Man with Van Cudham Health and Safety Policy
Man with Van Cudham is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our customers, employees, subcontractors and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks during removals, collections, deliveries and related van services undertaken across our operating area.
Our aim is to prevent injury, ill health and damage to property by identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing sensible control measures in all aspects of our work.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with the management of Man with Van Cudham. Management will ensure that appropriate arrangements, resources and training are in place to maintain high safety standards.
All employees, drivers, porters and subcontractors 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 while at work.
Follow all safety instructions, safe systems of work and risk assessments issued by Man with Van Cudham.
Use equipment, tools and vehicles in accordance with training and instructions.
Report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions and health concerns promptly to management.
Cooperate with management to enable compliance with health and safety requirements.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We carry out risk assessments for our typical activities, including domestic and commercial removals, loading and unloading, furniture handling, and transporting goods in vans. Site-specific assessments may be completed where conditions require it, such as limited access, heavy items, high-rise properties or particular customer needs.
From these assessments we develop safe systems of work to control risks, which may include:
Planning access routes, parking positions and loading areas to reduce reversing and vehicle movement risks.
Assessing the weight, size and stability of items before lifting or moving them.
Using correct manual handling techniques and team lifting where appropriate.
Using trolleys, dollies, lifting straps and other aids when beneficial.
Protecting floors, walls, stairs and doorways to minimise damage and tripping hazards.
Keeping work areas as clear as reasonably practicable from obstacles and spillages.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is a key part of our removals work and is a primary focus for risk control. All staff involved in lifting and carrying are given guidance and instruction on:
Assessing the load before lifting and asking for assistance with heavy or awkward items.
Using proper posture and lifting techniques to minimise strain.
Avoiding twisting, over-reaching or sudden movements while carrying loads.
Placing loads down safely and in stable positions.
Never attempting to exceed personal limits or the safe capacity of equipment.
Where possible, we will break down large items, remove drawers or disassemble furniture to make handling safer.
Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards
Our drivers are responsible for the safe operation of company vehicles at all times. We require that:
Drivers hold a valid driving licence appropriate to the vehicle used.
Vehicles are inspected regularly and any defects reported immediately.
Loads are distributed evenly and secured properly to prevent movement during transit.
Access, loading and unloading areas are checked for hazards before manoeuvring.
Speed limits and traffic regulations are followed at all times.
Drivers do not work excessive hours that could lead to fatigue and unsafe driving.
Smoking, alcohol and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited while operating vehicles or carrying out any work duties.
Protection of Customers, Public and Property
We will take reasonable steps to protect our customers, their property and members of the public during our work by:
Communicating clearly with customers about timings, access and any restrictions.
Positioning vehicles so as to minimise obstruction and risk to pedestrians and other road users.
Using warning signals or verbal communication when moving large items in shared or public areas.
Respecting customer premises and using coverings, padding and securing straps to reduce the likelihood of damage.
Maintaining professional conduct at all times on site and in public areas.
Training, Information and Supervision
Man with Van Cudham provides appropriate training, information and supervision to enable staff to work safely, including:
Induction training covering company health and safety expectations and emergency procedures.
Instruction on manual handling, safe lifting and correct use of handling equipment.
Guidance on safe driving practices, loading techniques and vehicle checks.
Ongoing briefings where new risks, equipment or procedures are introduced.
Supervision appropriate to the experience and competence of staff, especially new team members.
Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment
We will provide and maintain suitable equipment for our removal activities, such as trolleys, dollies, ramps, straps and blankets. All equipment must be inspected regularly and removed from use if damaged or unsafe.
Where necessary, personal protective equipment may be provided, such as gloves, high-visibility garments or safety footwear. Staff are required to use such equipment correctly and report any defects or concerns immediately.
Accidents, Incidents and First Aid
All accidents, injuries, near misses and property damage incidents must be reported to management without delay. This enables us to take prompt action, investigate causes and prevent recurrence.
Basic first aid provisions are available within our vehicles or at base. Where required, emergency services will be contacted and access routes kept clear for their arrival.
Health, Welfare and Fitness for Work
We recognise the physically demanding nature of removal work. We expect staff to present themselves fit for duty and to notify management of any condition that could affect their ability to work safely. This includes fatigue, illness, injury or the effects of medication that may impair judgement, strength or coordination.
We do not tolerate working under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Any such behaviour will result in removal from duty and may lead to disciplinary action.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Man with Van Cudham is committed to continual improvement in health and safety performance. We will review this policy regularly and update it as required by changes in our operations, working practices or applicable standards.
We welcome feedback from employees and customers on any health and safety concerns or suggestions for improvement. By working together and maintaining high standards, we aim to provide a safe, reliable and professional removals and van service throughout our service area.
