Health and Safety policy

Man and Van Soho Health and Safety Policy

Man and Van Soho is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, clients, 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, loading, unloading, and transporting goods, and to promoting safe working practices across all services we provide.

Our Health and Safety Commitments

We recognise our responsibility to comply with all relevant health and safety legislation and to work continually to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property. To achieve this, Man and Van Soho will:

Identify, assess, and manage risks arising from removal and transport work, including manual handling, vehicle movements, and work at clients premises.

Provide and maintain safe vehicles, equipment, and work systems appropriate for domestic and commercial removals.

Ensure employees receive appropriate information, instruction, and training to carry out their work safely and competently.

Promote a positive safety culture in which all team members understand their responsibilities and actively contribute to safe working practices.

Consult with staff on health and safety matters and encourage reporting of hazards, near misses, and incidents.

Review and update this policy and associated procedures on a regular basis or following significant changes in our operations.

Roles and Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for health and safety within Man and Van Soho rests with the company management. Management is responsible for implementing this policy, ensuring adequate resources are available, and monitoring performance.

Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for day-to-day safety on jobs, including checking that risk assessments are followed, equipment is suitable and in good condition, and staff are working in accordance with agreed procedures.

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. They must cooperate with the company in implementing this policy, follow safety instructions, use equipment correctly, and report concerns promptly.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Before starting a removal or transport job, a suitable and proportionate risk assessment will be carried out to identify potential hazards. These may include restricted access, heavy or awkward items, fragile goods, traffic exposure, and stairs or uneven surfaces.

Control measures will be selected and implemented to reduce risks, for example planning safe lifting routes, using additional crew for heavy items, using appropriate lifting equipment, and planning vehicle positioning for safe loading and unloading.

Staff must follow agreed safe systems of work, including designated lifting techniques, team lifts for heavier objects, and clear communication when moving large items in confined spaces. Unsafe conditions or practices must be reported and, where necessary, work halted until safety can be assured.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a core part of removal work and is a significant source of potential injury. Man and Van Soho provides training in correct lifting and carrying techniques, including assessment of load weight, shape, and stability before attempting a lift.

Where possible, mechanical aids such as trolleys, dollies, and lifting straps will be used to reduce strain. Heavy or awkward items will only be moved by suitably trained staff and, where required, with additional team members to ensure safe handling.

Employees are instructed not to exceed their individual physical capabilities and to avoid sudden or jerking movements. Any pain, strain, or near-miss incident related to manual handling must be reported without delay.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are essential to our removal operations and are maintained in a roadworthy condition in line with legal and manufacturer requirements. Regular inspections and servicing are carried out, and defects are reported and rectified promptly.

Only authorised and appropriately licensed drivers may operate company vehicles. Drivers must follow all road traffic laws, adhere to speed limits, and drive in a manner that prioritises the safety of passengers, other road users, and pedestrians.

Loads must be distributed and secured safely to prevent movement during transit. Doors, ramps, and tail lifts must be operated in accordance with training and manufacturer instructions, with particular care taken when operating near members of the public or in busy streets.

Client Premises and Public Safety

Our teams often work within clients homes, offices, and shared buildings, as well as in public areas when loading and unloading vehicles. We take all reasonable steps to minimise disruption and ensure the safety of occupants and passers-by.

Where necessary, clear walkways will be established, and appropriate signage or verbal warnings given to indicate moving loads or vehicle movements. Staff will take care to protect floors, walls, and fixtures from damage and to avoid creating trip hazards with equipment, packaging, or tools.

Particular attention is given to access routes, stairways, and entrances to ensure that they remain as clear and safe as possible throughout the move.

Training, Information, and Supervision

All new employees receive an introduction to our health and safety procedures, including manual handling, vehicle safety, and conduct at client premises. Further role-specific training is provided as required, and refresher training is offered periodically.

Supervisors monitor working practices on jobs to ensure that safety procedures are followed and provide guidance and correction where necessary. Staff are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification if they are unsure about how to perform a task safely.

Accidents, Incidents, and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, injuries, and near misses must be reported as soon as practicable. Incidents are recorded and investigated to identify root causes and to implement measures to prevent recurrence.

First aid provisions are made available, appropriate to the size and nature of our operations. Staff are informed of emergency procedures related to fire, evacuation, and serious accidents, both in vehicles and at client premises.

Where necessary, we cooperate fully with authorities and clients in relation to any incident that has an impact on health and safety.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Man and Van Soho is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly, taking into account operational changes, legislative developments, and feedback from staff and clients.

By maintaining high standards of health and safety in our removal and transport services, we aim to protect everyone involved in or affected by our work and to deliver a reliable, professional service throughout our operating area.