Health and Safety Policy for Tooting Man and Van

Tooting Man and Van is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our team, our customers and the general public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out the principles and procedures we follow to manage risks associated with removals, loading and unloading, transportation, and related services.

Policy Statement and Objectives

Our objective is to prevent accidents, injuries and damage to property by managing health and safety risks in a systematic and proactive way. Health and safety is an integral part of how we plan and deliver our man and van and removal services. We aim to continually improve our performance through risk assessment, training, monitoring and review.

All staff, contractors and subcontractors working on behalf of Tooting Man and Van are required to follow this policy and all related procedures. We expect the cooperation of customers and other third parties to support a safe working environment at collection and delivery locations.

Management Responsibilities

Management is responsible for ensuring that suitable arrangements are in place to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees and others who may be affected by our operations. This includes providing appropriate resources, information, training and supervision to enable work to be carried out safely.

Management will regularly review this policy to ensure it remains relevant and effective, taking into account changes in legislation, industry best practice, and the nature and scale of our removal activities.

Employee Responsibilities

Every employee has a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Staff must:

• Follow all safety procedures and instructions.

• Use vehicles, tools and equipment correctly and safely.

• Report hazards, near misses, accidents and health and safety concerns promptly.

• Wear appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment as required.

• Avoid reckless or unsafe behaviour when handling items or operating vehicles.

Customer and Public Safety

We are committed to carrying out removal and man and van services in a way that minimises risk to customers, visitors, neighbours and members of the public. We will:

• Plan routes and parking to reduce obstruction and congestion.

• Use safe loading and unloading practices that protect people and property.

• Maintain clear walkways where possible during moves.

• Communicate with customers about any restrictions or safety requirements at their premises.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before undertaking removal work, we identify significant risks and implement appropriate control measures. Typical risks include manual handling injuries, slips and trips, falls from height when using vehicles or access equipment, and vehicle-related incidents.

We develop and apply safe systems of work that consider the nature of the items being moved, the access routes, stairs and lifts, floor surfaces, weather conditions, and any specific hazards at the property. Where conditions change or new risks are identified, we review and update our approach.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of removal and man and van services, and we take particular care to manage the risks. Our approach includes:

• Training staff in correct lifting and carrying techniques.

• Using handling aids such as trolleys and straps wherever possible.

• Planning the move to minimise carrying distances and awkward routes.

• Ensuring loads are within safe weight limits for the number of operatives.

• Encouraging team lifting for heavy or bulky items such as furniture and appliances.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are central to our man and van and removal services, and their safe operation is essential. We will:

• Ensure vehicles are correctly maintained and inspected.

• Load vehicles securely so items cannot shift in transit.

• Require drivers to comply with road traffic laws and drive responsibly.

• Plan realistic schedules to reduce time pressure and fatigue.

• Consider weather and traffic conditions when planning journeys.

Equipment, Tools and Personal Protective Equipment

We provide suitable equipment and tools for removal work, including trolleys, blankets and securing straps. All equipment must be used in accordance with training and manufacturer guidance.

Personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety footwear and high-visibility clothing is provided where required by the task or environment. Employees must use such equipment correctly and report any defects immediately.

Housekeeping and Site Safety

Good housekeeping is important to prevent slips, trips, falls and damage to property. Our teams will:

• Keep access routes as clear as reasonably practicable.

• Avoid trailing cables and other trip hazards.

• Stack items safely and not obstruct exits or emergency routes.

• Take particular care on stairs, landings and near fragile surfaces.

Training, Information and Supervision

We provide employees with information, instruction and training that is appropriate to their role and responsibilities within the removal process. Training may include induction, safe manual handling, use of equipment, vehicle safety and emergency procedures.

Supervision is provided to ensure that safety standards are maintained and that new or inexperienced staff receive appropriate support.

Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work

We recognise that removal work can be physically demanding. Employees are encouraged to declare any health conditions that may affect their ability to carry out tasks safely, so that reasonable adjustments can be considered.

Staff must not report for duty under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or any substance that could impair safe performance. We promote regular breaks and safe working practices to reduce fatigue and strain.

Accidents, Incidents and Near Misses

All accidents, incidents and near misses must be reported without delay. We will investigate such events to identify causes and take corrective action to prevent recurrence. Where appropriate, findings are shared with staff to support learning and improvement.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

We monitor our health and safety performance through incident reports, feedback from staff and customers, and periodic reviews of our procedures. This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly and updated when needed to reflect changes in our operations or legal requirements.

By working together and following this policy, Tooting Man and Van aims to deliver reliable removal and man and van services while protecting the health and safety of everyone involved.