Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Stockwell

Man with Van Stockwell is committed to providing a safe, healthy and professional removal service for our customers, employees, contractors and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with domestic and commercial removals, including packing, loading, transport and unloading of goods.

Our Commitment to Health and Safety

We recognise that removal operations involve physical work, vehicle movements, heavy and awkward loads, and work in a variety of properties and environments. Our policy is to prevent accidents, injuries and ill health by planning work carefully, training our team, supplying suitable equipment and encouraging a strong safety culture throughout the business.

Management is responsible for ensuring that appropriate resources are provided to maintain safe working conditions and that all activities are carried out in accordance with relevant health and safety legislation and industry best practice. All staff are expected to cooperate fully with this policy and take reasonable care of themselves and others who may be affected by their actions.

Responsibilities

Management will:

Provide clear instructions and information on safe working methods for all stages of the removal process. Ensure that risk assessments are conducted and reviewed regularly. Supply suitable work equipment, including vehicles, lifting aids and protective gear, and see that it is maintained in a safe condition. Arrange appropriate training and supervision for staff. Investigate accidents, incidents and near misses with the aim of preventing recurrence.

Employees and contractors must:

Follow all safety procedures and instructions relevant to their work. Use equipment and vehicles correctly and report any defects immediately. Take care when lifting, carrying and moving items, using proper manual handling techniques. Wear any personal protective equipment provided when required. Report hazards, unsafe conditions or incidents to management without delay.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Before each removal job, we assess potential risks related to access routes, parking, stairways, lifts, weather conditions, fragile items and any special requirements at the property. Where necessary, we adjust our methods, staffing levels and equipment to complete the work safely and efficiently.

Safe working practices include planning the order of loading and unloading, avoiding overloading trolleys or vehicles, maintaining clear walkways, and using lifting aids where appropriate. We take particular care when working in shared areas or near pedestrians, ensuring that our team is alert to people moving in and out of the property.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a key part of removal work, and we are committed to reducing the risk of strains, sprains and other musculoskeletal injuries. All staff receive guidance on correct lifting techniques, including assessing the weight and shape of items, lifting with a stable stance, bending the knees and avoiding twisting while carrying loads.

Where possible, heavy or bulky items are carried by two people or with the aid of equipment such as dollies, trolleys or sliders. Staff are encouraged to decline to lift or move an item alone if they believe it presents a risk to their health or to others. No employee is expected to exceed safe lifting limits.

Vehicle Safety and Loading

Our vehicles are inspected and maintained regularly to ensure they are roadworthy and suitable for removal work. Drivers hold appropriate licences and are responsible for operating vehicles safely and in accordance with road traffic laws.

Loading is planned to ensure that goods are secured, evenly distributed and protected from damage. We use straps, blankets and other securing methods to prevent loads from shifting during transit. Walkways within the vehicle are kept clear to reduce the risk of slips and trips when loading and unloading.

Protection of Customers and the Public

The safety of our customers and the general public is a priority during all removal operations. We take care to minimise disruption in shared spaces, on pavements and near roads. Access routes are kept as clear as reasonably possible, and we avoid leaving items or equipment unattended where they could cause obstruction or harm.

We treat customers premises with respect, taking steps to prevent damage to floors, walls and fixtures by using appropriate coverings and handling methods. Our team is instructed never to block fire exits or emergency routes and to be aware of any specific safety requirements at each property.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Gear

Man with Van Stockwell provides suitable equipment for removal work, such as trolleys, straps, ramps and protective materials. All equipment is checked regularly and removed from service if any defects are found. Staff are trained in the correct use of each item to prevent misuse or accidents.

Where the work environment or specific tasks require it, personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety footwear or high visibility clothing is provided. Employees are required to use this equipment properly and to look after it, reporting any loss or damage.

Training, Information and Supervision

We believe that good training is essential for safe and efficient removals. New staff receive an introduction to our health and safety procedures, safe lifting techniques, vehicle safety rules and customer service standards. Ongoing guidance and supervision are provided, especially for complex or high risk moves.

Information about risks and safe methods of work is communicated clearly to all staff. Supervisors and experienced team members are encouraged to lead by example, reinforce safe behaviours and support colleagues in following this policy.

Accident Reporting and Continuous Improvement

All accidents, injuries, near misses and damage incidents are recorded and reviewed so that we can learn from them and improve our practices. Where necessary, we update risk assessments, working methods or training content to reduce the likelihood of similar events occurring in the future.

We are committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. This policy is reviewed regularly and may be updated to reflect changes in legislation, guidance or the nature of our removal services. Our aim is to ensure that every move carried out by Man with Van Stockwell is completed as safely and responsibly as possible.