Man and a Van London Health and Safety Policy

Man and a Van London 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 transport activities. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing safety risks associated with household moves, office relocations, and item transport services.

Our Commitment to Health and Safety

We recognise our duty of care and accept overall responsibility for maintaining high standards of health and safety in every aspect of our operations. Our aims are to prevent accidents, reduce work-related injuries and ill health, and protect property and the environment during all removal and delivery tasks.

Health and safety considerations are integral to planning and delivering our services. Management, supervisors, and all operatives share responsibility for ensuring that safe systems of work are always followed.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Man and a Van London will comply with all relevant health and safety legislation and regulations that apply to transport, manual handling, working in and around client premises, and vehicle operations on public roads. We monitor changes in legislation and recognised industry standards to ensure our practices remain up to date and compliant.

Roles and Responsibilities

Management is responsible for implementing this policy, providing appropriate resources, and ensuring that health and safety are considered in all decisions. Supervisors are tasked with communicating safe working methods, monitoring day-to-day operations, and addressing unsafe behaviour or conditions.

All employees and contractors must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. They must follow instructions, use equipment properly, report hazards, and cooperate fully with health and safety measures introduced by the company.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before starting any removal or delivery job, we assess the potential risks associated with the property, access routes, parking, stairways, lifts, and the nature of the items being moved. Where necessary, specific risk assessments are carried out to identify hazards and agree appropriate control measures.

Safe systems of work are developed for common tasks such as loading and unloading vehicles, carrying large or heavy items, dismantling and reassembling furniture, and working in confined or busy areas. These systems are communicated to all relevant staff and are regularly reviewed for effectiveness.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of our service, and it is managed carefully to minimise the risk of injury. Staff receive training on correct lifting techniques, team lifting, and the use of handling aids such as trolleys and straps. Heavy or awkward items are only moved when sufficient competent staff and appropriate equipment are available.

Where the weight, size, or shape of an item presents an increased risk, we may use additional controls, such as partial disassembly, protective padding, or modified access routes, to ensure the move is carried out safely.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition and are subject to regular checks and servicing. Drivers must hold appropriate licences, follow safe driving practices, and adhere to speed limits and parking restrictions. Loads are secured to prevent shifting during transit, protecting both staff and other road users.

Drivers are responsible for carrying out pre-use checks and reporting any defects or concerns immediately so that remedial action can be taken without delay.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

We provide suitable tools, lifting aids, and protective materials for the safe handling of goods and the protection of property. Equipment is checked regularly and used only for its intended purpose by trained personnel.

Where the nature of the work requires it, personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety footwear, or high-visibility clothing is supplied. Staff must wear and maintain any issued protective equipment and report loss or damage promptly.

Working in Client Premises

Respecting the safety of our clients and the condition of their premises is essential. We plan access routes to minimise disruption and avoid creating trip hazards with boxes, tools, or protective coverings. Particular care is taken when working in communal areas, shared spaces, and locations with children, older people, or vulnerable individuals.

Our teams are instructed to maintain good housekeeping at all times, keeping walkways clear, managing cables and packaging, and leaving areas in a safe condition at the end of the job.

Training, Information, and Supervision

All new staff receive induction training covering our health and safety expectations, common risks associated with removal work, and the correct use of equipment and vehicles. Ongoing training and refreshers are provided as needed to maintain competence and respond to changes in work methods or regulations.

Supervision levels are appropriate to the complexity and risk of each job. Less experienced staff are supported by more experienced colleagues and supervisors to ensure tasks are carried out safely and in line with our procedures.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported as soon as possible to a responsible person. We record and investigate these events to identify root causes and implement improvements that reduce the chance of recurrence.

Our teams are briefed on emergency procedures relevant to their work, including what to do in the event of fire, injury, or sudden illness while on a job. Basic first aid supplies are available in our vehicles, and staff are encouraged to seek medical advice when needed.

Health and Welfare

We recognise that removal work can be physically demanding. Work is planned to avoid unnecessary fatigue, and staff are advised to take appropriate rest breaks, stay hydrated, and raise any health concerns that may affect their ability to carry out tasks safely.

We will make reasonable adjustments for staff with health conditions or disabilities, wherever practicable, to enable them to work safely and effectively.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Man and a Van London is committed to continual improvement in health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly, and at least annually, to reflect changes in our operations, legal requirements, and industry best practice. Feedback from staff and customers is welcomed and used to enhance our safety measures.

This Health and Safety Policy is communicated to all employees and is available to customers and other interested parties on request. By working together and following the principles set out in this policy, we aim to ensure that every move is carried out safely and professionally.