Health and Safety Policy — Camden Man with Van

This Health and Safety Policy sets out the approach of Camden Man with Van and affiliated removal teams to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees, contractors, clients and the public in connection with rubbish clearance, waste collection and man-and-van services. The policy applies to all operational activities, including domestic and commercial removals, bulk waste uplift, skip-alternative services and ad hoc clearance jobs across our service area. It reflects the company’s commitment to meet legal obligations, industry best practice and practical risk control so that work is planned and carried out safely.

The company directors and management accept overall responsibility for health and safety and will ensure suitable resources are provided to support this policy. Responsibilities are allocated through a clear management structure so every driver, loader and office-based worker understands their role in preventing harm. Staff are required to follow safe systems of work, report hazards, and participate in training. Staff welfare and the safety of third parties encountered during rubbish removal operations are integral to our standards.

Risk assessment and method statements underpin every task. Before work starts, jobs are assessed for manual handling risks, traffic and pedestrian interaction, hazardous materials and access constraints. Where required, a documented safe system of work will be produced for higher-risk jobs. The company uses a hierarchy of control measures — elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative and personal protective equipment — to minimise exposure to hazards associated with removal services and waste handling.

Training, Competence and Communication

All drivers and loading staff receive induction training covering vehicle safety, correct use of lifting aids, safe loading and securing of loads, waste segregation and incident reporting. Refresher training is provided at regular intervals and when new equipment or processes are introduced. Competence is assessed through observed safe working practices and documented records. Communication about health and safety is maintained via toolbox talks, written notices and digital briefings so that operational crews are updated on hazards specific to each job.

Vehicles and equipment are inspected and maintained to reduce mechanical hazards. Daily vehicle checks include brakes, lights, securing mechanisms and load restraint systems. Powered equipment and manual handling aids are serviced according to manufacturer guidance. Drivers are instructed in safe driving practices relevant to waste collection and man with van operations, including secure loading to prevent shifting during transit and safe reversing procedures.

The policy requires specific controls for common industry hazards, which include:

• Manual handling protocols, safe lifting techniques and use of trolleys or hoists where appropriate.
• Procedures for handling sharps, hazardous household waste and contaminated materials.
• Traffic management and pedestrian safety measures at collection sites and when working on or near roads.
• Use of PPE such as gloves, hi-vis clothing, safety boots and eye protection where required.

Incident Management, Monitoring and Review

Accidents, near misses and unsafe conditions must be reported promptly so that corrective actions can be taken and lessons learned. The company maintains an incident log and investigates events to identify root causes and prevent recurrence. Where injuries occur, first aid arrangements are in place and staff are trained to respond effectively. Emergency procedures cover vehicle incidents, fuel spills and situations involving hazardous waste.

Regular monitoring ensures the policy is effective: supervisors carry out routine safety inspections, audits of vehicle checks and spot observations of working practices. Performance indicators such as incident rates, training completion and inspection findings are reviewed by management. Maintenance schedules and inspection records for vehicles, lifting aids and PPE are retained to demonstrate ongoing compliance and evidence of proactive asset care.

This policy will be reviewed at least annually and whenever there is a significant change in operations, legislation or after a serious incident. It is the intention of the company to continuously improve health and safety outcomes for all activities relating to rubbish removal and man-and-van transport. By embedding a culture of awareness, training and practical controls, Camden rubbish removal teams will deliver services that protect people, property and the environment while meeting statutory duties and customer expectations.

Responsibilities: Management will ensure policy implementation, employees must follow procedures, and supervisors will monitor compliance. Contractors engaged by the company must operate in accordance with these standards when delivering man-and-van or clearance tasks on behalf of the business.

Legal compliance is a minimum standard: the company will keep abreast of relevant regulations and adopt any enhancements required to maintain a robust safety framework. Insurance, licensing and waste handling documentation will be maintained as part of the company’s governance obligations and made available for inspection by appropriate authorities when requested.

All personnel are encouraged to contribute to health and safety improvements by reporting hazards, suggesting practical controls and participating in safety discussions. This policy is endorsed by senior management and represents a binding commitment to achieving safe, reliable and responsible rubbish collection and removal services across our operational area.