Health and Safety policy
Man with Van Ratcliff Health and Safety Policy
Man with Van Ratcliff is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, customers, and members of the public who may be affected by our removal and transport activities. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with moving, lifting, loading, unloading, and transporting goods for residential and commercial clients.
Our Health and Safety Objectives
Our main objectives are to prevent injury, protect health, and promote safe working practices across all removal and delivery operations. We aim to:
Identify and manage risks associated with manual handling, driving, load securing, and working in and around customers premises. Provide suitable information, instruction, and training for staff so tasks are carried out safely and professionally. Maintain vehicles, equipment, and handling aids in a safe condition. Encourage a positive health and safety culture where everyone takes responsibility for their own safety and that of others.
Legal Responsibilities and Management Commitment
Man with Van Ratcliff complies with all relevant health and safety legislation and regulations applicable to our removal and transport services. Management accepts overall responsibility for the implementation, review, and continual improvement of this policy. We allocate appropriate resources to health and safety, including time for training, maintenance, and risk assessment.
Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for enforcing safe systems of work, checking that staff follow procedures, and reporting any concerns to management. All employees and contractors have a duty to cooperate with this policy and to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others.
Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work
Before starting work at a property or site, our team will assess the area for potential hazards. This includes considering access routes, stairs, lifts, floor surfaces, lighting, parking, and any obstacles that might affect safe loading or unloading.
Where risks are identified, we put suitable controls in place, such as using extra staff, mechanical aids, alternative routes, or adjusting the method of work. Risk assessments are regularly reviewed, especially when new equipment is introduced or when we undertake unusual or particularly challenging moves.
Manual Handling and Lifting Practices
Manual handling is a core element of removal work, and we take steps to minimise the risk of strain, injury, and accidents. Our approach includes:
Providing training in safe lifting techniques, including team lifting for heavy or bulky items. Using trolleys, dollies, straps, and other handling equipment where reasonably practicable. Planning the route in and out of the property to avoid unnecessary carrying and to minimise obstacles. Refusing to lift or move items that present an unacceptable risk to staff or others.
Team members are required to use proper posture, avoid twisting while carrying, and request help when an item cannot be safely handled alone.
Vehicle Safety and Load Securing
We maintain our vehicles in a roadworthy condition and ensure they are suitable for the loads they carry. Regular checks and inspections are carried out on tyres, brakes, lights, and safety features. Any defects are reported immediately and addressed before the vehicle is used for work.
All loads are secured using appropriate methods and equipment to prevent movement during transit. Heavy items are positioned low and evenly distributed, and fragile goods are protected to minimise damage and reduce the risk of injury when unloading. Drivers are responsible for checking that doors are properly secured and that access to emergency exits and equipment is not obstructed.
Training, Information, and Supervision
We provide our staff with training relevant to their roles, including safe lifting, use of equipment, vehicle loading, and working in customers premises. Induction training is given to new starters, and refresher training is provided as needed.
Instructions and guidance are communicated clearly so that all team members understand the correct procedures. Where higher risk activities are involved, such as moving particularly heavy or awkward items, additional supervision may be provided to ensure work is completed safely.
Customer Premises and Public Safety
We take care to protect customers, visitors, and the general public during our work. This includes keeping routes clear of trip hazards, using safe parking and unloading areas where possible, and taking extra care in shared spaces such as corridors, entrances, and pavements.
Where necessary, we may ask customers or others to keep clear of work areas while heavy items are being moved. We are committed to treating every property with respect, avoiding damage, and leaving areas tidy and free from obstructions that could cause accidents.
Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment
We provide and maintain suitable equipment to support safe working, including trolleys, blankets, straps, and protective materials. Equipment is inspected regularly, and any damaged or defective items are removed from use until repaired or replaced.
Where tasks require it, personal protective equipment such as gloves or safety footwear is supplied. Staff are required to use equipment and protective gear correctly and to report any concerns immediately.
Accident Reporting and Incident Investigation
All accidents, near misses, or dangerous occurrences must be reported to management as soon as possible. We record and investigate incidents to identify causes and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
Lessons learned from incidents are shared with staff and, where appropriate, used to improve training, procedures, or equipment.
Monitoring, Review, and Policy Updates
Man with Van Ratcliff reviews this Health and Safety Policy regularly to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and in line with current legislation and industry good practice. We welcome feedback from staff and customers on any aspect of our safety performance.
This policy is communicated to all employees and is available to customers on request. By working together and following these principles, we aim to deliver safe, reliable, and professional removal services in every area we serve.
