Health and Safety Policy — Harrys Man and Van

Harrys Man and Van is committed to maintaining a safe working environment for employees, contractors and clients. This health and safety statement defines the practical measures and responsibilities that guide our day-to-day operations. The policy applies to all services provided by Harrys removals, from local house moves to courier and delivery tasks handled by the Harrys van service. Our objective is to prevent accidents and occupational ill health by integrating safety into every task, vehicle journey and handling activity.

Scope and application are broad: the policy covers vehicle safety, manual handling, use of equipment, storage and transport of items, customer premises operations and safe loading/unloading. Everyone working with Harrys man & van must follow these procedures and report hazards. Management provides resources, while staff have duties to work safely and cooperate with risk controls. Harry's moving service culture encourages early reporting and active participation in safety routines.

Management commitment is essential and visible: senior staff will lead by example and ensure that safe systems of work are implemented and maintained. Specific responsibilities include:

• Risk assessment: ensure hazards are recognised and mitigated
• Training: provide induction and task-specific instruction
• Equipment: maintain vehicles and tools in safe condition
• Monitoring: review performance and update controls

Risk assessment and safe systems for Harrys removals

The company conducts routine risk assessments for every job type. These focus on vehicle stability, load security, manual handling tasks, access constraints and environmental factors such as weather or site conditions. Control measures include safe loading plans, use of lifting aids, seatbelt and vehicle checks, and restrictions on lone working when necessary. Risk control is proportionate and practical to ensure that the Harrys van service operates with minimal harm to people and property.

Training, equipment and personal protective measures

Staff receive induction training and ongoing instruction on safe manual handling, vehicle operation, secure loading techniques and customer interaction. Training is recorded and refreshed as required. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, high-visibility clothing and protective footwear is provided where tasks require them. Employees are encouraged to use the correct PPE and report any faults so replacements can be issued promptly. Emphasis is placed on ergonomic methods to reduce strain and injury.

Vehicles and equipment are inspected regularly and maintained to industry-appropriate standards. Pre-departure checks, load restraints, ramps and tail lifts are part of a documented checklist. Faulty equipment is taken out of service until repaired. These measures ensure that the Harrys man and van fleet remains reliable and safe for every operation.

Incident reporting and first response procedures are clear: any accident, near miss or unsafe condition must be reported without delay. Reports are investigated to identify root causes and to prevent recurrence. First aid provisions are in place for job sites and vehicles, and nominated first aiders are trained to respond. The emphasis is on timely care and learning, rather than blame.

Emergency preparedness includes clear arrangements for evacuation from client premises, breakdown support protocols and contingency plans for severe weather or other disruptions. Employees are briefed on emergency contacts and response roles during induction and refreshed during toolbox talks. The approach balances practicality with thoroughness so that the Harrys moving service can maintain continuity while protecting people.

Monitoring, review and continuous improvement form the backbone of this policy. Regular audits, vehicle inspections and staff consultations inform performance reviews and updates to procedures. The policy is reviewed periodically to reflect operational changes, emerging risks and feedback from the workforce. Harrys removals is committed to learning from experience and improving safety outcomes across the business.

Roles and responsibilities are distributed so that every person understands their part in safety management. Supervisors are responsible for job planning and compliance, drivers and movers are responsible for safe execution, and the leadership team ensures resources and oversight. Employees must follow instructions, use issued safety equipment and participate in training sessions.

Practical control measures include safe loading matrices, manual handling limits, designated parking and loading zones where possible, secure fastening of goods and the use of mechanical aids for heavy items. Regular communication keeps everyone informed of procedural changes and seasonal hazards. The aim is to embed safe working habits throughout daily operations.

This policy supports a positive safety culture for Harrys man & van activities: safe systems, competent people and continuous improvement. It is endorsed by management and applies to all activities carried out under the company name. By following these principles, we protect our staff, customers and the public while delivering professional moving and delivery services.