Health and Safety policy
Belsize Park Man and Van Health and Safety Policy
This Health and Safety Policy sets out how Belsize Park Man and Van manages the wellbeing of employees, contractors, customers and members of the public while providing removal and man and van services. Our work often involves lifting, carrying, driving, loading and unloading in residential and commercial environments, so a clear and practical approach to safety is essential.
Policy Statement
Belsize Park Man and Van is committed to conducting all removal and transport activities in a way that prevents injury, ill health and damage to property. We will identify hazards, assess risks and implement sensible controls so that our services are carried out as safely as reasonably practicable.
We expect everyone working with or on behalf of the company to follow this policy and to take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for health and safety within Belsize Park Man and Van rests with the company management. Management will:
Plan work activities so they can be carried out safely, particularly in relation to moving heavy items, operating vehicles and working in customers premises.
Provide information, instruction and training to staff and regular contractors on safe systems of work.
Ensure that vehicles, tools, lifting aids and other equipment are maintained in safe working condition.
Review risk assessments, this policy and related procedures on a regular basis and following any significant incident.
Employees and contractors are required to:
Cooperate fully with this policy, training received and any site-specific safety instructions.
Use vehicles, equipment and personal protective equipment correctly and report defects immediately.
Work in a way that does not put themselves, colleagues, customers or the public at risk.
Report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions or potential hazards without delay.
Risk Assessment and Planning
Before each removal or man and van job, the team will consider the specific risks associated with the task, including access constraints, stairways, parking, manual handling requirements and any fragile or high-value items. Where necessary, a formal risk assessment will be carried out and control measures will be put in place.
Planning activities include assessing the number of staff needed, the type of vehicle, the use of trolleys or lifting aids, and the time of day for loading and unloading so that congestion and unnecessary risk are reduced.
Manual Handling and Lifting Safety
Manual handling is a core part of our work and is a key focus of our safety arrangements. To minimise the risk of back injuries, strains and other musculoskeletal problems, we will:
Provide guidance and training in correct lifting techniques and team lifting methods.
Encourage staff to assess the weight and shape of items before lifting and to request assistance where needed.
Use suitable equipment such as sack trucks, dollies, sliders and straps where reasonably practicable.
Avoid unsafe practices such as twisting while lifting, overreaching, rushing or carrying items that obscure vision.
If an item is too heavy or awkward to move safely, the job will be reconsidered and alternative methods will be discussed with the customer.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
Safe operation of vehicles is essential to protect our staff, customers and other road users. Belsize Park Man and Van will ensure that:
Vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition and checked regularly.
Loads are distributed and secured correctly to prevent shifting during transit.
Drivers hold the appropriate licence and are competent, rested and fit to drive.
Drivers follow all traffic laws, drive considerately and adapt their speed to conditions.
Parking and loading are carried out in the safest available location, with attention to pedestrians, cyclists and nearby property.
Customer Premises and Public Safety
Our teams work in homes, offices and shared spaces where customers, neighbours and visitors may be present. To protect everyone involved, we will:
Keep access routes as clear as practical, especially stairways and doorways used for carrying items.
Take care to protect floors, walls, doors and fixtures from damage that could create hazards.
Use caution when moving large items through tight spaces, near glass, or near other people.
Where risk is increased, agree with the customer how best to manage access and movement around the premises.
Ensure that tools, packing materials, boxes and waste are not left where they could cause trips or falls.
Equipment, Tools and Personal Protective Equipment
Only suitable equipment will be used for moving and protecting goods, including blankets, straps, trolleys and ramps where appropriate. Staff must not use damaged or defective equipment. Any item found to be unsafe must be taken out of service and reported.
Personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety footwear or high-visibility clothing will be provided where the risk assessment identifies a need. Where provided, such equipment must be worn and used correctly.
Training, Information and Supervision
Belsize Park Man and Van will provide staff with relevant information and training so they can carry out their roles safely. This may include induction training, on-the-job instruction, toolbox talks and refresher guidance on issues such as lifting, driving and working in shared spaces.
Less experienced staff will be appropriately supervised until they are competent to work more independently. Managers and supervisors will monitor work practices and correct unsafe behaviour.
Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
All accidents, incidents, near misses and damage to property connected with our work must be reported to management as soon as possible. This allows us to investigate, identify causes and take action to prevent recurrence.
In the event of a serious incident or emergency, the immediate priority is the safety of people on site. Staff must follow any relevant emergency procedures, seek medical assistance if required and inform management promptly.
Monitoring and Review
This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed periodically and updated when necessary, for example following changes in our services, introduction of new equipment or after a significant incident. We welcome feedback from staff and customers to help improve safety performance across all our removal and man and van activities.
By working together and following this policy, Belsize Park Man and Van aims to provide a reliable, efficient and safe service for every move.
