Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Colyers

Man with Van Colyers is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, customers, contractors, and members of the public. This policy sets out our approach to managing health and safety in all removal, moving, and man and van activities carried out by our company.

Our Health and Safety Objectives

We aim to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property by identifying and controlling risks associated with household removals, furniture transport, loading, unloading, and related services. We seek continuous improvement in our health and safety performance through training, supervision, and regular reviews of our procedures.

Legal Responsibilities and Compliance

Man with Van Colyers will comply with all applicable health and safety laws and regulations relevant to our operations. We recognise our duty to provide safe systems of work, appropriate equipment, information, instruction, and training. We expect all employees and contractors to cooperate fully in meeting these obligations and to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their work.

Management Responsibilities

Management is responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring that health and safety is integrated into everyday decision-making. This includes planning work to minimise risk, carrying out risk assessments for removal activities, and providing adequate resources to manage safety effectively. Managers and supervisors must ensure that staff understand this policy, follow company procedures, and report any hazards or incidents promptly.

Employee Responsibilities

All employees, including drivers, porters, and removal operatives, share responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment. Staff must follow instructions, use equipment correctly, wear any personal protective equipment provided, and report unsafe conditions or practices without delay. Employees must not engage in horseplay, misuse equipment, or undertake tasks for which they have not been trained or authorised.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before starting any job, we assess potential hazards associated with manual handling, vehicle movements, access to properties, stairs, lifts, and the handling of bulky or fragile items. We consider environmental factors such as weather, lighting, floor conditions, and traffic. Based on this assessment, we adopt safe working methods, such as team lifting, the use of trolleys or moving equipment, and clear communication between team members.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Removals and man and van services involve frequent lifting and carrying. To reduce the risk of injury, we provide guidance and training on safe lifting techniques, including assessing the weight and shape of items, planning the route, and using appropriate lifting aids. Heavy or awkward items must be moved by more than one person or using suitable equipment. Staff must avoid overreaching, twisting while lifting, or attempting to carry loads that are beyond their capability.

Vehicles, Driving and Road Safety

Our vehicles are maintained in good working order, inspected regularly, and kept clean and safe for use. Drivers must hold the correct licence, follow road traffic laws, and drive responsibly at all times. Loads must be secured properly to prevent movement during transit and to protect both property and other road users. Drivers are required to carry out basic daily checks and to report any faults or defects immediately so that they can be addressed before the vehicle is used.

Safe Loading and Unloading

Loading and unloading activities are planned to reduce risks from moving vehicles, falling objects, or trips and slips. Where possible, vehicles are parked in a safe position with consideration for pedestrians and other traffic. Access routes are kept clear, and care is taken when moving items through doorways, up or down stairs, or near fragile surfaces. Team members must communicate clearly, especially when negotiating tight spaces or moving large items.

Protection of Customers, Public and Property

We take care to protect customers, neighbours, and the public during removal work. This may include controlling access to work areas, using warning signals when manoeuvring vehicles, and placing protective coverings on floors, banisters, and doorways where appropriate. We handle all goods with care to avoid damage and act promptly to resolve any safety concerns raised by customers on site.

Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

Man with Van Colyers provides appropriate tools and equipment for the safe handling and transport of goods, such as trolleys, straps, and blankets. Equipment is inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe and fit for purpose. Where necessary, personal protective equipment such as gloves or safety footwear is provided and must be worn in accordance with company instructions. Employees must not use damaged or unsuitable equipment and must report any defects immediately.

Training, Information and Supervision

We ensure that all staff receive adequate training relevant to their roles, including induction training, manual handling and basic health and safety awareness. Additional training is provided when new equipment, vehicles, or methods of work are introduced. Supervisors monitor working practices, provide guidance, and ensure that safety procedures are followed at all times.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, near misses, property damage and safety concerns must be reported as soon as possible to a responsible person. We record incidents, investigate their causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Staff are instructed in basic emergency procedures, including what to do in the event of fire, serious injury, or traffic incidents while on the road or at customer premises.

Health, Wellbeing and Fitness for Work

We recognise the physical nature of removal work and encourage staff to look after their health and wellbeing. Employees must not work under the influence of alcohol or drugs and must inform management if they have any medical condition that may affect their ability to carry out tasks safely. Appropriate rest breaks and sensible planning of work schedules help to reduce fatigue and maintain safe performance.

Consultation and Continuous Improvement

We consult with employees on health and safety matters and encourage suggestions for improving working practices. Feedback from staff and customers is used to refine our procedures and risk assessments. This policy is reviewed regularly and updated when necessary to reflect changes in our operations, legislation, or industry best practice.

Policy Review and Availability

This health and safety policy is communicated to all employees and is available to customers on request. It is reviewed at regular intervals, or sooner if there are significant changes to our services, working methods, or legal requirements. Man with Van Colyers is committed to maintaining high standards of safety in all moving and removal services and to continually improving our performance in protecting people, property and the environment.