Roehampton Man with Van Health and Safety Policy

This health and safety policy sets out the commitments and practical measures adopted by Roehampton Man with Van to protect staff, customers and the public during all rubbish removal and clearance activities. The policy applies to every project and job undertaken by the man with a van rubbish service, including house clearances, garden waste lifts and bulky item removals. It explains responsibilities, safe systems of work and the standards we maintain to reduce risk while providing efficient waste and rubbish collection across our service area.

We recognise that a safe working environment depends on clear procedures and consistent behaviour. The man and van rubbish removal team is required to follow safe lifting techniques, vehicle loading protocols and traffic management practices to prevent injuries and damage. This document outlines risk-based controls and expectations, emphasising ongoing monitoring, incident reporting and continuous improvement. The policy is relevant to drivers, loaders, subcontractors and anyone engaged in operating or supporting our van-based rubbish collection services.

Scope and objectives

The objectives of this policy are to: maintain the health and safety of employees and third parties; ensure safe operation of Roehampton rubbish removal vehicles; reduce environmental harm associated with improper disposal; and ensure compliance with general safety principles. These aims are delivered through training, protective equipment, documented procedures and regular reviews. The policy supports the delivery of a reliable, compliant man with van rubbish service that protects people and property while handling a wide variety of waste types.

Responsibilities are allocated so that everyone understands their role. Key duties include:

• Management: provide resources, ensure training and enforce safe working systems for the man-with-a-van teams.
• Drivers: maintain vehicles, complete pre-shift checks and follow vehicle loading and securing procedures.
• Operatives/loaders: use correct manual handling techniques, wear appropriate PPE and report hazards immediately.
• All staff: report incidents, cooperate with risk assessments and follow safe routes for waste handling and disposal.

Risk assessment and control measures

Before any job, a simple risk assessment is conducted to identify hazards such as manual handling risks, sharp objects, hazardous materials, traffic interaction and confined spaces. Controls include using mechanical aids where possible, two-person lifts for bulky items, appropriate segregation of waste types and secure tailboard procedures for the van. The man with a van rubbish removal crew is trained to identify suspect materials (e.g., chemicals, asbestos-like materials) and to stop work and seek specialist advice if encountered.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and mandatory where hazards exist: high-visibility clothing, heavy-duty gloves, safety boots and eye protection. For specific tasks, additional PPE such as respiratory protection may be required. Vehicle safety includes load securing, regular maintenance schedules, safe loading heights and clear load distribution to preserve vehicle stability while transporting residential and commercial rubbish.

Traffic and public safety are managed by deploying clear signage, cones where needed and safe vehicle positioning to minimise obstruction. The team follows road safety best practices when operating near kerbs and pedestrian routes. All staff receive training in safe driving standards and vehicle checks, and the man-and-van rubbish removal service enforces limits on shift lengths to reduce fatigue risks.

Training and competence are central to this policy. Inductions cover basic health and safety essentials, manual handling, hazardous waste awareness and emergency procedures. Refresher sessions are provided periodically to ensure knowledge remains current. We keep records of training, competence assessments and licenses where required, and ensure that anyone driving or operating the van holds the necessary entitlement and skills for the task.

Incident reporting and emergency response procedures ensure that any injury, near-miss or environmental incident is recorded and investigated. Corrective actions are taken to prevent recurrence. In the event of an accident, first aid arrangements are in place and staff are instructed to preserve scene evidence until an investigation is completed. The man with a van rubbish service maintains an incident log and uses findings to improve risk controls and safe working practices.

Waste handling and environmental controls: waste is separated where required and taken to authorised facilities. The team is instructed not to transport prohibited items and to follow proper containment and labelling for potentially hazardous loads. Fuel handling, spill kits and secure storage of tools and materials reduce contamination risk during operations.

Monitoring and review: the policy is reviewed at planned intervals and following significant incidents or changes in operations. Regular site checks, vehicle inspections and audits of safety documentation support continuous improvement. Staff consultations and toolbox talks provide practical feedback, ensuring the man with van rubbish service remains responsive to operational challenges.

Commitment: Roehampton Man with Van is committed to creating a culture of safety where every individual understands their role and contributes to safe outcomes. This policy provides the framework for safer rubbish collection, effective risk management and reliable service delivery. It applies to all activities carried out by our man with a van teams and is supported by documented procedures and the ongoing commitment of management and staff.