Health and Safety policy

Man with Van Paddington Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Paddington is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our customers, employees, contractors, and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out the principles and procedures we follow to manage risks associated with our removal and transport services, including loading, unloading, packing, and driving.

Our objective is to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to property by identifying hazards, reducing risks, and promoting a strong safety culture throughout our operations.

Health and Safety Responsibilities

Health and safety is a shared responsibility at Man with Van Paddington. Management is responsible for putting in place appropriate systems, policies, and resources, while all workers are responsible for following safe working practices and reporting concerns.

Management will: carry out regular risk assessments for removal and transport activities, provide suitable tools and equipment for safe lifting and moving, ensure that vehicles are maintained and inspected, and supply relevant information and guidance on safe working methods.

Employees and contractors will: take reasonable care of their own health and safety, follow training, instructions, and procedures, use equipment correctly, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, report hazards, accidents, or near misses, and cooperate with management in implementing this policy.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

We assess risks involved in our services, including domestic and commercial moves, item transportation, and handling of furniture and equipment. Before each job, our team will consider access routes, staircases, lifts, parking arrangements, and the nature and weight of items to be moved. Where additional risks are identified, we will adjust our work methods, team size, or equipment.

Safe systems of work will be followed to minimise the risk of injury. This includes planning the order of loading and unloading, using appropriate handling techniques, and avoiding rushed or unsafe practices. Where necessary, we may refuse to move items if the risk is judged unacceptably high, or if safe handling is not reasonably practicable.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of our removal services, and it is a key area of our safety management. Our team is instructed in safe lifting techniques and correct body posture to reduce the risk of strain or injury. Heavy or bulky items are lifted by more than one person where appropriate, and mechanical aids such as trolleys or sliders are used when available and suitable.

We always aim to: assess the weight and stability of items before lifting, plan the route and clear obstacles, keep loads close to the body when carrying, avoid twisting and sudden movements, and take breaks when necessary during physically demanding work. Customers may be asked not to assist with heavy lifting if we believe it could put them at risk.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are central to our service, and their safe operation is essential to protect our staff and other road users. We aim to keep our vehicles in roadworthy condition through regular checks and maintenance. Drivers are expected to comply with road traffic laws and to drive in a considerate and defensive manner.

Before each journey, drivers will check that loads are distributed evenly and secured to prevent shifting during transit. Parking and unloading locations will be chosen, where possible, to minimise risks to pedestrians and traffic. We do not tolerate driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that impairs performance.

Customer Premises and Property Protection

Many of our jobs take place in residential and commercial premises. We take care to protect customers, their property, and our workers while on site. Where appropriate, protective materials such as blankets, covers, or floor protection will be used to reduce the risk of damage or slips.

We will keep walkways as clear as possible during moves, avoid blocking emergency exits, and ensure that tools and equipment are stored safely while in use. Customers are requested to keep children and pets away from work areas and to inform us of any known hazards, such as loose flooring, low ceilings, or restricted access.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to management as soon as possible. This allows us to investigate the circumstances, take corrective action, and prevent recurrences. We maintain records of incidents and use them to review and improve our safety practices.

In the event of an emergency, such as an injury, fire, or serious vehicle incident, our staff will prioritise the safety of all persons involved. Emergency services will be contacted where required, and customers will be kept informed of any actions affecting them or their property.

Training, Information, and Supervision

We are committed to providing our team with appropriate information and guidance related to health and safety. This includes instruction on manual handling, vehicle safety, use of equipment, and site-specific risks. New staff members receive induction guidance relevant to their role and level of responsibility.

Supervisors and more experienced team members are expected to support newer staff in safe working practices. Where necessary, work will be monitored to ensure that agreed methods and safety precautions are followed.

Consultation and Continuous Improvement

We encourage open communication about health and safety matters. Workers are invited to raise concerns, suggest improvements, and report any issues that could affect safety during removal and transport operations. We will review this policy periodically and update it where needed to reflect changes in our services, working methods, or legal requirements.

By choosing Man with Van Paddington, customers can expect a service that takes health, safety, and property protection seriously throughout every stage of the move.