Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Maida Vale

Man with Van Maida Vale is committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of our workers, customers, contractors and members of the public who may be affected by our removal and transport activities. This policy explains how we manage health and safety in connection with our man and van and removal services, and sets out the standards we expect from everyone working with us.

Policy Aims

The aim of this policy is to prevent injury, ill health, property damage and environmental harm arising from our work. We will identify and manage risks associated with household and office removals, loading and unloading, driving, parking, and work at or near customer premises. We will provide information, instruction and supervision so that work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption to customers and the public.

Management Responsibilities

Management of Man with Van Maida Vale is responsible for implementing and maintaining this health and safety policy. This includes assessing risks, putting in place appropriate control measures, providing training and ensuring that suitable equipment is available and properly maintained. Management will periodically review performance, investigate any accidents or near misses, and update procedures when necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice or our operations.

Employee and Contractor Responsibilities

All drivers, porters and contractors working on behalf of Man with Van Maida Vale must:

Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions; follow all safety procedures and instructions; correctly use any equipment and personal protective equipment provided; report hazards, defects, near misses, accidents and incidents without delay; cooperate with any investigation or health and safety initiative. No person is expected to carry out work that they believe poses a serious and immediate risk to themselves or others.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

We carry out risk assessments that cover typical removal and man and van work, including manual handling, use of vehicles, access to properties, and work in shared or public spaces. For each job, staff are expected to consider site-specific risks such as stairs, restricted access, uneven ground, traffic, weather and any special characteristics of the items being moved. Where necessary, work methods or equipment will be adjusted to reduce risks to an acceptable level.

Manual Handling and Safe Lifting

Manual handling is a key part of our services and is a significant potential source of injury. We aim to minimise manual lifting by using trolleys, dollies and other aids where reasonably practicable. Staff must plan each lift, assess the weight and stability of loads, and ask for assistance with heavy or awkward items. Correct techniques, such as keeping loads close to the body, avoiding twisting, and using a stable stance, are required at all times. Items that exceed safe lifting limits will only be moved using appropriate mechanical assistance or additional labour.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are central to our operations and must be operated safely at all times. Drivers must hold the appropriate valid licence, comply with road traffic requirements and follow company guidelines on safe driving, parking and loading. Loads must be distributed evenly and secured to prevent movement during transit. Drivers must allow sufficient time for journeys, avoid distractions and never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any substance that impairs ability. Vehicles will be regularly checked and maintained to remain roadworthy.

Customer Premises and Public Safety

Work is often carried out at customer homes, offices and in shared or public spaces. Particular care must be taken to prevent trips, falls and collisions. Pathways should be kept as clear as reasonably possible, with cables, packaging and equipment stored safely. When working near entrances, parking areas or pavements, staff must remain alert to pedestrians and other road users. Any damage or near miss affecting customer property or the public must be reported immediately and recorded.

Equipment, Tools and Personal Protective Equipment

We provide suitable equipment for lifting, securing and transporting goods, such as straps, blankets, trolleys and ramps. All equipment must be inspected before use and taken out of service if damaged or defective. Operators must only use equipment they are trained and authorised to use. Where required, personal protective equipment such as gloves or safety footwear will be provided and must be worn in accordance with instructions.

Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work

Removals work can be physically demanding. Staff are expected to present themselves for work fit, rested and able to carry out their duties safely. Any health condition, injury, medication or fatigue that may affect safe performance must be reported to management so that suitable adjustments can be considered. We encourage early reporting of musculoskeletal discomfort or other symptoms related to lifting and carrying, so that action can be taken to prevent further harm.

Training, Information and Supervision

We provide training appropriate to each role, including induction on this policy, safe lifting techniques, vehicle loading, use of equipment, and dealing with site-specific risks. Refresher training will be provided when necessary, especially following incidents or changes in working practices. Less experienced staff will be supervised until they can demonstrate competence. Instructions and guidance are to be followed at all times.

Incident Reporting and Continuous Improvement

All accidents, injuries, near misses, cases of ill health and any significant damage to property must be reported promptly to management. We will investigate incidents to identify causes and take reasonable steps to prevent recurrence. Lessons learned will be used to improve our procedures, training and risk assessments. This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective and reflects the current scope of our man and van and removal services.

Policy Review and Communication

This health and safety policy is communicated to all staff and contractors working with Man with Van Maida Vale. It is also made available to customers who wish to understand how we manage safety during their move. The policy will be reviewed periodically and whenever there are significant changes to our operations, so that it continues to support a safe and professional removal service across our service area.