their effect on loading and unloading.
Presence of vulnerable people, pets or members of the public.
Findings from risk assessments are used to establish safe systems of work, including the number of team members required, the equipment needed and the sequence in which tasks are carried out.
Manual Handling and Use of Equipment
Manual handling is a significant part of removal work. To reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries our approach includes:
Providing training on correct lifting and carrying techniques.
Planning routes to avoid unnecessary carrying and awkward movements.
Using appropriate handling equipment such as dollies, sack trucks, lifting straps and blankets wherever possible.
Encouraging team lifting for heavy or awkward items and refusing to move items that present an unacceptable risk.
Ensuring that equipment is in good condition and stored safely when not in use.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
Our vehicles are a central part of our service and are maintained to a high standard to ensure safety on the road. We are committed to:
Regularly inspecting and servicing vehicles in line with manufacturer guidance and legal requirements.
Ensuring that loads are properly distributed, secured and covered as necessary.
Requiring drivers to hold the appropriate driving licence and to follow safe driving practices at all times.
Planning routes and schedules that allow for realistic travel times and adequate rest breaks.
Checking that access for vehicles is safe and appropriate for the size and weight of the van used.
Protection of Customers and the Public
We take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of customers, neighbours and members of the public when we are working at or near their premises. Measures may include:
Maintaining clear walkways and keeping doors and stairs free from obstructions.
Using warning signs or verbal warnings where there is risk from moving items or vehicles.
Positioning vehicles to minimise risk to pedestrians and other road users, while following parking rules.
Handling customer belongings carefully to avoid damage and reduce the risk of injury from broken or unstable items.
Training, Information and Supervision
We provide appropriate training and supervision to ensure that staff can work safely and competently. This includes:
Induction training on company health and safety procedures.
Manual handling and lifting techniques specific to removal work.
Safe loading and securing of goods in vehicles.
Use and care of protective equipment and handling aids.
Ongoing refreshers, toolbox talks and guidance when new risks, equipment or working methods are introduced.
Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
All accidents, incidents, near misses and property damage must be reported to management as soon as possible. Reports are recorded, investigated and used to improve future safety performance.
Emergency arrangements are in place for dealing with incidents such as personal injury, fire, spillage of materials, or road traffic accidents. Staff are trained to raise the alarm promptly, seek medical assistance when needed and follow agreed emergency procedures.
Review of this Policy
This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly and updated whenever there are significant changes to our operations, relevant legislation or best practice guidance. We are committed to continuous improvement and welcome feedback from staff and customers on ways to enhance safety during our removal services.
By implementing this policy, Man and a Van Haringey aims to deliver a reliable, efficient and safe service for every move we undertake.
