Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Brimsdown
Man with Van Brimsdown is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our team members, customers and the general public. This Health and Safety policy sets out the principles and procedures we follow to manage risks associated with removals, transportation, loading and unloading of goods, and related services carried out in our operating area.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with the company management of Man with Van Brimsdown. Management ensures that appropriate resources, training and supervision are in place to support safe working practices across all removal and transport activities.
Every worker, whether employed or subcontracted, is responsible for following safe systems of work, using equipment correctly, reporting hazards, and cooperating with supervisors. Customers are asked to support safe operations by following reasonable instructions on access, parking, and item preparation.
Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work
We identify and manage risks by carrying out suitable and proportionate risk assessments for our services. These assessments consider typical hazards such as manual handling of heavy items, trips and falls, vehicle movement, use of lifting equipment and working in confined or shared spaces.
Where significant risks are identified, we implement control measures such as using appropriate lifting techniques, team lifts for heavy or awkward items, using trolleys or moving equipment, planning access routes and ensuring clear communication among team members. Safe systems of work are reviewed periodically and whenever there is a significant change in our activities or equipment.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is a core part of our removal and delivery work, and we recognise the risk of injury if it is not managed correctly. All team members receive guidance on safe lifting techniques, including assessment of load weight, stability and the surrounding area before lifting.
Where possible, we avoid single-person lifts of heavy items and use two-person lifts or handling equipment such as dollies, sack barrows and moving straps. Items are packed and secured to reduce the risk of shifting loads and to make them easier to handle safely. Workers are instructed not to exceed their personal limits and to ask for assistance whenever necessary.
Vehicle and Driving Safety
Our vehicles are essential to our services, and their safe operation is a priority. Vehicles used by Man with Van Brimsdown are maintained in a roadworthy condition with regular checks on brakes, tyres, lights and securing points within the load area.
Drivers must hold the appropriate licence, comply with road traffic laws and follow safe driving practices, including respectful interaction with other road users. Loads are distributed evenly and secured to prevent movement during transit. Parking and unloading locations are chosen to minimise risk to staff, customers and the public, even if this means adjusting loading plans or schedules.
Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment
We provide and maintain suitable tools and equipment for removal work, including trolleys, ramps, straps and protective coverings. Equipment is inspected regularly for damage or defects, and any faulty items are taken out of service until repaired or replaced.
Where the risk assessment identifies a need, appropriate personal protective equipment may be used, such as gloves for handling rough materials or safety footwear to protect against dropped items. Workers are trained in the correct use of equipment and instructed to report any equipment concerns immediately.
Workplace and Customer Premises Safety
Our teams often operate at customer homes, offices and other premises. On arrival, the team will assess access routes, staircases, corridors and loading points for potential hazards such as obstructions, poor lighting, uneven surfaces or wet floors.
Where necessary, we will take reasonable steps to manage these risks, which may include clearing walkways, using additional lighting or adjusting the planned route for moving items. If conditions are considered unsafe, we will consult with the customer to agree alternative arrangements before proceeding.
Training, Information and Supervision
Man with Van Brimsdown provides ongoing instruction and guidance to ensure that all workers understand this policy and the specific procedures relevant to their roles. New team members receive an introduction to our safe working practices before carrying out unsupervised work.
Supervisors are responsible for monitoring working methods on site, giving practical guidance and correcting unsafe behaviours. Refresher training or additional briefings may be given when new risks are identified, new equipment is introduced or there are changes to our operating procedures.
Accident, Incident and Near Miss Reporting
All accidents, incidents and near misses related to our operations must be reported promptly to management. We keep appropriate records and, where applicable, comply with relevant reporting obligations.
Each report is reviewed to identify underlying causes and opportunities for improvement. Where required, we will update our risk assessments, training or working procedures to prevent recurrence and enhance the safety of our staff and customers.
Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work
We recognise the importance of general health and fitness in carrying out removal work safely. Team members are expected to attend work in a fit state, free from the influence of alcohol or illegal substances, and to inform management of any health conditions that may affect their ability to work safely.
Regular breaks are encouraged during demanding tasks and hot or cold weather conditions are taken into account when planning work. Reasonable adjustments may be considered for workers with specific health needs where compatible with safe operations.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Man with Van Brimsdown is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. We review this policy on a regular basis and whenever there are significant changes in legislation, our activities, vehicles or equipment.
Feedback from workers and customers regarding safety concerns or suggestions is welcomed and will be considered as part of our review process. By working together and following the principles in this policy, we aim to ensure that our removal and transport services are delivered in a safe, responsible and professional manner.
