Health and Safety policy

Putney Man and Van Health and Safety Policy

Putney Man and Van is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, customers, contractors, and members of the public who may be affected by our removal and delivery activities. This Health and Safety policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with home and office moves, transportation of goods, loading and unloading, and related services.

Our objective is to prevent accidents, injuries, and work-related ill health by identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing sensible, proportionate control measures. Health and Safety is an integral part of our day-to-day operations and is a shared responsibility across the business.

Policy Scope and Responsibilities

This policy applies to all employees of Putney Man and Van, including permanent, temporary, and agency staff, as well as contractors and subcontractors engaged on our behalf. It covers activities undertaken at customer premises, on the road, at storage locations, and in any environment where our moving and transport services are provided.

The management of Putney Man and Van holds overall responsibility for Health and Safety performance. Managers and supervisors are responsible for implementing this policy, ensuring adequate resources are provided, and that safe systems of work are followed. All employees must take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others, follow training and instructions, and report hazards, near misses, or incidents promptly.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

We carry out regular risk assessments for our core activities, including manual handling, lifting and carrying, use of trolleys and moving equipment, vehicle loading and unloading, and work in and around customer properties. These assessments are reviewed periodically and whenever there are changes in processes, equipment, or locations.

Safe working procedures are developed based on these assessments and communicated clearly to all relevant staff. Employees are expected to follow these procedures at all times, to use equipment correctly, and to avoid taking unnecessary risks, particularly when working in confined spaces, stairwells, driveways, and shared access areas.

Manual Handling and Use of Equipment

Manual handling is a key element of removal work and presents a significant risk of strains, sprains, and musculoskeletal injuries. Putney Man and Van is committed to reducing manual handling risks by planning moves carefully, using mechanical aids wherever practicable, and ensuring that loads are shared appropriately.

All staff receive training in safe lifting techniques, team lifting, assessing the weight and stability of items, and identifying when an item is too heavy or awkward to move safely. Trolleys, dollies, straps, and other handling aids are maintained in good order and used in accordance with instructions. Staff are encouraged to speak up if they believe a task cannot be completed safely and to request assistance or equipment as required.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are central to our operations and must be operated safely at all times. Putney Man and Van ensures that vehicles are regularly inspected, serviced, and maintained in line with legal and manufacturer requirements. Drivers are required to conduct basic pre-use checks and to report any defects or concerns immediately so that appropriate action can be taken.

Drivers must hold the appropriate licence for the vehicle they operate and must comply with all road traffic laws, speed limits, and parking restrictions. Loads must be properly secured and distributed to prevent movement in transit, and doors, ramps, and tail lifts must be used safely and kept clear of obstructions. Drivers are expected to drive considerately in residential and commercial areas and to take extra care when reversing or manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Safe Working at Customer Premises

Moving services often take place in homes, offices, and shared buildings. We take care to protect the safety of customers, visitors, neighbours, and members of the public. When planning a job, staff assess the access routes, staircases, lifts, and parking arrangements to identify any hazards and to minimise disruption.

Protective coverings may be used to reduce slip and trip risks and to protect flooring. Walkways and exit routes are kept as clear as possible during loading and unloading. Items are stacked safely to prevent falls, and heavy or bulky items are moved using suitable techniques and equipment. Customers are asked to keep children and pets away from work areas while loading and unloading are in progress.

Training, Information, and Supervision

All employees receive induction training that covers our Health and Safety expectations, relevant procedures, and emergency arrangements. Additional role-specific training is provided for drivers, team leaders, and staff who use specialist equipment. Training needs are reviewed regularly and refreshed as necessary.

Supervisors monitor working practices on site and in vehicles, provide guidance, and correct unsafe behaviours. Information about risks and safe methods of work is communicated through briefings, instructions, and updates. Employees are encouraged to raise concerns and suggestions for improving safety.

Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment may be provided where risks cannot be adequately controlled by other means. This may include protective gloves, safety footwear, high-visibility clothing, and other items where appropriate. Staff are required to use PPE correctly, keep it in good condition, and report any loss or damage so it can be replaced.

Accident Reporting, Investigation, and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to management as soon as practicable. Records are kept in accordance with legal requirements. We investigate incidents to identify root causes and to implement corrective actions that reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Emergency arrangements are in place for incidents such as fire, injury, or road traffic collisions. Staff are briefed on how to respond, including raising the alarm, contacting the emergency services when required, securing the area, and assisting safely within the limits of their training.

Health, Welfare, and Fitness for Work

Putney Man and Van recognises the importance of employee wellbeing in maintaining a safe and reliable service. Staff are expected to present for work fit, rested, and free from the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that may impair their ability to work safely. Any relevant medical conditions that could affect safety should be reported so that appropriate adjustments can be considered.

Monitoring, Review, and Policy Updates

We monitor our Health and Safety performance through incident reports, staff feedback, and periodic workplace inspections. This policy is reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in law, industry best practice, and the nature of our services. Updated versions will be communicated to employees and made available to customers on request.

By following this Health and Safety policy, Putney Man and Van aims to provide a professional, reliable, and safe moving service for all customers and to protect the wellbeing of everyone involved in our operations.