Health and Safety policy

Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Swiss Cottage

Man with Van Swiss Cottage is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, customers and members of the public affected by our removal and transport services. This Health and Safety policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with moving, lifting, loading, unloading and transporting goods in homes, apartments, offices and other premises within our service area.

Policy Statement

Our aim is to prevent accidents, injuries and work-related ill health by identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing effective control measures. We will comply with applicable health and safety legislation and recognised industry best practice for removal and transport operations. Health and safety is an integral part of our planning, decision making and day-to-day work.

Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for health and safety within Man with Van Swiss Cottage rests with company management. Management will ensure that appropriate resources, training, supervision and equipment are provided so that work can be carried out safely. Managers and supervisors are responsible for implementing this policy, monitoring performance and taking corrective action where necessary.

All employees and contractors 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 instructions, use equipment correctly, report hazards and cooperate fully with all health and safety measures put in place. Customers are expected to cooperate by providing safe access to premises, clear information about items to be moved and any known risks at the collection or delivery location.

Risk Assessment and Planning

Before work is carried out, suitable and sufficient risk assessments will be completed for our removal and van services. These assessments will consider manual handling, vehicle movements, access routes, stairs, lifts, uneven surfaces, weather conditions and other relevant factors. For complex or higher risk jobs, site-specific assessments and method statements will be prepared. Work will be planned to minimise risks to staff, customers, neighbours and the general public.

Safe Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core element of removal work and will be managed carefully to reduce the risk of strains, sprains and other injuries. Staff will be trained in safe lifting techniques, team lifting, and the use of handling aids. Loads will be assessed for weight, shape and stability before being moved. Heavy or awkward items will only be lifted with adequate manpower or appropriate equipment such as trolleys, dollies or moving straps. Staff will be instructed to avoid over-reaching, twisting while carrying loads, or attempting lifts beyond their capability.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

All equipment used for removals, including trolleys, ramps, protective covers and securing devices, will be maintained in a safe condition and inspected regularly. Staff will be trained in the correct use of each item. Where necessary, personal protective equipment will be provided, such as safety footwear, gloves and high visibility clothing. Employees must use this equipment as instructed and report any defects immediately so that faulty equipment is taken out of service.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are central to our man and van services and will be operated to high safety standards. Vehicles will be maintained and serviced in line with manufacturer recommendations and legal requirements. Drivers must hold the appropriate licence, be medically fit to drive and follow all road traffic regulations. Loads will be secured using suitable restraints to prevent movement during transit, protecting both the goods and other road users. Drivers are expected to plan routes to allow sufficient time, avoid unnecessary risks and adapt to weather and traffic conditions.

Safe Working on Customer Premises

When working in homes, apartments, offices and other buildings, our staff will take care to protect both people and property. Access routes will be kept as clear as reasonably possible, and trip hazards such as loose cables or packaging will be minimised. Protective coverings may be used to safeguard floors, staircases and doorways. Where there is restricted space, limited headroom or other specific hazards, staff will adjust their working methods and communicate clearly with the customer and each other.

Housekeeping and Environment

Good housekeeping is essential to safe removal work. Vehicles and equipment will be kept clean, organised and free from unnecessary clutter. Waste materials, packaging and unwanted items will be handled in a tidy and responsible manner. Where possible, items suitable for reuse or recycling will be separated, and disposal will be carried out in a lawful and environmentally considerate way. Noise, dust and other disturbance will be kept to a minimum, particularly in residential areas.

Training, Information and Supervision

All employees will receive appropriate induction and ongoing training relevant to their role, including manual handling, safe loading and unloading, vehicle safety and customer care. Additional training will be provided for new equipment, changes in legislation or new working methods. Staff will be given clear instructions and information about the risks associated with their work and the measures in place to control those risks. Supervisors will monitor working practices, provide guidance and address unsafe behaviour promptly.

Accidents, Incidents and Near Miss Reporting

All accidents, injuries, incidents and near misses occurring during our removal and transport activities must be reported to management as soon as practicable. Details will be recorded, investigated and used to identify root causes and implement improvements. Where required, incidents will be reported to the appropriate authorities. Employees are encouraged to report hazards and near misses without fear of blame, so that lessons can be learned and future incidents prevented.

Health, Wellbeing and Fitness for Work

Removal work can be physically demanding, and we recognise the importance of maintaining good health and fitness for work. Employees are expected to present themselves fit for duty and to report any health issues that may affect their ability to carry out tasks safely, including the use of medication. The misuse of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited during working hours and while driving company vehicles. Work will be organised to allow for adequate rest breaks and to avoid excessive fatigue.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Man with Van Swiss Cottage is committed to the continuous improvement of its health and safety performance. This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, industry practice, business operations or identified risks. Feedback from employees, contractors and customers will be considered as part of this review, helping us maintain a safe, reliable and professional removal service across our operating area.