Health and Safety policy
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, subcontractors, customers, and the general public. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with our removal and transport services and to continually improving our standards.
Our Health and Safety Objectives
Our main objectives are to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property during all moving and logistics activities. We aim to reduce risks through planning, training, supervision, and the proper use of equipment. Health and safety considerations are integrated into the way we organise and deliver every removals service.
Legal Compliance and Responsibilities
Camden Man and Van complies with applicable health and safety legislation and recognised industry best practice for removal and transportation work. Management is responsible for ensuring that safe systems of work are implemented, maintained, and reviewed. All employees and subcontractors share a responsibility to work safely, follow instructions, and report hazards or incidents without delay.
Each team member is required to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. Failure to follow safety procedures may result in disciplinary or contractual action.
Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work
We carry out risk assessments for our typical activities, including household and office removals, loading and unloading vehicles, handling heavy or awkward items, and operating in confined or shared spaces. For non-standard jobs, such as items requiring specialist handling or access through narrow stairways, additional site-specific assessments may be conducted.
From these assessments we develop safe systems of work, which may include the use of additional equipment, team lifting, route planning, traffic management at loading points, and time allowances to avoid rushing and unsafe shortcuts.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is a core part of our removals service. To reduce the risk of strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries, all staff are trained to:
Use proper lifting techniques, including stable footing, a straight back, and controlled movements.
Assess the weight and shape of items before attempting to move them.
Use team lifting for heavy or bulky items such as furniture and appliances.
Use appropriate handling aids, such as trolleys, skates, and lifting straps, where available and appropriate.
Staff are instructed not to lift or carry items that exceed safe limits or that they do not feel competent to move safely.
Use of Equipment and Vehicles
We ensure that our vehicles and any lifting or handling equipment are suitable for their intended use, properly maintained, and inspected at appropriate intervals. Only trained and authorised personnel may operate vehicles and equipment.
Drivers must carry out basic safety checks before each journey, including tyres, lights, mirrors, and load security. Loads must be evenly distributed and properly restrained to prevent movement during transport. Access steps, ramps, and tail-lifts must be used correctly and kept clean and free of obstructions.
Site Access, Loading, and Unloading
Before starting work at a property or business premises, the team leader will assess the access routes, identify any hazards such as uneven surfaces or low ceilings, and agree safe loading and unloading points. Where practical, we separate pedestrians and vehicles and maintain clear walkways free from trip hazards such as packing materials, tools, and loose items.
We take care when working near public pavements, shared driveways, and communal areas, and we place safety and courtesy above speed of completion.
Protection of Customers and the Public
Our duty of care extends to customers, visitors, and members of the public who may be affected by our operations. We aim to minimise disturbance and risk by controlling access to working areas, keeping doors and routes clear, and monitoring the movement of large items through shared spaces.
We will not leave vehicles or equipment unattended in a manner that could pose a risk. Where necessary, customers are advised about any temporary hazards so they can avoid unsafe areas during the removal process.
Training, Supervision, and Competence
All staff receive induction training covering general health and safety, emergency procedures, manual handling, and safe use of equipment. Refresher training is provided whenever procedures change or new equipment is introduced.
Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for ensuring that work is carried out according to our safe systems and that less experienced staff are given appropriate guidance and oversight. No one is required to undertake tasks for which they have not been trained or feel unprepared.
Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses
All accidents, injuries, near misses, and damage incidents must be reported promptly to management. We record and investigate these reports to determine root causes and to implement corrective actions. Lessons learned from incidents are shared with relevant staff and used to improve our procedures and training.
Welfare, Health, and Fitness for Work
We recognise that removals work can be physically demanding. Staff are encouraged to maintain good physical health, stay hydrated, and take rest breaks as needed. Anyone who feels unfit for work, including due to illness, injury, fatigue, alcohol, or drugs, must inform management and must not engage in driving or manual handling duties.
We do not tolerate working under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. Prescription medication that may affect concentration or physical performance must be disclosed so that suitable duties can be considered.
Continuous Improvement and Policy Review
Camden Man and Van is committed to ongoing improvement in health and safety performance. We review this policy regularly, and at least annually, or following significant changes in operations, legislation, or after serious incidents. Feedback from staff and customers is welcomed and used to refine our practices.
This Health and Safety Policy is endorsed by the company management and applies to all aspects of our removal and transport services.
