Man with Van Brent Health and Safety Policy

Man with Van Brent 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 removal and delivery activities. This policy sets out the standards and procedures we follow to manage health and safety in all aspects of our work, including residential and commercial moves and associated transport services.

Our Health and Safety Objectives

Our objectives are to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property, while delivering efficient and professional moving services. We aim to identify and control risks associated with lifting, loading, transport, and working in and around customer premises. We seek continuous improvement in our health and safety performance through regular review and staff engagement.

Legal Responsibilities and Management Commitment

Man with Van Brent complies with all relevant health and safety legislation, guidance, and industry best practice applicable to moving and transport services. Management accepts overall responsibility for implementing this policy and for ensuring that adequate resources, training, and supervision are provided. Health and safety considerations form an integral part of planning every move, from small flat relocations to larger house and office removals.

Managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting a positive safety culture, leading by example, and ensuring that staff follow the procedures and safe systems of work described in this policy and related documents.

Employee Responsibilities

All staff, including drivers, porters, and temporary workers, have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Employees must:

Follow all safety instructions and training provided, use equipment correctly, report hazards, near misses, and incidents, cooperate with management on health and safety matters, and refrain from any unsafe behaviour that could put themselves, colleagues, or customers at risk.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Before carrying out removal work, we assess risks associated with the property layout, access points, parking, lifting and carrying, use of equipment, and any special items such as large furniture, appliances, or fragile goods. Where necessary, we adapt our approach to reduce risks, for example by allocating additional staff, using specialist moving equipment, or adjusting the route through the property.

We develop and maintain safe systems of work for typical removal activities, including packing and unpacking, loading and unloading vehicles, stacking and securing items, and working in confined spaces such as stairwells or narrow corridors. These systems are regularly reviewed and updated in light of experience, feedback, and changes to legal requirements.

Manual Handling and Use of Equipment

Manual handling is a significant part of removal work, and we place strong emphasis on safe lifting techniques and appropriate use of equipment. Staff receive manual handling training relevant to the moving industry, covering correct posture, team lifting, and recognition of personal limits.

We provide suitable equipment such as trolleys, dollies, straps, and protective materials to reduce physical strain and prevent damage to goods and property. Only trained personnel are permitted to use any specialist equipment. All equipment is regularly inspected, maintained, and withdrawn from service if found to be defective.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Safe operation of our vehicles is essential to protect our staff, customers, other road users, and property. Vehicles are maintained in line with manufacturer recommendations and legal requirements, with regular checks on brakes, tyres, lights, and load securing points.

Drivers are required to hold the appropriate licences and to follow road traffic laws at all times. They must drive defensively, adjust speed to road and weather conditions, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that impairs driving ability. Loads must be evenly distributed and fully secured before the vehicle moves, and doors or tailgates must remain closed and locked during transit.

Customer Premises and Public Safety

We recognise that our work often takes place in occupied homes, shared buildings, and busy public areas. Our teams take care to protect customers, neighbours, and passers-by by keeping routes clear, using warning signs or verbal notices where appropriate, and minimising obstruction to entrances, corridors, and pavements.

We take reasonable steps to prevent damage to property by using floor coverings, corner protectors, and appropriate handling techniques. Any accidents, damage, or near misses on site are reported immediately so that corrective action can be taken.

Training, Information, and Supervision

Man with Van Brent provides induction and ongoing training to ensure that all staff understand this policy, know how to perform their tasks safely, and are aware of the specific risks associated with removal work. This may include training on manual handling, use of moving equipment, safe driving, load securing, communication with customers, and emergency procedures.

Supervisors monitor working practices, correct unsafe behaviour, and provide additional guidance where necessary. Safety information is communicated clearly and promptly, and staff are encouraged to raise any concerns or suggestions for improvement.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to management as soon as practicable. We maintain records of such events and investigate them to identify root causes and implement corrective actions. Where required, incidents are reported to the relevant authorities.

Our teams are briefed on emergency procedures, including what to do in the event of injury, fire, or serious damage to property. First aid provisions are made available, and employees are encouraged to seek medical advice if they experience pain or discomfort related to manual handling or other work activities.

Fitness for Work and Welfare

We expect all staff to present themselves fit for work, free from the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. Any medication that may affect concentration, balance, or coordination must be declared so that adjustments or restrictions can be considered. Staff are encouraged to work within their physical capabilities and to request assistance when needed, rather than attempting unsafe lifts or rushed work.

We recognise the importance of rest breaks, hydration, and appropriate clothing for the conditions, particularly during demanding removal jobs or extreme weather. Where possible, schedules are planned to reduce fatigue, and staff are reminded to take reasonable rest periods.

Consultation and Continuous Improvement

We value the input of our employees in improving health and safety performance. Staff are invited to share their experiences and suggestions regarding equipment, methods of work, and workplace conditions. Feedback from customers about safety and care standards is also reviewed and used to refine our practices.

This policy is reviewed regularly and whenever there are significant changes to our operations, equipment, or legal requirements. Updated versions are communicated to all employees and made available to customers on request.

Policy Review and Availability

The health and safety policy of Man with Van Brent is approved by management and applies to all aspects of our removal and delivery services. It will be reviewed at least annually, or sooner if necessary, to ensure it remains effective and relevant. Copies of this policy are available to employees, customers, and any other interested parties upon request.