Health and Safety policy
Man with Van South Wimbledon Health and Safety Policy
This Health and Safety Policy sets out how Man with Van South Wimbledon manages risks to protect our workers, customers, members of the public, and property during all removal and transportation activities. Our aim is to deliver a reliable moving service while preventing accidents, injuries, and damage.
We recognise our responsibilities under applicable health and safety laws and regulations and are committed to continually improving our standards. This policy applies to all staff, contractors, and anyone acting on behalf of Man with Van South Wimbledon.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Management is responsible for putting in place appropriate systems, procedures, and resources to manage health and safety effectively. This includes assessing risks, providing training, maintaining vehicles and equipment, and monitoring performance.
All workers are required to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their work. Staff must follow all safety instructions, use equipment correctly, report hazards or incidents, and cooperate fully with health and safety measures.
Customers are asked to support safe working by informing us of any access issues, hazards, or special requirements that may affect loading, unloading, or driving conditions.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We identify and assess risks associated with our removal and transportation activities, including manual handling, working in confined or shared spaces, vehicle movements, use of equipment, and weather conditions. Where risks cannot be eliminated, we implement practical control measures to reduce them to the lowest reasonably practicable level.
Typical measures include planning each job in advance, allowing adequate time to work safely, using the right number of workers for the volume and weight of items, checking access routes, and adjusting work methods in response to on-site conditions.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Our work often involves lifting, carrying, and moving furniture, boxes, and equipment. To limit the risk of injury, staff are trained in safe manual handling techniques, such as assessing the load, using proper lifting posture, and avoiding twisting while carrying items.
Where possible, we use handling aids, such as trolleys or dollies, particularly for heavy or bulky items. Staff are instructed not to lift items that are beyond their capability or that present a significant risk of injury. Large or very heavy items may require additional personnel or special equipment.
Vehicles, Driving, and Road Safety
We are committed to safe vehicle operation as part of our removal services. Drivers must hold the correct driving licence for the vehicles they operate, follow all road traffic laws, and drive in a courteous and defensive manner.
Vehicles are inspected regularly to ensure they are roadworthy, clean, and appropriately loaded. Loads are secured to prevent movement during transit. Routes are planned to allow sufficient time, taking into account traffic, weather, and local access conditions, to avoid rushing or unsafe driving practices.
Drivers must not operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol, illegal substances, or any medication that impairs safe driving.
Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment
All equipment used for removals and transportation must be suitable for the task and maintained in safe working condition. Staff must check equipment before use and report any damage, defects, or concerns immediately so items can be repaired or taken out of service.
Where required, appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety footwear, or high-visibility garments, will be provided and must be worn as instructed. Staff are responsible for using this equipment correctly and caring for it properly.
Customer Premises and Public Safety
We take steps to ensure that our activities do not put customers, visitors, or members of the public at risk. Access routes, stairs, and doorways are checked for hazards, and items are moved carefully to avoid trips, slips, and falls.
Where necessary, we may temporarily restrict access to certain areas while heavy or large items are being moved. We aim to keep pathways as clear as possible and to minimise obstruction and noise.
Staff will take reasonable care to protect floors, walls, and fixtures and to prevent damage while working inside or around customer premises.
Health, Welfare, and Fitness for Work
We recognise that removal work can be physically demanding. Staff are encouraged to maintain good general health and fitness and to raise any concerns that may affect their ability to perform certain tasks safely.
No one should undertake work if they are unfit due to illness, fatigue, or the influence of alcohol or drugs. Where appropriate, tasks may be adjusted or reassigned to ensure the safety of the individual and others.
Training, Information, and Supervision
We provide appropriate training and information so that staff understand the risks associated with their work and know how to carry out tasks safely. This includes induction training, task-specific instruction, and refresher training where necessary.
Supervision is provided to ensure that safety procedures are followed, especially for new or less experienced workers. Changes in working practices or equipment will be communicated clearly to all affected staff.
Incident Reporting and Policy Review
All accidents, near misses, injuries, or dangerous occurrences must be reported as soon as possible. We will investigate incidents to identify root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly and updated when there are significant changes to our operations, relevant legislation, or identified risks. We are committed to continuous improvement and welcome feedback from staff and customers on any health and safety matters.
By following this policy, Man with Van South Wimbledon aims to provide a safe, responsible, and professional removal service for all customers within our service area.
