Wandsworth Man and Van Health and Safety Policy

Wandsworth Man and Van is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, customers, contractors and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with household and commercial removals, man and van services, packing, loading, transport and delivery.

We recognise that the nature of removal activities, manual handling, vehicle use and work at different customer properties can present hazards. Our aim is to prevent accidents, injuries and work-related ill health through careful planning, training and continuous improvement.

Policy Aims and Responsibilities

The overall aim of this policy is to ensure that health and safety considerations are integrated into all aspects of our removal and transport operations. We will comply with applicable health and safety legislation and promote best practice across our services.

Management is responsible for putting in place appropriate systems, procedures and resources to manage health and safety effectively. Supervisors are responsible for implementing this policy on site and ensuring that staff follow agreed methods. Every employee, regardless of position, has a duty to work safely, follow instructions and report concerns immediately.

We expect subcontractors and temporary workers to comply with this policy and any site specific rules provided to them. Customers also have a role in supporting safe operations by providing clear access, disclosing relevant information about their premises and following any safety guidance given by our team.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

We carry out risk assessments for our core activities, including packing, lifting, loading, unloading, driving and working in and around customer properties. These assessments help us identify potential hazards and control measures. They are reviewed regularly and whenever new equipment, vehicles or methods of work are introduced.

Safe working practices are developed from these risk assessments and communicated to staff through training, briefings and written procedures. Where appropriate, method statements are used for more complex or higher risk work, such as moving large, heavy or awkward items, operating in restricted spaces or handling fragile goods.

Manual Handling and Use of Equipment

Manual handling is a key element of our removal services, so particular attention is given to reducing the risks of strain and injury. Staff receive training in correct lifting techniques, team lifting, load assessment and the use of handling aids.

We provide appropriate equipment such as trolleys, dollies, straps, blankets and ramps. This equipment is inspected regularly, kept in good condition and used only for its intended purpose. For heavy or bulky items, team lifting and mechanical aids are used wherever reasonably practicable, and no employee is expected to lift beyond their capability.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are central to our man and van and removal services, and we are committed to safe driving and transport operations. Vehicles are maintained, inspected and serviced according to manufacturer guidance and legal requirements. Daily checks are carried out by drivers before vehicles are used.

Drivers are expected to comply with road traffic laws, drive considerately, plan routes to minimise risk and avoid unnecessary reversing where possible. Loads are secured to prevent movement during transit, and weight limits are respected. Parking and unloading are planned so as to minimise risk to staff, customers and the public.

Working at Customer Premises

Each property and site is different, and our staff take care to assess conditions when they arrive. Particular attention is paid to stairs, narrow corridors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, wet or slippery areas and any obstacles that could cause trips or falls.

Where necessary, our team will agree safe access routes with the customer and may request that items are moved, pets are kept safely out of the work area or that children remain clear of loading zones. If our staff believe that conditions are unsafe, work may be paused until a safe solution is agreed.

Personal Protective Equipment

Suitable personal protective equipment is provided where required and must be used in accordance with instructions. This may include protective footwear, gloves, high visibility clothing and any additional items identified by risk assessment.

Employees are responsible for looking after their personal protective equipment, reporting any defects and ensuring it is worn correctly whenever tasks or locations require it.

Training, Information and Supervision

All employees receive appropriate induction and ongoing training relevant to their role. This includes manual handling, safe driving practices where applicable, use of equipment, hazard awareness and emergency procedures. Training needs are reviewed regularly and when work methods or legislation change.

Supervision is provided to ensure that safe systems of work are followed, particularly for new or inexperienced staff. Safety information is communicated clearly and updated as required so that all team members understand their responsibilities.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, near misses and unsafe conditions must be reported as soon as possible to a supervisor or manager. We keep records of incidents to help identify trends and areas where additional controls or training may be needed.

Emergency procedures are in place for foreseeable situations, such as fire, road traffic incidents, injury or sudden illness. Staff are briefed on what to do in an emergency, including how to summon assistance and protect themselves, customers and the public from further harm.

Consultation and Continuous Improvement

Wandsworth Man and Van recognises that effective health and safety management depends on open communication. We encourage feedback from employees and customers about any safety concerns or suggestions for improvement.

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective and relevant to our removal and man and van operations. Where improvements are identified, they are implemented as part of our commitment to providing a safe, reliable and professional service.