Health and Safety policy

Man with Van Nunhead Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Nunhead is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our staff, customers, and members of the public who may be affected by our removal services. This Health and Safety Policy outlines our approach to managing risks, preventing accidents, and promoting well-being during all moving and transport activities.

Our Health and Safety Objectives

Our primary objectives are to prevent injury, protect health, and minimise risks linked to our moving and handling operations. We aim to ensure that all removals, loading, unloading, and driving activities are carried out safely and responsibly, with appropriate planning and supervision. We will comply with applicable health and safety legislation and follow recognised best practice within the removals industry.

Responsibilities and Accountability

Overall responsibility for health and safety within Man with Van Nunhead rests with the company management. Management is responsible for providing appropriate resources, training, and systems to maintain safe working conditions. Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for implementing this policy on site, monitoring working practices, and addressing any unsafe behaviours or conditions.

All employees, contractors, and helpers have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. They must follow company procedures, use equipment correctly, cooperate with instructions and training, and report hazards, incidents, and near misses without delay.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

We identify and assess risks associated with our removal activities, including manual handling, working in confined spaces, stairways, loading vehicles, and transporting goods. Where necessary, dynamic risk assessments are carried out at each job location so that our teams can respond to specific conditions such as access restrictions, uneven surfaces, or adverse weather.

Findings from risk assessments are used to create and update safe systems of work. These set out how tasks should be planned, organised, and performed to reduce risks to an acceptable level. Employees are informed of any significant risks and the control measures required, and are expected to follow these systems at all times.

Manual Handling and Safe Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of our service, and we take particular care to manage lifting and carrying risks. Staff receive guidance in safe lifting techniques, including assessing the load, using team lifts where appropriate, and utilising handling aids such as trolleys and straps.

We avoid unnecessary lifting and encourage employees to break down loads where possible. Items that are too heavy or awkward to move safely by hand are assessed on a case-by-case basis, and additional equipment or personnel may be arranged. Staff are instructed never to attempt a lift that they believe could endanger themselves or others.

Vehicles, Driving and Loading Safety

Our vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition, with regular checks and servicing. Drivers are expected to comply with road traffic laws, drive responsibly, and plan routes that account for time, weather, and traffic conditions. They must not drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that may impair their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

All loads are secured to prevent movement during transit. Heavy and bulky items are placed and restrained to maintain the vehicle's stability and to protect both the goods and the driver. Access ramps and tailgates, where used, must be operated according to manufacturer instructions and kept clear of obstructions.

Customer Premises and Public Safety

We recognise our duty of care when working in and around customer premises and public areas. Our teams take steps to minimise disruption, keep pathways clear, and reduce trip hazards caused by boxes, tools, or equipment. When carrying items through shared spaces, staff exercise caution to avoid contact with bystanders and property.

Where necessary, appropriate warning is given to those nearby, and customers are advised to keep children, pets, and other household members away from active moving zones. We take care to protect property such as doors, floors, and stairways using suitable coverings or protection where practical.

Training, Information and Supervision

We provide our staff with relevant information, instruction, and training so that they can carry out their duties safely. This may include induction training, task-specific guidance, updates on safe lifting, and briefings on new procedures or equipment. Employees are encouraged to ask questions if they are unsure how to perform any task safely.

Supervisors monitor working practices and provide on-the-job coaching as needed. Any unsafe behaviour or method of work is addressed promptly, and corrective measures are put in place. Lessons learned from incidents or feedback are used to improve our procedures and training content.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, injuries, near misses, and dangerous occurrences must be reported to management as soon as possible. This allows us to investigate what happened, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. When required, records are maintained in line with applicable legal requirements.

Our teams are briefed on basic emergency procedures relevant to their work, such as what to do in case of fire, serious injury, or road collision. They are instructed to prioritise the safety of people, contact emergency services where necessary, and inform management at the earliest opportunity.

Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work

We expect all staff to be fit to undertake removal work safely. Employees must inform management if they suffer from any condition, injury, or illness that could affect their ability to lift, carry, or drive. We discourage working while unwell or fatigued and support reasonable adjustments where possible.

We also promote good housekeeping, hydration, and rest breaks to maintain well-being, especially during demanding moves. Staff are reminded to wear suitable clothing and footwear that provide grip and protection during moving tasks.

Review and Continuous Improvement

This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed periodically, and whenever there are significant changes to our activities, equipment, or legal requirements. We welcome feedback from staff and customers to help us improve our safety performance.

By following this policy and working together, Man with Van Nunhead aims to deliver an efficient and reliable removal service while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of everyone involved.