Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Shepherds Bush
Man with Van Shepherds Bush is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our customers, employees, contractors and members of the public affected by our removal and transportation activities. This Health and Safety Policy sets out the principles and procedures we follow to manage risks, prevent injuries and protect property throughout our moving services.
Our Health and Safety Commitment
We aim to conduct all house moves, flat moves, office relocations and delivery services in a responsible manner that minimises risks to people, vehicles, buildings and belongings. Management is responsible for ensuring that adequate resources are available to implement this policy and that health and safety considerations are integrated into all planning and operational decisions.
All staff are required to work safely, follow company procedures, use equipment correctly and report hazards or incidents promptly so that improvements can be made where needed.
Legal Responsibilities and Compliance
Man with Van Shepherds Bush complies with relevant health and safety legislation and industry best practice for removal and transport services. We monitor changes in regulations and update our procedures, training and documentation as required. All employees must co operate with these requirements as a condition of their employment.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We carry out risk assessments for typical removal tasks, including lifting and carrying, loading and unloading vehicles, working on stairs, operating in confined spaces and handling bulky or fragile items. For more complex moves or sites with specific hazards, a job specific risk assessment is completed before work begins.
Control measures identified during risk assessments are implemented and communicated clearly to staff, including route planning, use of appropriate lifting techniques, requirements for personal protective equipment and restrictions on manual handling of very heavy items.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is a key aspect of removal work and a main focus of our safety controls. All team members are trained in safe lifting techniques and correct use of handling aids, such as trolleys, skates, straps and blankets. Staff are instructed to avoid unnecessary lifting, to share loads where possible and to refuse unsafe lifting tasks that could cause strain or injury.
Bulky or awkward items are assessed individually to determine the safest handling method, which may include dismantling, team lifting, using additional equipment or adjusting access routes. Staff are encouraged to take regular short breaks from intense lifting activities to reduce fatigue.
Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment
Removal equipment is selected, inspected and maintained to ensure it is suitable for the tasks carried out. This includes trolleys, ramps, straps, furniture covers and basic tools for dismantling and reassembly. Damaged or defective equipment is taken out of use immediately and reported for repair or replacement.
Where appropriate, staff are provided with personal protective equipment such as safety footwear, gloves and high visibility clothing. Employees are required to wear and care for this equipment as instructed and to report any defects or losses without delay.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
The safe operation of our vans is essential to the protection of our staff, customers and other road users. Vehicles are regularly inspected, serviced and maintained in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and legal requirements. Pre use checks are carried out by drivers before starting work each day.
Our drivers are required to hold valid driving licences, follow road traffic laws, adhere to speed limits and drive in a considerate and defensive manner. Loads are distributed evenly and secured properly within the vehicle to prevent movement during transit, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring safe handling when doors are opened.
Customer Premises and Public Safety
When working at customer premises, our teams take care to protect people, property and access ways. This includes using suitable floor protection where necessary, keeping routes clear of trip hazards, and stacking items safely while loading or unloading.
Where work takes place in shared areas or near public pathways, staff are instructed to be especially aware of passing pedestrians and to manage access with care. Customers may be asked to keep children, pets and non essential persons away from work areas during loading and unloading for their own safety.
Training, Information and Supervision
All staff receive induction training that covers our Health and Safety Policy, safe working procedures, manual handling, vehicle safety and emergency arrangements. Ongoing training and refresher sessions are provided as required, particularly when new equipment, vehicles or procedures are introduced.
Supervisors and experienced team members monitor working practices, provide guidance and correct unsafe behaviour. Constructive feedback is encouraged so that safety performance continues to improve.
Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
Any accidents, injuries, near misses or property damage must be reported to management as soon as possible. All incidents are recorded, investigated and reviewed to identify root causes and implement preventive measures. We promote an open reporting culture, focusing on learning rather than blame.
Emergency procedures are in place for vehicle breakdowns, road incidents, fire, personal injury and other foreseeable emergencies during removal work. Staff are instructed to prioritise personal safety and the safety of others, contact emergency services where necessary and notify the company promptly.
Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work
We recognise that removal work can be physically demanding. We encourage staff to maintain good health, stay hydrated and recognise signs of fatigue. Employees must not work under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any substance that may impair judgement or performance.
Where staff have medical conditions or temporary injuries that may affect their ability to carry out certain tasks safely, this must be disclosed so that appropriate adjustments can be considered, such as modified duties or team based handling.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Man with Van Shepherds Bush is committed to continually improving health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly and whenever there are significant changes to our operations, vehicles, equipment or legal requirements. Feedback from staff and customers is welcomed as part of our effort to maintain a safe and reliable removal service across our operating area.
By choosing Man with Van Shepherds Bush, customers can be confident that health and safety considerations form an integral part of how we plan and deliver every move.
