Health and Safety policy
Man and a Van Brompton Health and Safety Policy
Man and a Van Brompton is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, customers and members of the public who may be affected by our house and office removals, deliveries and related services. Our objective is to prevent accidents, reduce risks and ensure that health, safety and welfare are integral to everything we do.
This policy applies to all employees and workers engaged in removal, packing, loading, unloading, driving, customer service and site visits. It covers services carried out at customer premises, on the road and at any locations where we operate.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with the company management, who ensure that adequate resources, training and supervision are provided. Management will review this policy regularly and update it in line with changes to legislation, good practice and operational needs.
Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for implementing this policy on a day-to-day basis, including briefing staff on safe systems of work, monitoring performance and addressing unsafe behaviour or conditions promptly.
All employees and workers have a duty to care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Everyone must cooperate with management by following safety instructions, using equipment properly and reporting hazards, accidents and near misses without delay.
Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work
Before undertaking removal and delivery tasks, we carry out risk assessments to identify hazards and determine appropriate control measures. This includes assessing access routes, parking and loading areas, staircases, lifts, floor conditions and any specific customer requirements.
Based on these assessments we develop and apply safe systems of work, including manual handling techniques, use of lifting aids, methods for moving heavy or bulky items, and procedures for working in confined or shared spaces such as corridors and communal entrances.
Where conditions change or new risks are identified, risk assessments will be reviewed and working methods adjusted accordingly. Staff are encouraged to raise concerns and suggest improvements to enhance safety.
Manual Handling and Use of Equipment
Manual handling is a key part of removal operations, and it presents a significant risk of injury if not controlled. We provide training on correct lifting and carrying techniques, team lifting, load assessment and the importance of avoiding unnecessary manual handling.
Suitable handling equipment, such as trolleys, skates, straps and blankets, is provided and maintained in good condition. Workers must use such equipment whenever it is available and appropriate, and must not improvise with unsafe alternatives.
Equipment and vehicle checks are carried out regularly. Any defects or damage must be reported immediately so that items can be repaired or removed from service. No one may use equipment for which they have not received adequate instruction.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
Our drivers and assistants must comply with all road safety laws and drive responsibly at all times. Safe loading of vehicles is essential to prevent shifting loads, damage to property and accidents. Loads must be secured using appropriate restraints, and weight limits and distribution must be respected.
Drivers must carry out basic pre-use vehicle checks, such as tyres, lights and securing mechanisms, and must report any concerns. Driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any substance that impairs performance is strictly prohibited.
Journey planning should allow sufficient time to avoid rushing and unsafe manoeuvres. Drivers and crew must follow parking rules and consider the safety of pedestrians, customers and other road users when positioning vehicles for loading and unloading.
Customer Premises and Public Safety
Our teams work in and around customer homes, offices and shared spaces, and must take care to protect both people and property. Walkways and exits should be kept clear wherever possible, and any temporary obstructions must be clearly communicated to those present.
When carrying items through communal areas, stairwells or pavements, staff must be alert to the presence of others and, where necessary, use spotters to guide larger items safely. Appropriate caution signs may be used if floors are at risk of becoming slippery or hazardous.
We aim to minimise noise, disruption and any risk of damage to fixtures, fittings and neighbouring properties. Any incident that results in damage or potential injury must be reported to management promptly so it can be investigated and addressed.
Training, Information and Supervision
We provide induction and ongoing training to ensure that all staff understand the health and safety requirements associated with removals work. Training includes manual handling, equipment use, basic vehicle safety, hazard awareness and incident reporting procedures.
Information on site-specific risks and customer instructions is shared through briefings and job documentation. New or less experienced staff are supervised closely until they are competent to work more independently.
Refresher training is delivered as needed, particularly following changes to equipment, procedures or legislation, or after any significant incident or near miss.
Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
All accidents, injuries, near misses and dangerous occurrences must be reported as soon as practicable to management. Accurate records are kept and reviewed to identify patterns and opportunities for prevention.
In the event of an emergency, such as fire, serious injury or road traffic incident, staff must follow emergency services guidance and company procedures. This includes securing the area where safe to do so, warning others, and cooperating fully with emergency responders.
First aid provisions are maintained in vehicles or at suitable locations, and designated staff are trained to provide basic first aid where required. Any use of first aid supplies is recorded and replenished promptly.
Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work
We recognise the physical demands of removal work and are committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our staff. Employees are expected to present for work fit to perform their duties safely and to inform management of any health issues that may impact their ability to work safely, particularly musculoskeletal conditions.
We do not tolerate the use of alcohol or illegal drugs while at work or on call. Prescription medications that may affect alertness or coordination must be disclosed so that appropriate adjustments or alternative duties can be considered.
Reasonable arrangements are made for rest breaks, access to drinking water and use of welfare facilities during the working day, taking into account the mobile nature of our work.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Man and a Van Brompton is committed to continual improvement in health and safety performance. We actively seek feedback from staff and customers on safety matters and use it to refine our procedures, training and risk controls.
This policy is reviewed periodically and whenever significant changes occur in our operations or relevant legislation. Updated versions are communicated to all employees and workers so that they remain aware of their responsibilities and the standards expected.
By working together and following this policy, we aim to deliver our moving and transport services efficiently while protecting the health, safety and welfare of everyone involved.
