Camden Man and Van Health and Safety Policy

Camden Man and Van is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, contractors, customers and members of the public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risk in all removal and transport activities, including domestic moves, commercial relocations and item collection and delivery.

Our aim is to prevent injury, ill health, property damage and environmental harm arising from our operations. Health and safety is an integral part of the way we plan, organise and deliver our moving and man and van services.

Legal Responsibilities and Commitment

We recognise our duty to comply with applicable health and safety legislation and industry best practice relating to removal and transport activities. Management at all levels are responsible for ensuring that safe systems of work are in place, that risk assessments are carried out and that appropriate control measures are implemented and maintained.

All employees and contractors working on behalf of Camden Man and Van are required to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. They must follow all safety instructions and report hazards, incidents and near misses without delay.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Before any removal or transportation work begins, relevant risks are assessed and the work is planned to minimise those risks. This includes identifying potential hazards at collection and delivery sites, such as restricted access, stairs, uneven ground, traffic, poor lighting or adverse weather conditions.

Where significant risks are identified, appropriate control measures are put in place. These may include the use of additional staff, specialist lifting equipment, vehicle positioning plans, traffic management, and agreed methods for handling particularly heavy, fragile or awkward items. Our safe systems of work are regularly reviewed and updated when equipment, processes or locations change.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling is a key part of removal work and is managed carefully to prevent injury. Staff are trained in correct lifting techniques, team handling, load assessment and the use of trolleys, dollies, straps and other aids. No employee is required to lift a load that they believe is unsafe or beyond their capability.

Items are assessed for weight, size, stability and route of travel before being moved. Where necessary, large or bulky items are dismantled, or additional personnel or equipment are provided. The layout of work areas is organised to reduce carrying distances, twisting, reaching and carrying on stairs wherever reasonably practicable.

Vehicle Safety and Driving Standards

Our vehicles are essential tools in the delivery of safe and efficient removal services. All vehicles used by Camden Man and Van are maintained in a roadworthy condition, with regular checks and servicing carried out in line with manufacturer guidance and legal requirements.

Drivers are responsible for ensuring vehicles are checked before use, including tyres, lights, mirrors, brakes and securing points. Loads are distributed evenly and secured correctly to prevent movement during transport. Driving is carried out in a professional and considerate manner, with full adherence to road traffic laws, speed limits and parking restrictions.

Drivers must not operate vehicles if they are unfit to drive due to tiredness, illness, alcohol, drugs or any other factor that could impair their judgment or performance.

Workplace and Site Safety

Many of our activities take place at customer premises, commercial sites and public areas. Our teams work carefully to protect both people and property. Passageways and routes are kept as clear as possible during moves, and customers are advised to keep children, pets and other occupants away from active work areas.

Where there is a risk of trips, slips or falls, such as when carrying items on stairs or over uneven surfaces, extra care is taken and, when necessary, alternative routes or methods are used. Protective coverings may be used to reduce risk and protect floors, walls and doors. Tools and equipment are stored safely when not in use to prevent accidents.

Training, Information and Supervision

All staff receive appropriate training for their roles, including induction training on health and safety, manual handling, safe loading and unloading, use of equipment, and emergency procedures. Additional training is provided when new equipment, vehicles or working methods are introduced.

Supervisors and managers monitor working practices, provide guidance and address unsafe behaviour or conditions without delay. Health and safety information is communicated clearly so that all team members understand what is expected of them and how to work safely.

Equipment, Personal Protective Equipment and Maintenance

Camden Man and Van provides suitable equipment to support safe moving operations, such as trolleys, sliders, blankets, straps and tools for dismantling furniture. All equipment is inspected regularly and removed from service if damaged or defective.

Where necessary, personal protective equipment such as gloves, protective footwear or high visibility clothing is provided and must be worn as instructed. Employees are responsible for looking after equipment and reporting any defects immediately.

Accident, Incident and Near Miss Reporting

All accidents, incidents, injuries and near misses that occur during our operations must be reported as soon as possible to a supervisor or manager. Accurate records are kept and investigated to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Learning from incidents is shared within the company to prevent recurrence and to continually improve our health and safety performance.

Welfare, Health and Wellbeing

We recognise that the physical nature of removal work can be demanding. Breaks are scheduled as needed, and staff are encouraged to speak up if they feel unwell, overly fatigued or unable to carry out tasks safely. Hydration, rest and appropriate work clothing are promoted, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Bullying, harassment or unsafe pressure to work beyond physical limits is not tolerated. Everyone has the right to stop work they consider unsafe and to raise concerns without fear of reprisal.

Continuous Improvement and Policy Review

Camden Man and Van is committed to continual improvement in health and safety. We review this policy regularly, and whenever there are significant changes to our operations, legislation or best practice guidance. Feedback from staff and customers is welcomed and used to refine our safe working methods.

By working together and following this Health and Safety Policy, Camden Man and Van aims to deliver reliable moving and man and van services while protecting the health, safety and welfare of everyone involved.