Removal Van Tooting Health and Safety Policy
Removal Van Tooting is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, customers, contractors and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with removals, transportation, loading and unloading, and all related activities carried out by our team.
Our aim is to prevent accidents, injuries and work-related ill health by identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing effective control measures. We comply with relevant health and safety legislation and continually work to improve our standards and performance.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for health and safety lies with the company management. They ensure that adequate resources, information, training and supervision are provided so that work can be carried out safely and without risks to health.
Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for implementing this policy on a day-to-day basis, ensuring that staff follow safe systems of work, use equipment correctly and report any hazards or incidents promptly.
All employees have a duty to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. Staff must cooperate with company procedures, use personal protective equipment when required and immediately report any unsafe conditions, near misses, injuries or damage to property.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We carry out regular risk assessments for our removal and transport activities, including domestic moves, office moves and other related services. These assessments identify potential hazards such as manual handling, slips and trips, working in confined spaces, vehicle movements and loading operations.
Based on the findings of these assessments, we implement safe systems of work that may include team lifting procedures, use of handling aids, careful route planning, clear communication protocols and designated loading areas. Risk assessments are reviewed periodically and following any significant changes in processes, equipment or locations.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is a key part of removal work and is carefully controlled to protect our staff and customers. Our team members are trained in correct lifting techniques and in how to assess the weight, size and stability of items before moving them.
Wherever practical, we use handling equipment such as trolleys, dollies and straps to reduce strain and the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Heavy or awkward items are moved by a team of operatives rather than by individuals working alone. Staff are instructed never to exceed safe lifting limits and to stop work immediately if they believe a task cannot be completed safely.
Vehicle Safety and Loading
Our vehicles are maintained in good working order and inspected regularly in line with legal requirements and company procedures. Drivers are competent, appropriately licensed and trained in safe driving techniques, load security and route planning.
All goods are loaded securely to prevent shifting during transit. Heavy items are placed low and evenly distributed, with appropriate restraints used when necessary. Access to loading areas is kept clear and controlled to minimise the risk of slips, trips and collisions. Engines are switched off where possible during loading and unloading to reduce fumes and noise.
Customer, Property and Public Protection
We take care to protect customers, their property and the public during all removals. Floors, doors and other vulnerable surfaces are protected where necessary to reduce the risk of damage and trip hazards. Pathways and stairways are kept clear while work is carried out.
Our staff work in a considerate and professional manner at all times, maintaining good communication with customers about access routes, timing of work and any temporary restrictions required for safety. We aim to minimise disruption, noise and obstruction to neighbours and the local area.
Equipment, Tools and Personal Protective Equipment
Only suitable and well-maintained equipment is used for removal activities. Regular checks are carried out on vehicles, lifting equipment and tools, and any defects are reported and addressed promptly. Faulty equipment is taken out of service until it can be repaired or replaced.
Where risks cannot be fully eliminated, appropriate personal protective equipment is provided, such as gloves, safety footwear and high-visibility clothing. Staff are trained in the correct use, care and storage of this equipment and must wear it as instructed.
Training, Information and Supervision
We provide relevant health and safety training to all employees, including induction training for new staff and task-specific training for removal activities. Topics may include manual handling, vehicle safety, equipment use, incident reporting and emergency procedures.
Information about hazards and safe systems of work is communicated clearly, and supervisors monitor working practices to ensure that procedures are followed. Additional training or refresher sessions are provided when new equipment is introduced, when risks change or where improvements are identified.
Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
All accidents, near misses, injuries and damage to property are reported and recorded. Investigations are carried out where necessary to identify root causes and to prevent recurrence. Lessons learned are shared with staff and used to update risk assessments and procedures.
Emergency arrangements are in place for dealing with incidents such as injuries, fire, vehicle breakdowns and road traffic collisions. Staff are briefed on how to summon assistance, how to secure the scene and how to protect themselves, customers and the public in an emergency.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Removal Van Tooting is committed to continually improving its health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly to ensure it remains effective, reflects current legislation and best practice, and supports the safe delivery of our removal services across our operating area.
Feedback from employees and customers is welcomed and used to improve our working practices. Any suggestions or concerns relating to health and safety are taken seriously and considered as part of our ongoing review process.
This Health and Safety Policy applies to all staff and activities of Removal Van Tooting and should be read, understood and followed by everyone working on behalf of the company.
