Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van South Kensington

Man with Van South Kensington is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, customers and members of the public who may be affected by our removal and transport activities. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with moving, handling, transport, loading, unloading and working at domestic and commercial premises.

Our intention is to prevent accidents, injuries and work-related ill health by assessing and controlling risks, providing appropriate training and supervision, and continually improving our safety practices.

Policy Aims and Responsibilities

The overall responsibility for health and safety management within Man with Van South Kensington rests with the company management, who ensure adequate resources, information and support are provided to maintain high safety standards across all removal operations.

Supervisors and drivers are responsible for implementing this policy on a day-to-day basis, including the safe planning and execution of each job, the correct use of equipment, and the prompt reporting of hazards, incidents or near misses.

Every employee and contractor has a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. All staff are required to co-operate with the company in following safe systems of work, using equipment properly and reporting concerns without delay.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before starting work at any property or site, a suitable and proportionate risk assessment will be carried out. This assessment will consider access routes, parking and loading areas, stairways, lifts, floor surfaces, lighting, weather conditions, and any other factors that may present a risk during the move.

Where risks are identified, appropriate control measures will be implemented. These may include the use of mechanical aids, team lifts, protective equipment, revised routes, or changes to the timing of the work. Staff are required to follow the agreed safe system of work at all times and to stop work if they believe conditions are unsafe.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core element of removal activities and is recognised as a significant source of potential injury. Man with Van South Kensington will minimise manual handling risks by careful planning of each move, using trolleys, dollies and other aids where practicable, and ensuring that loads are kept as small and manageable as possible.

All team members will receive manual handling training appropriate to their role, including correct lifting technique, team lifting procedures, and safe handling of awkward, bulky or heavy items. Staff are instructed never to attempt to lift or carry items that exceed their individual capability or that cannot be moved safely using the team and equipment available.

Vehicles, Driving and Road Safety

Our vehicles are a key part of our service and will be maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition. Regular checks are carried out on brakes, tyres, lights, securing points and loading areas, and any defects are reported and rectified promptly.

Drivers are required to hold the correct licence, obey all road traffic laws, and drive with due care and attention at all times. Loads must be evenly distributed and securely fastened to prevent movement during transport. Drivers must not operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any medication that may impair their ability to drive safely.

Parking and loading are planned to minimise risk to pedestrians and other road users. Where necessary, a second team member will act as a banksman when reversing or manoeuvring in tight or busy areas.

Use of Equipment and Protective Measures

Equipment such as trolleys, straps, ramps, blankets and tools will be maintained in good condition and inspected regularly. Damaged or defective items must be taken out of use immediately and reported to management for repair or replacement.

Where required, staff will use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety footwear or high-visibility clothing. All equipment and protective items must be used in accordance with training and instructions.

Working at Customer Premises

Respect for customers and their property is central to how we operate. When working at domestic or commercial premises, our teams will maintain safe, tidy working areas, avoid blocking exits, and keep walkways as clear as reasonably possible.

Where there are particular site-specific hazards, such as fragile surfaces, low ceilings, uneven steps or shared access areas, these will be identified and managed as part of the on-site risk assessment. Customers will be advised of any safety concerns that could affect the move or access to their property.

Health, Welfare and Training

Man with Van South Kensington will provide information, instruction and training so that all staff understand their roles and responsibilities in relation to health and safety. This includes induction training for new starters and periodic refresher training to reinforce safe working practices.

We recognise the importance of physical and mental wellbeing in maintaining safe performance. Staff are encouraged to report any health concerns that may affect their ability to carry out removal work safely, including fatigue, injuries or conditions affecting mobility, strength or concentration.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, near misses and damage to property must be reported to management as soon as possible. Accurate records will be kept and reviewed to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

Emergency procedures, including what to do in the event of fire, serious injury, road traffic collision or sudden illness, will be communicated to staff. Employees must familiarise themselves with emergency exits, assembly points and first aid arrangements at each workplace or site.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

We are committed to continually improving our health and safety performance in all areas of our removal operations. Feedback from staff and customers is welcomed and will be considered when reviewing working practices, training needs and equipment requirements.

This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, industry standards, service areas or the nature of our work. Any significant changes will be communicated to all employees and contractors.

By following this policy, Man with Van South Kensington aims to deliver safe, reliable and professional removal services while protecting the wellbeing of our teams, our customers and the wider community.