Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Riddlesdown

Man with Van Riddlesdown 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 removals and transport activities. This Health and Safety policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with home and office moves, loading and unloading, driving, and handling goods.

Our objective is to prevent injury, ill health, damage to property and harm to the environment. Health and safety is an integral part of how we plan and deliver all man and van and removal services.

Responsibilities and Management Commitment

Overall responsibility for health and safety within Man with Van Riddlesdown rests with the company management, who will ensure that this policy is implemented, maintained and regularly reviewed. Managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting safe working practices, providing appropriate instruction, and monitoring compliance with this policy.

Every employee and contractor working on behalf of Man with Van Riddlesdown 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. All staff must follow safety instructions, use equipment correctly, report hazards or incidents, and co-operate in health and safety matters.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

We will conduct suitable and proportionate risk assessments for our operations, including packing, lifting, carrying, loading, unloading, driving and working at customers’ premises. These assessments will identify significant hazards and specify control measures to reduce risks so far as is reasonably practicable.

Safe systems of work will be developed for key activities, communicated to staff, and reviewed periodically or whenever there is a change in the nature of our services, equipment or work locations. Staff are expected to follow these procedures at all times and to raise any concerns if a task cannot be completed safely.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core element of our removal work, and we recognise the potential for injury if it is not managed properly. Man with Van Riddlesdown will:

Provide training on safe lifting techniques, including assessment of load weight, shape and stability, as well as personal capability and route planning.

Encourage the use of team lifting for heavy or awkward items and ensure that loads are shared appropriately.

Use suitable handling aids such as trolleys, dollies, straps and blankets where reasonably practicable.

Plan loading and unloading to minimise the need for hazardous manual handling operations.

Employees are required to avoid unsafe lifts, to ask for assistance when needed, and to stop work if they believe the task presents a serious risk of injury.

Vehicle and Transport Safety

Our vehicles are central to our service, and their safe operation is essential. We will maintain vehicles in a roadworthy condition, ensure they are suitable for the loads carried, and conduct regular checks and servicing in line with legal and manufacturer requirements.

Drivers must hold the appropriate valid driving licence and follow all road traffic laws. They are responsible for daily vehicle checks, reporting defects promptly, and not driving if the vehicle or load is unsafe. Drivers must never operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol, illegal substances or any medication that may impair driving ability.

Loads will be distributed and secured safely within vehicles to prevent movement, damage or risk to occupants and other road users. Tail lifts and ramps must be used in accordance with training and manufacturer instructions.

Working at Customers’ Premises

When operating at residential or commercial premises, we will take reasonable steps to protect both our staff and customers. This includes assessing access routes, stairs, doorways, flooring and outdoor areas for hazards such as slips, trips, poor lighting or obstructions.

Where necessary, we will use protective coverings for floors and furniture to reduce the likelihood of damage and to help maintain a tidy work area. Staff will be mindful of children, pets and other occupants and will work in a way that minimises disruption and risk to occupants and visitors.

Equipment, Tools and Personal Protective Equipment

Man with Van Riddlesdown will provide tools and equipment that are suitable for the tasks undertaken and maintain them in good working order. Staff are required to use equipment only for its intended purpose and to report any damaged or faulty tools immediately.

Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, high-visibility clothing or safety footwear, will be provided where a risk assessment identifies that it is necessary. Staff must use the protective equipment provided and take reasonable care of it.

Training, Information and Supervision

We will ensure that all staff receive appropriate induction and on-the-job training relevant to their role, including manual handling, safe driving practices, working at height where applicable, and the use of handling equipment.

Health and safety information will be communicated clearly, and refresher training will be provided when there are significant changes in our operations or where additional training is needed. Adequate supervision will be in place, particularly for new or inexperienced workers, to ensure that safety standards are maintained.

Accidents, Incidents and Near Miss Reporting

All accidents, injuries, dangerous occurrences and near misses must be reported to management as soon as possible. We will investigate such events to determine root causes, identify corrective actions and prevent recurrence.

Any work-related injuries or conditions that are reportable under applicable health and safety legislation will be notified to the relevant authorities in accordance with legal requirements. Records of incidents and investigations will be maintained.

Consultation and Continuous Improvement

Man with Van Riddlesdown is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. We will consult with staff on health and safety matters, encourage feedback on working practices, and consider suggestions for reducing risks and improving efficiency.

This Health and Safety policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, our operations, customer requirements or industry best practice. All staff will be informed of any significant changes to this policy or related procedures.

By working together and following this policy, Man with Van Riddlesdown aims to deliver reliable removal and man and van services while safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of everyone involved.