Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Kenton
Man with Van Kenton is committed to conducting all removal and transport activities in a way that safeguards the health, safety and welfare of our customers, our workers and any other persons who may be affected by our operations. This policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with moving, loading, transporting and unloading goods in our service areas.
Our Health and Safety Objectives
Our key health and safety objectives are to prevent injury, ill health, property damage and unsafe practices during removals and related services. We aim to create a safe working environment in vehicles, at customer premises, in public spaces and at any other locations where our services are carried out.
We will regularly review our performance and adjust procedures where necessary to improve safety standards and working conditions.
Management Responsibilities
Management at Man with Van Kenton is responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring that appropriate resources are available to maintain safe working practices. This includes providing suitable equipment, arranging relevant training, and monitoring compliance with safety procedures.
Managers will assess risks before work begins, especially when planning large or complex removals. They will ensure that tasks are allocated to staff who are competent and physically able to perform them safely, and that any specific hazards are communicated clearly.
Employee Responsibilities
All workers engaged by Man with Van Kenton must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. Employees are required to follow the safety guidance provided during training, use equipment properly and cooperate with all health and safety measures.
Staff must report hazards, near misses, accidents, damage to equipment, or unsafe conditions immediately so that corrective action can be taken. No employee is expected to carry out any task that they believe poses an unacceptable risk to themselves or others.
Risk Assessment and Planning
For each removal or delivery job, appropriate risk assessments will be undertaken to identify potential hazards. This may include reviewing access routes, parking arrangements, stairs, lifts, restricted spaces, heavy or awkward items, and any specific customer requirements.
Where significant risks are identified, additional control measures will be put in place, such as using more staff, employing specialised lifting techniques, or using mechanical aids. We will adapt schedules and methods where needed to avoid rushing and to ensure that work can be carried out safely.
Safe Lifting and Manual Handling
Manual handling is a core aspect of removal services and a key area of risk. Man with Van Kenton trains staff in safe lifting techniques, including correct posture, team lifting methods and the use of trolleys, straps, blankets and other aids where appropriate.
Employees are instructed not to lift or carry loads that are too heavy, unstable or awkward for them, and to seek assistance or an alternative method when needed. Items are packed, wrapped and secured in vehicles to reduce shifting during transit and to protect both staff and customers property.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
All vehicles used by Man with Van Kenton must be roadworthy, regularly maintained and suitable for the loads carried. Drivers are required to perform basic safety checks before each journey and to follow all road traffic laws and safe driving practices.
Loads must be properly distributed and secured to avoid movement, instability or obstruction of driver visibility. Drivers will plan routes to minimise risk, taking into account road conditions, low bridges, restricted zones, traffic and weather where relevant.
Working at Customer Premises
When working at homes, offices or other premises, our staff will take care to protect the safety of customers, visitors and the general public. This includes keeping walkways as clear as reasonably practicable, using caution when carrying large items through doorways, and remaining alert to children, pets and other vulnerable persons.
Protective coverings may be used for floors, doors and bannisters where appropriate to minimise risk of slips, trips and damage. Staff will seek permission before moving fixtures or fittings and will notify customers of any hazards that cannot immediately be removed.
Equipment and Personal Protective Measures
Man with Van Kenton will provide and maintain appropriate tools and equipment for safe removals, such as trolleys, moving straps and blankets. Where required by the nature of the work or the environment, staff may use personal protective equipment such as gloves or protective footwear.
Employees are responsible for using equipment in line with training and for reporting any defects or damage so that items can be repaired or removed from use.
Training, Information and Supervision
All staff receive suitable induction training covering safe lifting, vehicle safety, emergency procedures and customer care. Further training is provided where necessary, for example when new equipment or methods are introduced or when staff take on additional responsibilities.
Supervision is proportionate to the level of risk and the experience of the workers involved. Less experienced staff are supported and monitored until they are able to work safely with greater independence.
Accident Reporting and Investigation
All accidents, incidents and near misses must be reported to management as soon as possible. Records will be kept and reviewed to identify any patterns or underlying causes, and appropriate actions will be taken to prevent recurrence.
Where necessary, procedures, equipment or training will be updated in light of incident findings. We encourage open communication and do not tolerate any form of victimisation for reporting safety concerns.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Man with Van Kenton is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. This policy and the procedures supporting it will be reviewed regularly and updated when there are significant changes in our activities, legal duties or best practice guidance.
All employees and contractors are expected to familiarise themselves with this policy and to contribute positively to a safe and responsible removal service across our operating areas.
