Man with Van Brompton Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Brompton is committed to providing removal and transport services in a way that protects the health, safety and welfare of our customers, staff, contractors and members of the public. This Health and Safety policy sets out our approach to planning, carrying out and reviewing all work activities so that risks are identified, controlled and, where possible, eliminated.

This policy applies to all services we provide, including domestic and commercial removals, packing, loading, transport and unloading of goods.

Health and Safety Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for health and safety within Man with Van Brompton rests with the company management. Management is responsible for ensuring that adequate resources, training and equipment are provided so that work can be carried out safely and in compliance with relevant health and safety legislation and best practice for the removals industry.

Every team member has a duty to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Staff must follow all safety instructions, use equipment correctly, report hazards and incidents promptly and cooperate fully with any investigation or review.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Before work begins, we assess the risks associated with each move. This includes considering access to the property, stairs and lifts, parking arrangements, manual handling demands, weather conditions and any special requirements for fragile or heavy items.

Where significant risks are identified, we put in place appropriate control measures. These may include using additional staff, employing mechanical aids, adjusting the planned route, scheduling work at safer times of day or declining work that cannot be carried out safely.

Safe systems of work are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain suitable for the types of moves we undertake. Lessons from previous jobs, customer feedback and any incidents are used to improve our procedures.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a key part of removals work and is managed carefully to minimise the risk of injury. All staff receive guidance in safe lifting techniques, including team lifting, correct posture, keeping loads close to the body and avoiding twisting or overreaching.

We plan the movement of large or awkward items in advance, confirming clear pathways and stable footing. Where necessary, we use moving equipment such as trolleys, dollies and straps to reduce physical strain. Items that are too heavy or unsafe to move manually will not be handled until a safer method is available.

Staff are encouraged to speak up if a load feels unsafe or beyond their capability and to request assistance or additional equipment. No employee is required to lift or move an item they reasonably believe to present a risk to health.

Use of Vehicles and Driving Safety

Our vehicles are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition, with regular checks and servicing. Drivers must hold the appropriate licence and are expected to comply with all road traffic laws and company driving procedures.

Journey planning takes account of realistic travel times, rest breaks and safe loading practices. Loads are secured so that items cannot move unexpectedly during transport. Weight limits for vehicles are not exceeded, and heavy items are positioned to maintain vehicle stability and control.

Drivers must not operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any substance that could impair their ability to drive safely. Any vehicle defects or concerns identified by drivers are reported immediately so that they can be rectified before the vehicle is used again.

Customer and Public Safety

We take care to protect customers, visitors, neighbours and members of the public during our work. This includes maintaining clear walkways, avoiding unnecessary obstruction of access, and using safe routes when carrying items to and from our vehicles.

Where there is a risk of trips, slips or collisions, we position equipment and items to minimise hazards and, where necessary, verbally warn people in the area. When work takes place in shared spaces, such as communal entrances or pavements, staff remain vigilant and adapt their methods to keep others safe.

Equipment, Tools and Personal Protective Equipment

All equipment and tools used by Man with Van Brompton are selected and maintained with safety in mind. Regular inspections are carried out, and any damaged or defective equipment is taken out of use until repaired or replaced.

Where the nature of the work requires it, appropriate personal protective equipment is provided, such as gloves, safety footwear and high visibility clothing. Staff are responsible for using this equipment correctly, keeping it in good condition and reporting any issues requiring replacement.

Training, Information and Supervision

We ensure that staff are given information, instruction and training relevant to their duties. This covers safe lifting methods, use of equipment, vehicle safety, incident reporting and emergency procedures, as well as general awareness of health and safety responsibilities.

New staff are supervised and supported until they can carry out tasks confidently and safely. Experienced team members are expected to set a good example, mentor less experienced colleagues and reinforce safe working practices on every job.

Accidents, Incidents and Near Misses

All accidents, injuries, dangerous occurrences and near misses must be reported to management as soon as possible. We record these events, investigate their causes and take action to prevent recurrence where reasonably practicable.

We encourage open reporting and do not tolerate any form of victimisation of staff who raise genuine safety concerns. Learning from incidents is shared across the team so that improvements benefit all future work.

Wellbeing and Fitness for Work

We recognise that removals work can be physically demanding. Staff are encouraged to maintain good general health, stay hydrated and take appropriate rest breaks. Anyone who feels unwell, overly fatigued or physically unable to undertake a task safely must inform their supervisor or manager.

We do not permit work under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. Staff taking prescribed medication that may affect their ability to work safely must notify management so that appropriate adjustments can be considered.

Review and Policy Updates

This Health and Safety policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective, up to date and appropriate for the services provided by Man with Van Brompton. Changes in legislation, industry guidance, working practices or the nature of our services may lead to updates at any time.

All staff are informed of any significant changes to this policy and are expected to familiarise themselves with the latest version. By working together and following this policy, we aim to carry out every move safely, efficiently and with care for everyone involved.