Health and Safety policy

Man with Van Homerton Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Homerton is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, subcontractors, customers and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with our removal and transport services, including loading, unloading, lifting, carrying and driving.

Our goal is to prevent injury, ill health, damage to property and disruption to our services by identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing sensible control measures in all locations where we operate.

Management Responsibility and Commitment

Health and safety are core elements of how we run our removal operations. Management is responsible for ensuring that appropriate systems and procedures are in place, that staff receive suitable training, and that equipment and vehicles are maintained in a safe condition.

We will review this policy regularly and update it when there are changes in legislation, industry best practice or the nature of our work. All managers and supervisors are expected to lead by example and promote a positive safety culture in every removal job.

Employee Responsibilities

Every employee and subcontractor working with Man with Van Homerton has a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. Team members must:

Follow all safety instructions, procedures and safe systems of work provided by the company. Use vehicles, equipment and personal protective equipment correctly and report any defects immediately. Co operate with managers and colleagues on health and safety matters, including attending training sessions. Report accidents, near misses, hazards and unsafe conditions without delay so that corrective action can be taken. Refrain from any behaviour that could place themselves, colleagues, customers or the public at risk.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

We carry out risk assessments for our key activities, including lifting and carrying items, loading and unloading vehicles, driving, and working in customer properties and shared areas. These assessments consider the type and weight of items, access routes, stairs, parking arrangements and any specific conditions at the collection or delivery address.

Control measures and safe working practices are implemented based on these assessments. Where necessary, we will adjust the number of staff assigned to a job, use additional equipment or amend the planned method of work to ensure the safety of all involved.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a significant aspect of our work as a removal company. To reduce the risk of strain, sprain and other injuries, Man with Van Homerton:

Provides manual handling training so that staff understand correct lifting techniques, team lifts and the importance of planning each move. Uses handling aids such as trolleys, dollies, straps and blankets where appropriate to reduce physical strain. Encourages staff to assess the load and route before moving any item and to request assistance or alternative methods when something is too heavy or awkward to move safely. Avoids unsafe practices such as rushing, twisting while carrying loads, or lifting items that exceed safe limits.

Vehicle, Driving and Road Safety

Our vehicles are essential to delivering reliable removal services and must be operated safely at all times. We are committed to:

Maintaining vehicles in a roadworthy condition through regular checks, servicing and prompt repair of defects. Ensuring that loads are packed, balanced and secured properly to prevent shifting during transit. Complying with road traffic laws, speed limits and parking regulations. Planning routes to minimise unnecessary risks, avoid unsuitable roads and allow adequate time for safe travel. Requiring drivers to be fit to drive, free from the influence of alcohol or drugs, and to take appropriate breaks on longer journeys.

Customer and Public Safety

We take steps to protect customers, neighbours and the general public when carrying out removals. Our teams are trained to maintain clear walkways, control trip hazards such as loose packing materials, and be aware of the presence of children, pets and vulnerable individuals.

Access routes will be assessed and used in a way that minimises disturbance and risk. Where necessary, we will agree with customers how best to manage shared spaces, lifts, corridors and entrances to keep everyone safe.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

Appropriate equipment is selected for each job to ensure safe and efficient work. Staff are trained in the correct use of removal tools, straps, protective coverings and mechanical aids. Personal protective equipment such as safety footwear and gloves is provided where required by risk assessment and must be used as instructed.

All equipment must be checked before use, used only for its intended purpose and taken out of service if any fault or damage is identified.

Accidents, Incidents and Near Misses

All accidents, incidents and near misses that occur during our removal activities must be reported to management as soon as possible. We will investigate these events to understand what happened, identify root causes and implement measures to prevent recurrence.

Records of accidents and investigations are maintained and reviewed to monitor trends and continuously improve our safety performance.

Training, Supervision and Communication

Man with Van Homerton ensures that staff receive appropriate induction and ongoing training relevant to their roles. This includes manual handling, safe driving practices, use of equipment and awareness of company health and safety procedures.

Supervision is provided in line with the experience and competence of team members. Health and safety expectations are communicated clearly, and staff are encouraged to raise any concerns or suggestions for improving safety at work.

Monitoring and Review

We monitor our health and safety performance through inspections, feedback from staff and customers, and review of incident reports. This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed periodically to ensure it remains suitable, effective and aligned with current regulations and best practice in the removals industry.

By following this policy and working together, Man with Van Homerton aims to deliver safe, efficient and professional removal services across our service area while protecting the wellbeing of everyone involved.