Health and Safety policy

Man with Van Barnet Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Barnet is committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of our customers, team members, contractors and the general public during all removal and transport activities. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with moving, lifting, loading, transportation and delivery of goods, as well as working in homes, offices and shared spaces.

Our Health and Safety Commitment

We aim to operate all man and van and removal services in a way that prevents injury, ill health, property damage and environmental harm. Health and safety is an integral part of our planning and decision-making for every job, from small local moves to larger home or office relocations.

All members of our team are required to work safely, follow agreed procedures, use equipment correctly and report hazards or incidents promptly so that we can address them and continuously improve.

Legal Responsibilities and Duties

We comply with relevant health and safety laws and regulations that apply to transport, manual handling, lifting operations, vehicle use and work at customers premises. Our management accepts overall responsibility for the implementation and maintenance of this policy, including providing appropriate information, instruction, training and supervision.

Employees and contractors working with Man with Van Barnet 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 cooperate with us on all safety matters and follow safe working practices at all times.

Risk Assessment and Planning

Before each removal or delivery task, we consider the specific risks associated with the property, access routes, parking, stairways, lifts, weather conditions and the items to be moved. Where necessary we complete a formal risk assessment and plan the safest way to carry out the work.

We assess potential hazards such as heavy or awkward loads, fragile or high-value items, restricted access, uneven surfaces, vehicle loading and unloading areas and interaction with other occupants or members of the public. Control measures are then put in place to reduce these risks to a reasonably practicable level.

Safe Manual Handling and Use of Equipment

Manual handling is a core part of removal work, and we recognise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries if it is not carried out correctly. Our policy is to avoid hazardous lifting wherever possible by using appropriate equipment and by reducing the weight and size of loads.

Where lifting and carrying are unavoidable, team members are trained in safe handling techniques, including correct posture, team lifts, route planning and communication. We use suitable equipment such as trolleys, dollies, straps, blankets and ramps, and ensure that these are maintained in good working condition.

Vehicle Safety and Loading

Our vehicles are selected and maintained to be suitable for removal and transport work, with regular checks carried out on tyres, brakes, lights and securing points. Drivers must be competent, hold the appropriate licence and follow road traffic laws at all times.

We load vehicles carefully to maintain stability and prevent movement of goods during transit. Loads are distributed evenly, secured using appropriate restraints and checked before departure. Overloading is strictly prohibited, and doors, ramps and tailgates are used in accordance with manufacturer instructions.

Working in Customers Properties

When working in homes, offices or shared buildings, our team will act with respect and take reasonable steps to protect people and property. This includes using floor and wall protection where appropriate, keeping routes clear, minimising trip hazards and being mindful of noise and disturbance.

We will identify and discuss any access issues, restrictions or safety concerns with the customer before work begins. Where conditions are unsafe, such as severely obstructed exits, dangerous staircases or structural damage, we may postpone or adapt the work until risks are adequately controlled.

Personal Protective Equipment

Where risks cannot be fully eliminated by other means, we provide and require the use of suitable personal protective equipment. This may include protective footwear, gloves, high-visibility clothing and other items appropriate to the specific job and environment.

All team members must use equipment as instructed, keep it in good condition and report any defects so that it can be repaired or replaced promptly.

Training, Information and Supervision

We ensure that all staff receive appropriate training for their roles, including safe lifting and carrying, use of removal equipment, vehicle safety, incident reporting and customer care. New starters are given an induction that covers health and safety expectations and procedures.

Ongoing training and refreshers are provided as needed, particularly when new equipment, vehicles or working methods are introduced. Supervisors and senior team members monitor performance on site and provide guidance to help maintain safe standards.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, injuries, near misses and damage to property or vehicles must be reported to management as soon as possible. We record and investigate incidents to understand their causes and to prevent recurrence.

Our team members are briefed on what to do in an emergency, including responding to injuries, fires, road traffic incidents or sudden changes in conditions at a property. Where appropriate, we cooperate fully with emergency services and site managers.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Man with Van Barnet is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety. We regularly review our procedures, risk assessments and training in light of experience, changes in legislation, customer feedback and developments in best practice for removal companies.

This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed periodically and updated when necessary to ensure it remains relevant, effective and aligned with our goal of providing a safe and reliable man and van service for all customers.