Health and Safety Policy for Man with Van Barking
Man with Van Barking is committed to maintaining the highest practical standards of health and safety for our customers, employees, subcontractors, and members of the public. This policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with domestic and commercial removals, deliveries, and related transport services within our normal operating area.
Our Health and Safety Commitment
We recognise that removal and transportation activities involve manual handling, lifting, loading and unloading of goods, and working in varied environments including homes, offices, and public streets. We are committed to preventing injury, ill health, property damage, and unnecessary disruption by planning work carefully and implementing safe systems of work at all times.
We will comply with all applicable health and safety legislation and codes of practice relevant to our services. Our aim is to continually improve our performance and promote a positive safety culture throughout the business.
Roles and Responsibilities
The management of Man with Van Barking has overall responsibility for health and safety within the company. Management will ensure that suitable resources, training, and equipment are provided so work can be carried out safely and efficiently.
All employees and subcontractors have a duty to:
Work safely and follow all instructions, training, and company procedures.
Use vehicles, tools, lifting aids, and safety equipment correctly and only for their intended purpose.
Report hazards, accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions without delay.
Cooperate with management on all matters relating to health, safety, and welfare.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Methods
We conduct risk assessments for our typical activities including loading and unloading vehicles, securing loads, moving furniture and household items, and operating in residential streets and commercial premises. Where specific jobs present unusual risks, we will carry out additional job-specific assessments.
Safe working methods will be implemented to control identified risks. These may include the use of appropriate lifting equipment, team lifting for heavy or awkward items, safe route planning to and from the vehicle, and the use of protective equipment where required. Staff are trained to assess each item before moving it and to refuse to handle any item that cannot be moved safely with the available workforce and equipment.
Manual Handling and Use of Equipment
Manual handling is a significant part of our work and presents a potential risk of injury. Man with Van Barking provides manual handling training to staff, covering correct lifting techniques, the importance of assessing weight and shape, and the need to avoid twisting or overreaching.
Where possible we use trolleys, dollies, straps, and other lifting aids to reduce strain and improve safety. Equipment is checked regularly for defects and taken out of service if damaged or unsafe. Workers must not exceed their physical limitations and must request additional assistance or equipment for heavy or bulky items.
Vehicle Safety and Load Security
Our vehicles are maintained in line with manufacturers recommendations and relevant road safety requirements. Drivers are responsible for carrying out routine checks before use, including tyres, lights, and securing equipment, and for reporting any defects immediately.
All loads must be arranged and secured to prevent movement during transit. This includes the use of straps, ties, blankets, and appropriate stacking methods. Items must not be loaded in a way that obstructs the driver’s view or access to essential safety equipment. Doors and ramps must be operated according to instructions and kept clear of bystanders while in use.
Customer Premises and Public Safety
When working at customer premises, our teams will take reasonable steps to protect people, property, and access routes. This may include using protective coverings where practical, keeping walkways clear of hazards, and communicating with customers about safe access during the move.
In public or shared areas, special care is taken to minimise obstruction and risk to others. Where necessary, staff will guide the movement of large items, temporarily restrict access to immediate work areas, and ensure that equipment is not left unattended where it may cause a trip or impact hazard.
Training, Information, and Supervision
All staff receive induction training that covers our health and safety standards, reporting procedures, and safe working methods. Additional training is provided where tasks involve higher risk activities or specialist equipment.
Supervisors and experienced team members monitor working practices on site, provide guidance to newer staff, and intervene where unsafe behaviour or conditions are identified. Refresher training may be provided when procedures change, new equipment is introduced, or where improvement is needed.
Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to management as soon as possible. We keep records of such events and use this information to investigate causes and implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence.
Our teams are briefed on how to respond in emergencies including injury, fire, or traffic incidents. This includes prioritising personal safety, contacting appropriate emergency services, and securing the work area to prevent further harm. Vehicles carry basic safety equipment appropriate to their use.
Health, Welfare, and Fitness for Work
Removal work can be physically demanding. We expect our staff to present for work in a fit condition, free from the influence of alcohol or drugs, and to notify management of any health conditions that may affect their ability to work safely.
We encourage regular breaks, proper hydration, and safe working in hot or cold conditions. Where there is a risk of fatigue, particularly on longer jobs, work will be planned to include adequate rest and rotation of tasks.
Review and Continuous Improvement
This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed regularly and updated when necessary to reflect changes in legislation, industry best practice, or the nature of our services. Feedback from employees and customers is welcomed and used to improve our procedures and performance.
By following this policy, Man with Van Barking aims to provide a reliable, efficient, and safe removal and transport service throughout our operating area, protecting the wellbeing of everyone involved in our activities.
