Health and Safety policy
Man and a Van Queen's Park Health and Safety Policy
Man and a Van Queen's Park is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, and customers. This Health and Safety policy sets out the principles and procedures that guide our work during all removals, deliveries, and related transport services within our operating area.
Our Commitment to Health and Safety
We recognise our responsibility to manage health and safety risks associated with moving, lifting, loading, and transporting customers' belongings. We aim to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to property by planning our work carefully, training our staff effectively, and maintaining equipment to a high standard.
Health and safety considerations form an integral part of all our activities, from the initial booking and site assessment through to the completion of each move.
Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with the management of Man and a Van Queen's Park. Management ensures that appropriate arrangements, resources, and training are in place to implement this policy.
All employees and contractors have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. This includes following our procedures, using equipment correctly, and reporting hazards, near misses, or incidents without delay.
Risk Assessment and Planning
Before each removal or delivery, we consider the specific risks involved in the job. This may include assessing access routes, stairs, lifts, parking, loading points, and the size and weight of items to be moved. Where necessary, additional resources or equipment will be arranged to carry out the work safely.
We seek relevant information from customers in advance, such as restricted access, fragile items, or unusual loads, so we can plan safe handling methods and allocate sufficient time and staff for the task.
Safe Manual Handling and Lifting
Moving and lifting furniture and other items is central to our work, and we place strong emphasis on safe manual handling. Staff are trained in correct lifting techniques, including how to assess the load, when to team lift, and when to use mechanical aids or additional assistance.
We avoid excessive lifting wherever possible by using equipment such as trolleys, sack trucks, and straps. Heavy, awkward, or bulky items are only moved by suitably trained and physically able team members following agreed methods. Staff are encouraged to refuse any lift they consider unsafe and to request support or different arrangements.
Use of Vehicles and Driving Safety
Our vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition and inspected regularly. Drivers are required to hold appropriate licences, follow road traffic laws, and drive with care and consideration for other road users and pedestrians.
Loading and unloading are carried out in a way that minimises risk to staff, customers, and the public. Loads must be properly secured within the vehicle to prevent movement during transit. Drivers are responsible for checking that doors are closed securely and that access to emergency exits and equipment is not obstructed.
Equipment and Maintenance
All tools and equipment used during removals and deliveries, including lifting aids, straps, protective blankets, and trolleys, are maintained in good working order. Defective or damaged equipment must be reported immediately and taken out of use until repaired or replaced.
Protective measures, such as corner protectors and floor coverings, may be used to reduce the risk of damage and trip hazards during moves in residential and commercial premises.
Protection of Customers and the Public
We take reasonable steps to protect customers, visitors, and members of the public from risks arising from our work. This includes keeping walkways as clear as possible, using safe lifting routes, and communicating clearly with anyone present during the move.
Where access is restricted or work takes place near public areas, our team will take extra care to control hazards such as moving vehicles, open doors, and temporary obstructions.
Training, Information, and Supervision
Employees receive appropriate induction and ongoing training in health and safety procedures relevant to their roles. This includes manual handling, safe use of equipment, vehicle safety, and reporting procedures.
Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for monitoring work practices on site and intervening if unsafe behaviour or conditions are identified. Learning from any incidents or near misses is shared within the team to prevent recurrence.
Incident and Accident Reporting
All accidents, injuries, near misses, and property damage occurring during our operations must be reported to management as soon as practicable. We investigate such events to identify root causes and implement appropriate corrective actions.
Records of incidents are maintained and reviewed periodically to identify trends and opportunities for improvement in our working practices and training.
Communication with Customers
We encourage customers to inform us about any particular risks at their premises, such as loose flooring, low ceilings, narrow staircases, or restricted parking, so that we can manage these safely. Customers may also be asked to keep children, pets, and non-essential persons away from active moving and loading areas.
Where a requested task cannot be carried out safely, we will discuss alternative approaches with the customer, which may include different moving methods, additional staff, or revised scheduling.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Man and a Van Queen's Park is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. We review this policy at regular intervals, and when there are significant changes in our operations, relevant legislation, or industry best practice.
Any updates to procedures or safety requirements are communicated to staff and, where appropriate, to customers. By working together and maintaining a strong safety culture, we aim to deliver reliable and safe removal services throughout our service area.
