Health and Safety policy

Man with Van Hammersmith Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Hammersmith is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, customers and members of the public who may be affected by our removal and relocation services. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to preventing accidents, protecting property and ensuring that all work is carried out in a responsible and professional manner.

Our Health and Safety Commitments

We will plan and deliver all man and van and removal services in a way that minimises risk to people and property. We are committed to continually improving our health and safety performance through regular review, training and supervision. All employees and contractors are required to cooperate with this policy and follow safe systems of work at all times.

Legal Compliance and Responsibilities

Man with Van Hammersmith will comply with all relevant health and safety legislation and industry best practice for transport, lifting and handling activities. Management is responsible for ensuring that appropriate resources are provided to implement this policy. Every member of staff 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.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Before each job, our team considers the specific risks associated with the property, access, parking, routes and the items to be moved. Where necessary, a more detailed risk assessment is carried out to identify hazards and agree control measures. Our staff follow safe working practices for loading, unloading, securing loads, using equipment and moving items through homes, offices and communal areas.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Many removal tasks involve lifting, carrying and moving heavy or bulky items. To reduce the risk of injury, our staff are trained in safe manual handling techniques, including assessing the weight and shape of items, using correct posture, lifting as a team where appropriate and using equipment such as trolleys and straps. Employees must not attempt to lift items that exceed safe limits or that cannot be handled without risk.

Vehicles, Driving and Road Safety

Our vehicles are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition in line with manufacturer guidance and legal requirements. Drivers must hold the appropriate licence and are expected to drive safely, courteously and within speed limits at all times. Loads are secured to prevent movement during transit and doors are checked before departure. Drivers must not operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any medication that impairs their ability to drive safely.

Use of Equipment and Protective Gear

Where appropriate, our teams use handling equipment, protective coverings, tools and personal protective equipment to carry out work safely and protect customer property. Staff must inspect equipment before use and must not use damaged or defective items. Any faults or concerns must be reported immediately so that the equipment can be repaired or taken out of service.

Protection of Customers and the Public

During all moves, we take steps to protect customers, visitors and members of the public from hazards associated with our work. This may include managing access routes, keeping walkways clear, using safe lifting routes, and communicating with customers about any temporary risks. We aim to reduce noise, disruption and obstruction to neighbours and passers-by where reasonably practicable.

Safe Access, Housekeeping and Property Protection

Our team maintains good housekeeping standards when working on site. This includes keeping tools and packing materials tidy, avoiding trailing cables, and promptly removing waste and debris. We take care to avoid damage to floors, walls, doors and fixtures by using suitable protection and careful handling techniques. Any accidental damage or hazard identified during a job will be reported to the customer as soon as possible.

Training, Information and Supervision

All staff receive appropriate training in health and safety relevant to their role, including manual handling, use of equipment, vehicle safety and incident reporting. New employees are given an induction covering our key safety procedures. Supervisors are responsible for monitoring working practices on site and ensuring that staff follow agreed procedures.

Accidents, Incidents and Near Miss Reporting

All accidents, injuries, damage to property and near misses must be reported as soon as possible to management. This allows us to investigate the cause, take corrective action and reduce the likelihood of similar incidents in the future. Where required, incidents will be recorded and retained in line with legal and company requirements.

Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work

We recognise the physical nature of removal work and the importance of staff being fit for duty. Employees are encouraged to report any health issues that may affect their ability to carry out lifting and driving tasks safely. Staff must not work while unfit due to illness, fatigue, alcohol or drugs. Adequate breaks and access to drinking water are provided to support welfare during working hours.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains suitable and effective for the services offered by Man with Van Hammersmith. We take into account changes in legislation, industry standards, our own operational experience and feedback from employees and customers. Updates are communicated to staff and incorporated into our working procedures and training.

By following this policy, Man with Van Hammersmith aims to deliver reliable, efficient and safe removal services while protecting the wellbeing of everyone involved in or affected by our work.