Health and Safety policy

Hounslow Man and Van Health and Safety Policy

Hounslow Man and Van is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, customers, and members of the public affected by our removal and transport activities. This policy sets out the principles and arrangements we follow to manage health and safety across all removal, delivery, and related services.

Policy Statement and Objectives

Our objective is to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property during all moving and handling operations. We will identify and control risks arising from our work, comply with relevant health and safety legislation, and continuously improve our standards. Health and safety is an integral part of our business planning and day-to-day operations.

Management Responsibilities

Management is responsible for leading by example and ensuring that health and safety considerations are built into all planning of removal and transportation work. This includes assessing risks for each job, providing suitable equipment, arranging appropriate training, and monitoring working practices. Managers will review the effectiveness of this policy regularly and update procedures when needed.

Employee Responsibilities

Every employee has a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. Staff must follow company procedures, use equipment correctly, and report hazards, incidents, near-misses, or concerns to management without delay. Employees are expected to cooperate with training, risk assessments, and any control measures that are introduced to reduce risk.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before each removal or transport task, we consider the specific risks involved, including manual handling, vehicle movements, access issues, weather conditions, and the nature of items being moved. Where required, a formal risk assessment is completed, and safe systems of work are developed. Staff are briefed on any particular risks identified at the location, such as stairs, narrow access, busy roads, or shared loading areas.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Lifting, carrying, and moving items are at the core of our services. We recognise the potential for musculoskeletal injuries and other harm if these tasks are not carried out safely. All staff receive guidance in safe lifting techniques and correct body posture. Wherever possible we use equipment such as trolleys, dollies, lifting straps, and ramps to minimise manual handling. Heavy or awkward items are only moved by sufficient numbers of trained staff, and lifting beyond safe limits is not permitted under any circumstances.

Use of Vehicles and Driving Safety

Our vehicles are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition, with regular checks carried out in line with manufacturer guidance and legal requirements. Drivers must hold appropriate licences, comply with road traffic laws, and follow company rules on safe driving, including speed limits, rest breaks, and the avoidance of distractions. Loads are secured properly to prevent movement during transit, and vehicles are loaded within safe weight limits.

Customer Premises and Public Safety

When working at customer premises or in public areas, we take steps to protect customers, neighbours, and passers-by. This includes keeping access routes clear, using caution when carrying large items, and taking care around doorways, corridors, staircases, and communal areas. We will seek the customer’s cooperation in keeping pets, children, and other individuals away from active moving zones while removal work is underway.

Equipment, Tools, and Maintenance

All equipment used in our removal operations, including trolleys, ramps, and protective materials, is selected to be suitable for the task and is maintained in good condition. Faulty or damaged equipment must not be used and must be reported immediately for repair or replacement. Staff are instructed in correct use, storage, and inspection of equipment to ensure it remains safe.

Personal Protective Equipment

Where the nature of the work requires it, we provide personal protective equipment such as safety footwear, gloves, and high-visibility clothing. Employees must use this equipment as instructed and keep it in good condition. Any defects or issues with personal protective equipment must be reported so that items can be repaired or replaced.

Training, Information, and Supervision

We provide appropriate health and safety training relevant to each role, including induction training for new starters and task-specific instruction for particular types of removal work. Staff receive information on safe working methods, emergency procedures, and the correct use of equipment. Supervisors monitor working practices and provide guidance, coaching, and correction where needed to maintain standards.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, injuries, near-misses, or damage to property that occur during our activities must be reported as soon as possible. We investigate incidents to establish causes and identify improvements to prevent recurrence. Emergency procedures are in place for fire, serious injury, and other significant events. Employees are made aware of how to respond in emergencies, including how to summon assistance and protect those nearby.

Wellbeing and Fitness for Work

We recognise the physical nature of removal work and the importance of staff being fit for duty. Employees must not work while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that could impair judgment or physical capability. Where staff have medical conditions or injuries that may affect their ability to carry out tasks safely, they must inform management so that appropriate adjustments can be considered.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Hounslow Man and Van is committed to continually improving health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly, and sooner if there are significant changes in our operations or in relevant legislation. Feedback from employees and customers is encouraged and is used to refine our procedures and working methods. By working together and maintaining a strong safety culture, we aim to deliver reliable removal and transport services while protecting everyone involved.