Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van West Hampstead

Man with Van West Hampstead is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our customers, our team members and any third parties who may be affected by our activities. This Health and Safety Policy applies to all removal and transport services we provide, including home moves, office moves, collections and deliveries across our service area.

Our Health and Safety Objectives

Our primary objectives are to prevent injury, ill health and damage to property during every stage of a move or transport job. We aim to identify risks in advance, implement sensible control measures and continually improve our practices so that our work is carried out in the safest possible manner.

We comply with relevant health and safety legislation and industry best practice for removal and transport activities. All staff are expected to co operate with this policy and take personal responsibility for working safely and respectfully at all times.

Management Responsibilities

Management is responsible for establishing, maintaining and reviewing this Health and Safety Policy. This includes assessing the risks associated with lifting, carrying, loading, unloading and driving, and putting in place suitable measures to control those risks.

We ensure that staff are properly trained, provided with appropriate equipment, and informed about safe systems of work. Management monitors incidents, near misses and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions where required.

Employee Responsibilities

Every team member has a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of people who may be affected by their actions. Staff must follow all safety instructions, use equipment correctly and report any defects, hazards, incidents or near misses immediately to management.

Employees must not work under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any substance that may impair judgement or performance. Any medical conditions that could affect safe working or driving must be disclosed so that suitable adjustments and controls can be considered.

Risk Assessment and Planning

Before each job, we consider the specific risks associated with the property, access routes, items to be moved, traffic conditions and any special customer requirements. Where appropriate, a site visit or detailed discussion is carried out in advance so we can plan safe methods of work and allocate sufficient time, staff and equipment.

We take into account factors such as staircases, narrow doorways, parking restrictions, long carrying distances and heavy or fragile items. When risks cannot be eliminated, they are reduced as far as reasonably practicable through planning, communication and the use of suitable tools and techniques.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a key element of removal work, and we take particular care to reduce the risk of strain and injury. Staff are trained in correct lifting techniques, including team lifting, using the legs rather than the back, keeping loads close to the body and avoiding sudden twisting movements.

Where possible, we use handling aids such as trolleys, dollies, straps and blankets to move heavy or bulky items safely. Loads are assessed before lifting to ensure they are stable, secure and within the capability of the team. Extremely heavy or specialist items may require additional personnel or equipment, and we reserve the right to refuse moves that cannot be carried out safely.

Use of Vehicles

Our vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition and subject to regular checks. Drivers are responsible for performing basic daily inspections, such as checking tyres, lights and load security, and reporting any defects immediately so they can be addressed before further use.

All loads are secured to prevent movement during transit, using appropriate straps and protective materials. Drivers must observe all traffic laws, speed limits and parking regulations, and plan routes to minimise risk, congestion and unnecessary reversing where possible.

Working at Height and Use of Equipment

Where access involves steps, ramps or other changes in level, staff must take extra care to prevent slips, trips and falls. Any portable steps or equipment used are to be checked before use and set up on stable surfaces only.

Equipment must be used solely for its intended purpose and in accordance with training and instructions. Damaged or faulty tools and accessories must not be used and must be reported without delay so that they can be repaired or replaced.

Protecting Customers, Public and Property

We recognise our responsibility to protect customers, visitors, neighbours and other members of the public who may be affected by our work. Staff are instructed to work tidily, keep access routes as clear as reasonably practicable and communicate with customers about any temporary hazards, such as trailing straps or ramps.

We take care to protect property including walls, floors, doors and furniture by using appropriate covers, pads and blankets. Items are handled with respect and positioned safely, avoiding blocking fire exits, walkways or access to essential services.

Incident Reporting and Investigation

All accidents, injuries, near misses and cases of damage are to be reported to management as soon as possible. We investigate incidents to identify causes and implement changes to prevent recurrence. Lessons learned are shared with relevant staff and used to update training, procedures and this policy where necessary.

Training, Information and Supervision

Staff receive appropriate induction and ongoing training covering manual handling, vehicle safety, hazard awareness, safe use of equipment and customer care. Additional training is provided when new equipment is introduced or when changes to procedures are made.

Supervision is provided in proportion to the experience and competence of staff and the risks associated with the work. New or less experienced team members are closely supported until they are able to work safely and confidently.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Man with Van West Hampstead is committed to continually improving health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly, and whenever there are significant changes in our operations, equipment or legal requirements. Updated versions are communicated to all staff to ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

By following this Health and Safety Policy, we aim to provide a reliable, professional and safe removal and transport service for all customers across our operating area.