Man with Van Docklands Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Docklands is committed to providing removal and delivery services in a way that protects the health, safety and welfare of our workers, customers, visitors and the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out the principles, responsibilities and procedures we follow to manage risks associated with our man and van, home and office removals, and related transport activities.

Policy Statement and Objectives

We aim to conduct all operations, including packing, lifting, loading, transport and unloading, so that accidents, injuries and damage to property are prevented as far as reasonably practicable. Our objectives are to identify hazards in our removal and transport work, assess the risks, and implement proportionate control measures. We will provide information, instruction, training and supervision appropriate to the tasks being carried out.

Roles and Responsibilities

Management is responsible for implementing this policy, ensuring that appropriate risk assessments are carried out and reviewed, that equipment and vehicles are maintained in safe condition, and that staff have access to suitable training and guidance. Managers will lead by example and promote a positive safety culture in all aspects of our moving and delivery services.

Employees and contractors are required to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their work. This includes following training and safe systems of work, using equipment correctly, reporting hazards or incidents promptly, and cooperating with any health and safety instructions given by management or supervisors.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before carrying out removal jobs, we assess foreseeable risks associated with the property layout, access routes, parking, the weight and nature of items to be moved, and any specific customer requirements. Where necessary, we will adjust staffing levels, plan additional time, or use specialist equipment to ensure the job can be completed safely.

Safe systems of work are established for recurring tasks such as lifting heavy furniture, carrying items up or down stairs, manoeuvring large objects in confined spaces, and loading vehicles to prevent shifting of loads. These systems are communicated to all relevant personnel and periodically reviewed for effectiveness.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of our removal service, and we recognise the risk of strains, sprains and other musculoskeletal injuries. Employees receive guidance on correct lifting techniques, team handling for awkward or heavy items, and recognition of personal limits. No worker is expected to lift or carry items that they believe to be unsafe.

Where possible, mechanical aids such as trolleys, skates, straps and other lifting equipment are used to reduce the need for manual handling. We plan moves to minimise carrying distances and avoid unnecessary repeated handling of the same items.

Vehicle and Driving Safety

Our vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy and safe condition, with regular inspections and servicing. Drivers must hold the appropriate licence, comply with road traffic laws and follow company procedures for loading, securing and unloading goods.

Loads are arranged and secured to prevent movement during transit, taking into account weight distribution and the nature of the items being carried. Drivers are instructed not to operate vehicles if they are unfit through tiredness, illness or any other cause that could impair safe driving. Any vehicle defects or concerns must be reported immediately so that appropriate action can be taken.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

All equipment used in connection with our man and van services, such as lifting aids, straps, blankets and protective coverings, must be suitable for the purpose and kept in good condition. Defective or damaged equipment is removed from service and either repaired or replaced.

Personal protective equipment, such as safety footwear and gloves, is provided where the risk assessment indicates it is necessary. Staff are expected to use this equipment correctly and to report any loss or damage.

Customer, Public and Property Protection

We recognise our responsibility to protect customers, neighbours, passers-by and other third parties from risks arising from our activities. Access routes are kept clear where reasonably practicable, and staff are instructed to be mindful of trip hazards, open doors, moving vehicles and other potential dangers.

Measures are taken to reduce the risk of damage to property, including the use of appropriate covers and padding, careful planning of routes for large or fragile items, and safe stacking and storage practices during the move.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, near misses, injuries and damage incidents related to our work must be reported to management as soon as practicable. This allows us to investigate causes, take corrective action, and improve our procedures to prevent recurrence.

Emergency arrangements are explained to staff, including procedures for fire, serious injury, road traffic incidents and any situation that presents an immediate risk. Employees must follow these procedures, cooperate with emergency services where required, and prioritise personal safety and the safety of others.

Training, Communication and Consultation

We provide initial and ongoing training so that employees understand their health and safety responsibilities and can perform their duties safely. This may include instruction on manual handling, safe use of equipment, vehicle safety, customer interaction and site-specific hazards. Refresher training is provided where risks change or where additional support is needed.

Health and safety information is communicated clearly and in a way that is easy to understand. We encourage staff to raise any concerns, suggestions or questions about safe working practices, and we will consider these in our planning and review processes.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

The effectiveness of this Health and Safety Policy and associated procedures is monitored through incident reports, feedback from staff and customers, and periodic reviews of our working practices. Where changes in legislation, technology, company activities or identified risks occur, we will review and, where necessary, revise this policy.

Man with Van Docklands is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance, so that our removal and transport services are delivered reliably, efficiently and with maximum regard for the wellbeing of everyone involved.