Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Whitton

Man with Van Whitton 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 the principles and responsibilities that guide the way we plan and deliver our moving and man and van services.

Policy Statement and Objectives

Our objective is to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property by managing the risks that arise from our work. We aim to continuously improve our health and safety performance by monitoring our activities, learning from experience, and updating our procedures as necessary.

We will comply with all applicable health and safety legislation and recognised industry best practice relevant to removal, loading, transportation, and delivery of goods. Health and safety considerations form an integral part of our daily planning and decision-making.

Management Responsibilities

Management is responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring that safe systems of work are in place for all services, including house moves, flat moves, office moves, and general man and van operations. This includes:

Assessing risks associated with manual handling, driving, loading and unloading, use of equipment, and working at customers premises.

Providing suitable equipment, such as trolleys, moving straps and protective materials, that is maintained in a safe condition.

Ensuring that employees receive appropriate instruction and training to carry out their tasks safely and competently.

Monitoring and reviewing working practices to confirm that this policy remains effective and up to date.

Employee Responsibilities

All employees and regular subcontractors working for Man with Van Whitton have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who might be affected by their actions. They must:

Follow all safety procedures, instructions, and training provided.

Use equipment correctly and report any defects immediately so that it can be repaired or replaced.

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for lifting, carrying, and working in varied environments.

Report accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions so that corrective action can be taken promptly.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Prior to each removal or delivery job, risks are assessed with regard to access, parking, routes within the property, weight and size of items, and any specific customer requirements. Where necessary, additional control measures are implemented, such as using extra staff, specialised lifting aids, or adjusting the timing of the work.

Safe systems of work include:

Planning the route for moving goods in and out of properties to avoid trip hazards, obstacles, and fragile surfaces.

Ensuring that vans are parked safely and legally, minimising the need to carry heavy items over long distances.

Loading and unloading vehicles in a controlled manner to prevent falls of objects and damage to goods or property.

Avoiding work in unsafe weather or lighting conditions where this could significantly increase risk.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of our business, and we take specific steps to reduce the risk of injury from lifting and carrying. Our approach includes:

Encouraging team lifts for heavy or awkward items such as furniture, appliances, and large boxes.

Using lifting aids, trolleys, and other suitable equipment where reasonably practicable.

Applying correct lifting techniques, keeping loads close to the body and avoiding twisting while carrying.

Refusing to move items that exceed safe handling limits or that present an unacceptable risk without additional resources or equipment.

Vehicle Safety and Driving

Our vehicles are central to our removal services and must be operated safely at all times. We ensure that:

Vans are regularly inspected and maintained in line with manufacturer guidance.

Loads are properly secured within the vehicle to prevent movement during transit.

Drivers are competent, hold valid licences, and follow all road traffic laws and safe driving practices.

Journey times are planned to avoid unnecessary pressure on drivers, reducing the risk of fatigue-related incidents.

Customer and Public Safety

We conduct our work in a way that protects customers, visitors, neighbours, and members of the public. This includes:

Maintaining clear walkways and minimising the time that doors, pavements, or communal areas are obstructed.

Communicating clearly with customers about when and where we will be working, and any temporary restrictions that may be needed.

Being mindful of noise, dust, and other potential disturbances, particularly during early or late hours.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Measures

Tools and equipment used for removals are selected to be suitable for the task and are checked regularly. Where appropriate, staff may use gloves, safety footwear, or other protective items to reduce risk. Equipment that is damaged, defective, or unsafe is removed from use until repaired or replaced.

Training, Information, and Supervision

Man with Van Whitton provides ongoing training and guidance on health and safety matters relevant to our removal services. New starters receive an induction covering safe lifting techniques, vehicle safety, and working safely in customers homes and business premises. Refresher guidance is given whenever procedures change or new equipment is introduced.

Supervision is proportionate to the level of risk and the experience of staff. Less experienced workers are supported by more experienced team members to ensure that tasks are completed safely.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, and near misses that occur during our work must be reported to management as soon as possible. Records are kept and reviewed to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. In the event of an emergency, such as fire, serious injury, or structural damage, work is stopped immediately and appropriate emergency services are contacted.

Monitoring and Review of Policy

This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains suitable for the scale and nature of our man and van and removal activities. Reviews are also carried out following any significant changes to our operations, relevant legal requirements, or after serious incidents.

By working together and following the principles set out in this policy, Man with Van Whitton aims to provide safe, reliable, and responsible removal services for all customers within our operating area.