Health and Safety Policy for Barnet Removals

Barnet Removals is committed to maintaining the highest standards of health, safety and welfare for our employees, contractors, customers and members of the public who may be affected by our removal and relocation activities. This policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with packing, lifting, loading, transporting and unloading household and commercial goods.

Our objective is to prevent injury, ill health and damage to property by operating a safe, responsible and professional removals service at all times.

Management Responsibilities and Commitment

The management of Barnet Removals accepts overall responsibility for health and safety within the business. We ensure that appropriate resources, information, instruction and supervision are provided so that this policy can be implemented effectively across our operations.

Management will

Regularly review this policy and our working practices to ensure ongoing suitability and legal compliance.

Identify significant hazards relating to removal services and put in place proportionate control measures.

Provide clear leadership on health and safety standards and lead by example in day to day operations.

Investigate accidents, incidents and near misses to learn lessons and prevent recurrence.

Ensure that all staff understand their responsibilities and have the competence to carry out their roles safely.

Employee Responsibilities

Every employee of Barnet Removals has a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work.

Employees are expected to

Follow all health and safety instructions, procedures and training provided.

Use equipment and vehicles in accordance with training and manufacturer guidance.

Report hazards, defects, near misses and incidents to management as soon as possible.

Wear and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment where required.

Refrain from any horseplay, unsafe behaviour or misuse of equipment that could put themselves or others at risk.

Risk Assessment and Safe Systems of Work

Barnet Removals carries out risk assessments for key activities such as manual handling, working in confined or restricted spaces, operating in communal areas, loading and unloading vehicles, and working at height when accessing storage or large vehicles.

These risk assessments are used to develop safe systems of work and clear methods for completing tasks. Staff are briefed on these procedures and are required to follow them on every job. Where site specific hazards are identified, our team leader will assess the risk on arrival and agree appropriate control measures before work begins.

Manual Handling and Lifting

Manual handling and lifting activities are central to removals work and present a significant risk of injury if not properly managed. Barnet Removals provides manual handling training to all relevant staff, covering safe lifting techniques, team lifting, the use of trolleys and lifting aids, and the importance of assessing load weight and route safety before moving items.

Where practical, mechanical aids or additional staff will be used for heavy or awkward loads. Employees must not attempt to lift items that exceed their individual capability and must request assistance when required.

Vehicles, Driving and Road Safety

We are committed to ensuring that all vehicles used for removals are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition. Regular inspections, servicing and safety checks are carried out in line with legal requirements and manufacturer recommendations.

Only authorised and licensed personnel who have been assessed as competent may drive company vehicles. Drivers must comply with road traffic legislation, observe speed limits and parking restrictions, and plan routes to minimise risk, particularly in residential areas and busy streets.

Vehicles must be loaded securely, with loads evenly distributed and properly restrained to prevent movement during transit. Access ramps, tail lifts and other equipment must be used and stored safely.

Workplace and Client Premises Safety

When working at client homes, offices or other premises, Barnet Removals staff will take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of everyone present. This includes maintaining clear walkways, using warning signs where appropriate, and taking care not to create tripping or falling hazards with packaging materials, tools or equipment.

Special attention is paid to stairways, lifts, shared corridors, loading areas and building entrances. Where access is limited or potentially unsafe, the team leader will assess options and, if necessary, suspend work until a safe method can be identified.

Use of Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment

All tools, trolleys, lifting straps and other equipment used by Barnet Removals must be suitable for their purpose and kept in good repair. Defective equipment must be reported immediately and removed from service until repaired or replaced.

Where risk assessment identifies the need for personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety footwear or high-visibility clothing, this will be provided and staff must use it correctly. Training will be provided on the correct selection, use and care of such equipment.

Training, Information and Supervision

We recognise that effective training is fundamental to maintaining a safe removals operation. All new staff receive an induction that covers our health and safety policy, emergency procedures and job specific risks. Further role specific training is provided as necessary, and refresher training is given periodically or when working methods change.

Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for monitoring compliance with procedures on site, offering guidance and addressing unsafe behaviour promptly.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents and near misses occurring during our work must be reported to management as soon as possible. Records are maintained and reviewed to identify trends and areas for improvement.

Emergency procedures are in place for fire, serious injury, road traffic incidents and other foreseeable events. Staff are briefed on these procedures and must cooperate fully with emergency services and authorities when required.

Consultation and Policy Review

Barnet Removals is committed to consulting with employees on health and safety matters and encourages suggestions for improving safety performance. This policy is reviewed regularly and updated when required by changes in legislation, guidance or our operational practices.

By working together and following the principles set out in this policy, Barnet Removals aims to deliver a safe, reliable and professional removals service for all customers and communities we serve.